Wax Paper Vs Parchment Paper What Makes Them Different

Baking and cooking rely on different types of custom wraps, especially at the commercial level. If you are a restaurant owner or you have a small cafe, a deli store, etc. you must know wax and parchment paper sheets. These papers look similar to each other which is why when comparing wax paper vs parchment paper many get confused. 

If you do not have an idea about the different properties of the paper then you may have to face cooking mishaps such as burning or uneven cooking. To avoid these issues let’s understand “Is parchment paper the same as wax paper?” Let’s discuss the different aspects of the packaging. 

What Is Wax Paper?

Wax paper wholesale has non-stick properties and is used to wrap food, cover countertops, in arts and crafts, etc. The wax coating makes it impermeable which can be used to wrap foods high in fat, you can also use it as an alternative to custom food basket liner. 

What Is Parchment Paper?

Parchment paper is a heat-resistant option because it is coated with silicone. Silicone tolerates high temperatures and prevents the burning of the paper. Due to this feature parchment sheets are frequently used in baking. 

Difference Between Wax Paper And Parchment Paper

Kraft paper makes the base of both the papers but the surface coatings are different from each other. Apart from this, at the time of manufacturing wholesale parchment paper is treated with sulphuric acid that imparts excellent non-stick and heat resistant properties. Some of the common differences between the two custom wraps are: 

Coatings 

Parchment is coated with food-grade silicone that gives remarkable resistance to grease and high temperatures. You can easily use it to bake different products as it is oven-safe. On the other hand, wax-coated paper is a suitable option for moderately hot foods and cold food items. If you use paper-coated with wax in the oven then the paper may catch fire. 

Manufacturing 

The manufacturing processes of both of them also differ to a significant extent which is why both show different characteristics. Softwood fibers are the only common thing in both the custom food wrapping paper, but the pulping process, and the chemical, and mechanical treatment of wax and parchment paper rolls are entirely different. 

Temperature Tolerance 

Due to silicone coating, parchment paper has a high-temperature tolerance. On the other hand, custom wax paper for food is used only for moderately hot foods because the wax layer can melt. Parchment sheets can tolerate a temperature of 450°F without igniting. If you use wax paper at this high temperature, the paper may catch fire and burn. 

Environmental Impacts 

Both the papers are disposed of, which is why they contribute to pollution. The wax coating does not allow the wax paper to compost easily unless you have used beeswax or soy wax. On the other hand, the silicone coating on parchment paper can be slightly compostable and if you opt for unbleached parchment sheets then it can be composted to reduce environmental harm. 

Similarities Between Wax Paper and Parchment Paper

Although there are many differences between the papers, there are some of the properties that you can find in both of them. You can get your paper customized with the logo of your brand and use it to promote your brand. Some other features are similar in both the sheets such as: 

1. Non-Stick Properties
2. Moisture Resistance
3. Use in Food Storage
4. Convenience

So if there are many similarities then how can we identify the best option for us? The main thing that you must have to avoid is the use of wax paper sheets under high temperatures. Apart from this, you can use coated sheets in the below-mentioned cases: 

• Wrapping Food
• Layering
• Covering Countertops
• Microwave Cooking

On the other hand, the common uses of parchment paper sheets are: 

• Baking
• Roasting
• Parchment Packets
• Rolling Dough

Uses Of Custom Parchment And Wax Paper 

When someone niggles over the question “Is wax paper the same as parchment paper” then the answer can be provided simply by looking at the uses of the paper. Though you can use them interchangeably, not always. Some of the uses are: 

Use CaseWax PaperParchment PaperBakingAvoid using it in the ovensYou can use it in baking because it does not meltFood WrappingPerfect for wrapping sandwiches, cookies, and candies.Suitable for wrapping foods but less common than wax paper.Rolling DoughCan be used to roll out the dough, but may tear easily.Great for rolling dough; prevents sticking and tearing.Non-Stick Surface for CookingIdeal for layering between food items to prevent sticking.Great for lining pans, especially when roasting or baking.MicrowaveSuitable for use in the microwave to cover food or line containers.Can be used in the microwave, but parchment paper is less common.StorageEffective for storing cookies and candies, keeping them separated.Not ideal for storage due to its higher cost and thinner material.Heat ResistanceAvoid high temperature The best option for high temperatures

Conclusion! 

Wax and parchment paper are two different kinds of wraps that are used frequently in the preparation and presentation of foods. By understanding the key differences between the two papers you can avoid any kind of potential mishap. For the best quality and affordable custom printed papers, contact waxpapers and enjoy excellent services!