Why Silicone-Coated Baking Paper Is Replacing Chromium-Based Release coating: A Closer Look at Food Safety & Compliance

In the world of food preparation and baking, parchment paper plays an invisible yet essential role. It keeps food from sticking, reduces cleanup time, and ensures even cooking. But did you know that the type of non-stick coating used on that paper can have serious implications for food safety and environmental impact?

Let’s talk about Chromium-based release coating —a once-common coating—and why silicone-coated parchment paper is now the industry standard, especially in Europe.

What is Chromium-based release coating?

Chromium-based release coating isa chemical compound made by reacting long-chain fatty acids (like stearates) with trivalent chromium (Cr³⁺). This coating was historically used to provide a cost-effective non-stick surface, particularly in food service and industrial baking applications.

While trivalent chromium is not nearly as toxic as hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺)—which is known to be carcinogenic—Cr³⁺ is still a heavy metal, and its use in direct food contact raises flags.

Chromium-based release coating: What’s the Risk?

Chromium, in any oxidation state, is classified as a heavy metal due to its atomic properties and potential toxicity. Even though Cr³⁺ is considered essential in trace amounts, it's not risk-free, especially under high temperatures or in acidic environments where it could transform into more harmful forms.

From a regulatory standpoint, the European Union applies the precautionary principle and does not authorize chromium-based coatings in food contact materials. Only substances explicitly listed under EU Regulation 1935/2004 and BfR Recommendation XXXVI are permitted.

Type of Chromium	Authorized	Comments
Chromium (III)	Yes	Compliance with migration limits (≤ 0.4 mg/dm²)
Chromium (IV)	No	Prohibited (no detectable presence allowed)

Chromium-based release coating: Why It’s Falling Out of Favor

The reasons for the decline are multifold:

• Lower performance vs. silicone-coated papers

• Not approved for food contact in the EU

• Contains heavy metals

• Non-compostable and difficult to recycle

• Cannot be safely incinerated without specialized facilities

In other words, it's a sub-standard coating with poor release that no longer fits in a world striving for safer food packaging and greater sustainability.

Why Silicone-Coated Parchment Paper Is the Better Choice

Silicone ultimately comes from sand, or more precisely, from silica (SiO₂), which is the main component of sand. The unique combination of silicone properties makes it versatile across all sectors, ranging from construction to healthcare and consumer goods. Silicone-coated baking paper is a safer, sustainable, and compliant alternative, now standard in the EU and North America. Here's why it’s winning:

1. Food Safety Compliance

• Fully compliant with EU Regulation 1935/2004

• Accepted by the FDA for food contact applications

• Approved by BfR Recommendation XXXVI

2. Thermal Stability

Silicone coatings hold up under high baking temperatures (up to 230°C / 446°F) without releasing harmful substances.

3. No Heavy Metals

Siliconized papers contain no chromium or other metals, eliminating the risk of metal migration or toxic byproducts.

4. Improved Environmental Profile

Unlike traditional heavy-metal coatings such as chromium, which are neither recyclable nor compostable and persist in the environment, silicone-coated papers like Primabake are engineered for end-of-life compatibility. Thanks to their ultra-thin, non-toxic coatings, they are not only  recyclable but also certified compostable by leading international bodies. This makes them a far more responsible choice for both industrial food production and circular waste management systems.

Quick Comparison

Feature	Chromium-based release paper	Silicone-Coated Paper
Release Properties	Poor	Excellent
Contains heavy metals	Yes (Cr³⁺)	No
EU food-contact approved	No	Yes
Compostable	No	Yes
High-temp resistance	Limited	Excellent
Environmental profile	Problematic	Favorable

Final Thoughts

As global awareness of food safety and environmental responsibility grows, retailers, converters, and consumers alike are turning toward safer alternatives. In the EU, Chromium-based release coating papers are no longer used for food contact applications, and North American brands are increasingly moving in the same direction

The choice between Chromium-based and silicone-coated parchment isn't just a technicality or performance—it's a matter of health, sustainability, and regulatory integrity.

In a time when consumers demand transparency and safety from the brands they trust, switching to silicone-coated parchment paper is a small but meaningful step in the right direction. After all, in the kitchen—and in business—what you don’t see can make all the difference.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

Alizée Degorce

Email: alizee.degorce@avere.pro 

Phone: +33 698961146

For more information, visit primabake.com

About Papeteries du Léman: Papeteries du Léman (PDL) is a leading specialty paper manufacturer, known for its high-quality, eco-conscious products such as Primabake baking paper. With a century of papermaking expertise, PDL is committed to driving sustainable innovation and crafting reliable solutions for professionals in the culinary and packaging industries. Learn more at primabake.com.