Is aluminum foil harmful to our health?
Aluminum foil itself is not harmful to our health. However, as a precaution, highly acidic products or foods containing large amounts of salt should not be stored or grilled in aluminum foil. Acids or salts - such as those from sliced apples, gherkins, feta cheese or sausages - can release aluminum ions from the foil, which may transfer (migrate) into the food. This is an aspect that the manufacturer clearly points out on the packaging. The aim is to ensure that the migration limit of five milligrams per kilogram of food set by the European Council as a precautionary measure is not exceeded.
Aluminum foil: the all-rounder in the home
Aluminum foil is an indispensable feature in our kitchens: the packaging material effectively protects against light, oxygen, moisture and bacteria. Aluminum foil is a so-called "absolute barrier" compared to other packaging materials such as cling film or baking paper. Due to its properties, aluminum foil can extend the shelf life of food, thereby making a significant contribution to avoiding food waste. The thickness of the aluminum foil here can be only 0.006 mm, in other words, even thinner than a human hair. Food waste is a serious problem of our time: 50% of food waste in Germany in 2017 could have been avoided, according to a study by Germany's leading market research institute Gesellschaft für Konsumforschung (GfK) and the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture - inter alia, by ensuring optimal storage conditions and appropriate protection of food.
