Well, it probably makes sense to start by assuming that the grease resistance in the sheet is "natural" rather than chemically treated -
known as FCT or Fluoro-Chemical Treatment. In order to explain this this we need to understand the science a bit more of how
grease resistance is obtained.

The most expensive way is by refining fibre over and over. The end product is known as greaseproof. The more you refine the fibres the greater the barrier you produce and the more transparent the paper. Some mills use chemicals to enhance the transparency so you must always ask "Is the transparency chemical or mechanical?" A greaseproof quality sheet has a very closed surface on two sides after refining thus providing a superior barrier and hence is the most expensive.

Natural greaseproof paper does not any have chemical treatments or coatings. It acquires its greaseproof properties during the pulping process with its fibres becoming so tightly entwined that the spaces between them are smaller than a grease molecule.

A less costly way to obtain grease resistance is a combination of refining and chemical treatment. The lower refining produces a sheet that is more open providing less of a barrier. The mills will chemically treat the paper to close up the surface and provide resistance. Transparency is slightly less than greaseproof and being lower cost makes for a much better value sheet for many customers.

The lowest cost way of providing resistance involves minimal refining. You can easily pick this up by looking at the formation of the sheet. FCT is flood coated on the surface to create the barrier and resistance. Transparency is not an issue in most cases for this sheet as it is typically marketed in lower value applications.

Following recent press reports regarding the use of fluorinated substances in food packaging including baking paper, pizza boxes and food wrapping I am writing to make it clear that all our paper is certified compliant with EU 1935:2004 on materials and articles intended to come into contact with food by the mill of origin.

For customers concerned about the use of fluorochemicals in paper, we advise that they purchase from our extensive range of 'Natural Greaseproof Paper'.

We hereby certify that no fluorochemicals of any kind are added to our Natural Greaseproof Paper during the manufacturing process, according to our knowledge based on information from suppliers.

The superior grease barrier in Natural Greaseproof Paper is achieved by intensive mechanical beating of the fibres to create a dense
cellulose structure. It is NOT achieved by chemical means.

Stuart Whelan
Managing Director

There are around 3,000 different known types of PFAS, classified as:

• Persistent
• Bioaccumulative
• Hazardous or toxic

PFAS degrade very slowly and can be transported very long distances – they have been found in penguins in Antarctica. The level of PFAS in both the natural environment and human beings will increase since these chemicals bioaccumulate. That is, they stay in our bodies and our passed to our children.

Fluorochemicals are hazardous. Bad effects from PFAS are for example, liver toxicity and disruption of our lipid metabolism, endocrine system and immune system. In addition, correlations between fluorochemicalss and neonatal toxicity and death have been shown as well as tumors in multiple organs. Fluorochemicals have also been associated with the cause of testicular and kidney cancer.

WE DO NOT HAVE PHASE OUT PFAS WE USE NATURAL GREASEPROOF PAPER

We offer a range of papers to suit all budgets and virtually every possible use including a number of specialist substrates. For a few users where grease and moisture resistance is not important then our budget 34gsm paper maybe sufficient.

For most users our 39gsmand 50gsm natural greaseproof papers will be ideal. For a truly organic look and feel our 50gsm natural greaseproof paper is available in a Kraft version.

Specialist papers include our exclusive 65gsm Meat Saver Paper which is available in four colours and ideal where the wrapping of fresh meat and poultry is involved. It’s also great for wrapping cooked burgers.

For users seeking a paper with enhanced grease and moisture barriers plus resistance to heat then please ask us about our latest 90gsm natural greaseproof paper which siliconised on one side. It should be more than up to the job!

Whatever use you have for printed greaseproof paper, we probably have a paper for you . We are always ready to discuss your
requirements, so please give us a call on 01844 344 231.