Health for humans, animals & plants

Aluminum trays from mass catering and other food fillers, including restaurants

Final Report of Priority Action A-030-18

The aim of the focus action was to check and evaluate whether and how much aluminum is released into the food when aluminum trays and containers are used. Twenty-nine aluminum trays and the foods filled in them were examined.

  • One sample was rejected because the release of aluminum into the food was significantly above the recommended specific maximum level of 5 mg/kg food (-simulant)
  • The remaining samples complied with the maximum value both in the food and in the cups tested with a food simulant

According to a recommendation of the Ministry of Health of 27.1.2016 on the "Use of aluminum in commodities", cookware and objects made of uncoated aluminum should not be used for the preparation and storage of highly acidic or highly saline foods. Previous reviews by AGES and the results of a German research project have shown that a lot of aluminum is released during "cook and chill" (preparation and professional, rapid cooling down) and when keeping food warm.

Last updated: 18.07.2022

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