Aluminum foil, plastic wrap and wax paper: do you know the difference?

If you cook daily or have taken a risk with a recipe at least once, you've realized that the success of a good dish depends on the quality of the ingredients, but also on the use of appropriate instruments, such as containers, spoons and measuring instruments. Other items that are also indispensable to help you in all stages of food preparation are plastic film rolls, parchment paper and aluminum paper, Is not it?

These three products have versatility in common, but the similarities stop there. Plastic film, parchment paper and aluminum paper have a different origin, property and application. At some point, they may even perform the same function, but the result will not be equivalent. So, if you routinely use them in the kitchen, but don't take into account the particularities of each recipe, you will be surprised by this text!

understand the difference

It is still in the production process that the distinctions between plastic film, parchment paper and aluminum paper are evident. The composition of plastic film, as the name suggests, is a type of plastic called polyvinyl chloride, better known as PVC. O aluminum paper, in turn, is produced by melting and reprocessing a solid aluminum block, pressed until its thickness reaches 0,5 millimeters. Butter paper is made from wood extraction. It is often confused with tracing paper, which is often used in drawings. And, in fact, the production process for both is very similar, but tracing paper receives a type of wax that makes it flammable and inappropriate for the kitchen.

As it was possible to perceive, the particularities in the origins of plastic film, butter paper and aluminum paper are also responsible for defining the different properties of each product. And it is they who determine the most appropriate application of these items in the preparation of recipes. This is the most important and tangible part for you, who buy the ready-made rolls. 

So which is the best product for each situation? Let's go:

1. Parchment paper

It has a non-stick surface, ideal for baking pasta recipes. You can place it between the mold and the dough and that way you don't need to grease it. With the parchment paper, the food also does not stick to the container and can be taken out of the mold more easily.

Butter paper is also a great “quick stopper” in the kitchen! Due to its firmer consistency, it can be used as a temporary funnel. To do this, just cut a piece of paper and roll it into a cone shape.

2. Aluminum foil

Temperature control is one of the main purposes of the aluminum paper. It is not by chance that it is the best ally when covering baked dishes, such as fish and potatoes. Thus, you hardly miss the texture of the food and the recipe is ready much faster.

Another ideal time for you to use this type of paper is when transporting food. It keeps the snack warm for longer and, if placed next to an ice pack, it keeps the temperature cold. 

It is very important to use the aluminum paper in the right way! In hot recipes, use the shiny side in and the matte side out. In cold dishes, do the opposite.

3. Plastic film

It is a self-adhesive material, that is, it sticks to the applied surface very easily. This makes plastic film perfect for sealing food that has already been removed from its original packaging, as it prevents contamination. 

Plastic film is also a good ally in preserving food at room temperature, especially fruit, as it prevents them from becoming dark and dry. In addition, it is the best alternative to refrigeration, as it avoids strong smells in the refrigerator.

Plastic film is so flexible that its use goes beyond kitchen activities, helping you with various household tasks. Discover some of them in this article with the 5 ways to use plastic film you never imagined!

A golden tip!

You should always use plastic wrap, parchment paper, or aluminum paper Of Quality. This is important to avoid food contamination and, consequently, the emergence of diseases, as well as to ensure that all material is actually used, avoiding extra expenses. And to protect your health, count on Alpfilm. Check out our online store for combos of aluminum paper and plastic film and enjoy: shipping is free for purchases over R$100,00!  

 

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