The Department of Science Services has cautioned that paper-wrapped fried chicken might have harmful substances from the wrapping paper.
In response to a social media report, Dr. Kanit Tapasa, spokesman for the department, explained the two types of pulp used in making paper: pure natural pulp and recycled pulp.
Dr. Kanit said that chemicals like sodium hydroxide and chlorine are used in making white pulp from pure paper pulp, and though most of these chemicals are removed during the washing process, some heavy metals may remain, left by water or engine oil used in production.
Pulp from recycled paper may contain residues of toxic substances from the de-inking process.
When chicken wrapped in paper is fried in hot oil, the heat may cause toxic substances like lead, cadmium, or mercury from the paper to be released into the chicken, even though the paper may be heat resistant and only catches fire at around 222oC, while the boiling oil's temperature is about 190oC, according to Dr. Kanit.
He suggested that consumers ask the fried chicken vendor about the type of paper used to wrap the chicken, whether it's cooking paper or suitable for hot food.
