Öko-Test has tested paper straws
17.6.2024
Translation: machine translated
Öko-Test tested 20 paper straws from well-known manufacturers for harmful substances and usage properties. Only half of them were convincing.
Paper straws are generally considered to be better for the environment than their plastic counterparts. Eko-Test has now scrutinised 20 paper straws.
A total of 13 white or unbleached paper straws and seven coloured straws were tested.
Many of the paper straws tested were found to contain harmful substances. Others snapped as soon as they came into contact with drinks. One of the products even discoloured. Nevertheless, around half of the products tested can be recommended: Two products received a "Very Good" rating, while eight others scored a "Good" rating.
The winners
In first place were the black and white paper straws from Metaltex and the white straws from Förnyande, a brand of the furniture store Ikea. Both products were free of harmful substances and proved to be stable.
The straws from Duni and Champ, among others, scored "good" in the test.
Six tested variants received a "satisfactory" rating.
The losers
The straws from Hema and Rossmann, among others, were found to contain perfluorinated and polyfluorinated chemicals (PFAS). The straws from Rossmann's own brand Alouette also stood out in terms of their flavour, were less stable and had a high benzisothiazolinone content. Increased aluminium levels were detected in Hema. Too much aluminium can lead to nerve and kidney damage in humans, for example. These models received the grade "Poor".
The "Bofa Eco Tableware straws" from Prolinx also contained too much aluminium and benzisothiazolinone. Benzisothiazolinone is considered harmful to health and the environment. The Bofa Eco straws also stained strongly in acidic drinks. They therefore landed in last place with an "unsatisfactory" rating.
If you don't think much of paper straws anyway: You can also find other sustainable alternatives to plastic straws in our shop. For example, there are drinking straws made of glass or metal, including from the test winner Metaltex.
This type of straw is doubly environmentally friendly: they are not made of plastic and you can use them several times.
A true local journalist with a secret soft spot for German pop music. Mum of two boys, a dog and about 400 toy cars in all shapes and colours. I always enjoy travelling, reading and go to concerts, too.