The German Aluminium Industry Association (GDA) welcomes the statement „Reducing aluminium intake can minimise potential health risks“ published by the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) on 18 November 2019.
The statement, which summarises the current data situation on the Basis of various national studies summarises, does not present any entirely new findings, but clearly shows where the main potentials for the Reduction in intake of aluminium compounds by the consumer.
Major sources of aluminium compounds
According to the BfR, consumers mainly consume aluminium compounds about food and cosmetic products on. Foods such as spices, tea, products containing cocoa, chocolate and pralines, pulses, nuts, muesli and oilseeds as well as food additives play a particularly important role here. In the case of cosmetic products, antiperspirants, sun cream, toothpaste with a whitening effect and lipsticks are the main sources of intake.
An increased Pick up aluminium compounds from uncoated aluminium containers or foils, which is also addressed in the BfR statement, only becomes relevant if users or consumers against the legally prescribed instructions for use which are either printed directly on the packaging of the products or in another suitable form. There it is explicitly stated that uncoated aluminium containers or foils not in contact with acidic or salty products may be brought.
Consumer education by GDA and manufacturers
The GDA and the manufacturers of uncoated aluminium consumer goods such as meal trays, grill trays and household foil organised in the association have already implemented a great deal to prevent the improper use of these products and to ensure that they are used correctly. more consumer education to provide.
The GDA has developed a Special publication on aluminium and health on its website (http://www.aluinfo.de) and the consumer platform all about aluminium (http://www.allesueberalu.de), where all health-related topics are dealt with and made available to consumers. concrete recommendations for action be given.
With particular regard to uncoated consumer goods made of aluminium, the GDA supports the proposal submitted at European level. standardised labelling proposal. This consists of a catchy pictogram and a text with country-specific examples of which foods do not belong in uncoated containers or films. The labelling can be downloaded free of charge from the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) can be downloaded.
For the application of Aluminium trays for Cook & Chill containers, For example, the GDA has developed a guideline for containers that are used for communal catering for senior citizens or children to ensure that these containers are used properly.
These measures by the aluminium industry are intended to make a lasting contribution to reducing unnecessary consumer intake of aluminium compounds from uncoated consumer goods in line with the BfR statement.
Without the Consumer involvement However, despite all the measures taken by the industry, no significant progress will be possible. Because only with a responsible consumption of the relevant foodstuffs and cosmetics and proper use uncoated aluminium products can lead to the reduction in the intake of aluminium compounds desired by the BfR.
Source: GDA
