There are different types of greaseproof papers in the market that may look the same but actually are totally different products. Some examples of those include:
Butter paper (sometimes called as sandwich paper) does not have a non-stick surface, so it should not be used for baking. Instead it is ideal e.g. for protecting the chopping board when preparing for instance fish, raw meat, onion, chili or beetroot, or for packaging and wrapping fatty and moist food for instance when going for a picnic.
Waxed paper (or wax paper) actually has wax on it, and it has a non-stick and water resistant surface. However, it is not heat-resistant and should not be used in the oven. NOTE: Baking paper can be used in most applications that call for wax paper. However, the reverse is not true, as using wax paper may cause smoke in the oven and affect taste.
Baking paper – also known as bakery paper or parchment paper, as it is often called especially in the US – is greaseproof paper that is used for baking and cooking. Baking paper is the multi-purpose kitchen helper that can be used for several different applications. It has a non-stick surface which prevents food from sticking. They are also highly heat-resistant and can be used in temperatures up to 220°C.
SAGA baking paper is a unique innovation and contains more properties than traditional baking paper. It is a perfect partner for all kinds of baking, cooking (even in boiling water) and food preparation applications. SAGA baking paper ensures that food does not stick on trays, cake forms or dishes, and because no oil is needed to coat them, it also means easier dishwashing. SAGA baking paper can be also used for decorating, grating and rolling out – it can even be used in the microwave. Both sides of SAGA paper are siliconized and non-stick, so you can use the paper both ways. To guarantee maximum food hygiene and environmental performance, SAGA baking papers are white. They are also biodegradable and compostable.
Butcher paper is a type of kraft paper that butchers wrap the meat with. It is also used as a baking sheet, for smoking meat, or for wrapping food.
If you’re new to cooking and saw butcher paper in the market, you might be curious about how to use it.
Can you put butcher paper in the oven? Let’s find out.
- Can You Use Butcher Paper in the Oven?
- Is It Safe To Use?
- Is Using Butcher Paper in the Oven Cost Effective?
- Is It Similar to Parchment Paper?
- Why Use Butcher Paper in the Oven
- FAQs
- Summary
Yes, butcher paper can be used when cooking meat in the oven. However, butcher papers might stick to the meat juice and ruin the flavor.
Other types of butcher paper: Pink butcher paper, used to wrap brisket and smoke meat. White butcher paper, used as a sandwich wrapper or table cover. Wax paper is used as baking sheets in pastries.
Is It Safe To Use?
Yes, butcher paper is safe in the oven. Butcher papers are made of caustic soda and wood pulp, making them stronger and heat resistant, but they might burn with direct heat contact.
Other paper types with wax can’t withstand high temperatures like inside the oven. This type of paper is only ideal for meals inside the fridge. Always note the fire hazard factors before using butcher paper as part of your cooking method.
But can you broil in an oven without a broiler?
Is Using Butcher Paper in the Oven Cost Effective?
The short answer to this is yes. Butcher paper is cost-effective in various ways, especially for grilling steaks. Instead of using foil, which is more expensive, utilizing butcher paper in the kitchen will save you more money.
You can buy butcher paper at an affordable price, plus it is easier to find in any grocery store or market.
There are other types of butcher paper for different dishes; one is pink butcher paper. It is an unbleached butcher paper that is heat resistant and can withstand direct contact with high heat, unlike bleached butcher paper.
Is It Similar to Parchment Paper?
No, butcher paper and parchment paper are two different types of paper that have a variety of uses in the kitchen. But for butcher paper vs parchment, it’s butcher paper that is oven safe.
Parchment paper is non-stick, making it ideal for lining baking and cake pans. It is also perfect for wrapping chickens and fish to make sure that it doesn’t stick to the pan.
In contrast, butcher paper doesn’t have a non-stick surface but is thicker than parchment. It is ideal for wrapping briskets or other meat you want to cook. But why doesn’t parchment paper burn?
Why Use Butcher Paper in the Oven
Pink butcher paper is the type of paper that can protect the food from high temperatures when cooking.
You can use it instead of aluminum foil to wrap ribs or meat in the grill. The steam quality that it can provide provides extra tenderness to the steak.
Bakers also prefer butcher paper for their baked goods because it is thicker than other papers and the most affordable paper on the market. But can toothpicks go in the oven?
It Helps Retain Moisture
When grilling, it is better to use pink butcher paper because it is moisture resistant. The moisture from smoked meat is trapped inside and doesn’t wet the outer part of the paper. That’s why the white one is used in wrapping sandwiches.
Unlike the regular butcher paper that sticks to the meat juice, pink butcher paper is like a foil that locks moisture and adds tenderness to the meat.
It Can Speed Up Cooking
The smoke in the steam helps in cooking the food thoroughly. Locking steam and smoke from the grill inside the paper wrap is a big help for cooking.
For smoking meats, butcher papers are better because the porous state of paper lets the smoke penetrates and speeds up the cooking process with the internal temperature as the heat source.
How To Use It
If you want to cook meat, just wrap the paper around the beef and place it on a grill. Parchment papers are best used when cooking in pans because they don’t stick to the surface.
For baking, place the paper on the baking pan before the cookies. Either foil or butcher paper, the wrapper should cover the food in any cooking process.
Read: How Long To Use Oven After Using Easy Off
FAQs
Is butcher paper flammable?
Yes, butcher paper is flammable because it is made of paper pulp. It could quickly burn when in contact with fire.
The white tissue-like paper wrapped in sandwiches is a type of butcher paper that is very thin and could catch flame easily. Butcher papers used in baking are also flammable.
Can you use butcher paper as baking paper?
Yes, butcher papers are also baking paper. But since they are a bit thicker, bakers use parchment paper for its non-stick properties. Other chefs use wax paper in cooling food but not in heating.
Summary
The type of butcher paper that is safe and can go in the oven with our food is pink butcher paper. It is also ideal for grilling food because it is stronger and thicker. Still, always use precautions.
The other food papers like parchment paper and wax paper are not ideal when you want to cook meat in high heat or direct fire.
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Most parchment paper is rated for use at temperatures no higher than 420 to 450 degrees. But we occasionally recommend using this liner for bread and pizza baked as high as 500 degrees.
Phone calls to several manufacturers put any safety worries to rest: Using parchment at higher-than-recommended temperatures does not release noxious chemicals, and the paper will not burn.
But there’s no question that it can darken and turn brittle. For pizza and other flatbreads that bake in 20 minutes or less, the parchment doesn’t turn brittle quickly enough for it to be an issue.
In this case, we’d recommend seeking out paper rated for use at the highest temperature available (our favorite parchment paper from King Arthur Flour is rated for up to 450 degrees, and did not become overly brittle or tear in prolonged high-heat applications) and placing a strip of folded aluminum foil (4 or 5 inches wide) beneath the parchment when baking. The foil had no detrimental effect on the color or texture of the bread we baked, and it made for easy removal of the loaves, even after the parchment itself had become brittle.
Parchment paper can darken and turn brittle if baked at high temperatures, but it won’t burn or release noxious chemicals. If baking it for longer than 30 minutes, seek out a paper that’s rated for use at least 450 degrees.
Choosing between butcher paper vs parchment paper? Which of the two should you use when baking, or creating barbeque and grilled dishes
Many people confuse them, as they look alike, but knowing their differences can give you a great advantage in the kitchen. Read on and find out which of the two is best to use in every cooking situation!
Difference Between Butcher Paper vs Parchment Paper
Let’s set the record straight — is parchment paper the same as butcher paper? No, they are not. Though both are great papers to use in the kitchen, they have a few contrasting qualities that matter depending on what you are making.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the differences between parchment paper vs butcher paper to help you differentiate the two:
- Material – Both are plant-based products. However, butcher paper is from wood pulp, while parchment paper is from cellulose fibers (cotton and flax) and coated with silicone to become paper.
- Appearance – Butcher paper comes in different colors and is thick, sturdy, permeable, and breathable. Parchment paper, on the other hand, is a much thinner waterproof kitchen paper that usually comes in brown or white color.
- Texture – Butcher paper is stickier than parchment paper because it is more absorbent and sticks on moist or wet food. In contrast, parchment paper has a non-stick texture because of its coating, making it easy to peel when used for baked goodies, and is greaseproof.
- Uses – Both kitchen papers can be used in storing, wrapping, and roasting food. However, butcher paper for grilling and smoking meat, and parchment paper is best used in baking.
- Heat Tolerance – Though both are flammable and may set alight after having direct contact with a heat source, parchment paper has a higher heat tolerance than butcher paper, so parchment can remain unaffected by heat slightly better than butcher paper.
- Pricing – Neither are expensive, though parchment paper is slightly cheaper than butcher paper.
- Availability – You can purchase both in supermarkets, groceries, or online stores. But parchment paper is usually more widely available than butcher paper.
What Is Butcher Paper?
We may know butcher paper as a meat wrapper used by butchers (thus the name) in your local meat shops or when you visit a farmers market. It is a breathable material and does not retain excess moisture, which explains why you can also use butcher paper in cooking, wrapping, storing food, and even arts and crafts!
Because it’s thick and does not tear easily, you should use butcher paper for smoking and grilling meats like beef brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and fish recipes. Bear in mind that before cooking, ensure that they are 100 percent made from paper and are unwaxed. Waxed butcher paper can be highly flammable.
If you’re wondering where can you buy butcher paper, it is usually available in local groceries and supermarkets. You can also purchase it online as most BBQ/kitchenware shops sell this paper.
5 Types of Butcher Paper
You may notice different colored butcher paper when purchasing it in the market. Each color has its own set of qualities and specific uses.
- Brown butcher paper – This is an unbleached and unwaxed type of butcher paper. We often mistake this for Kraft paper in arts and crafts lessons. You can use this butcher paper for smoking meat like .
- White butcher paper – A butcher paper used to wrap sandwiches and meat products. This uncoated type of butcher paper is also great for smoking meat as its permeable material allows smoke to penetrate through the paper, giving your meat a rich smokey flavor.
- Pink/Peach butcher paper – Pink or peach butcher paper has a hue that perfectly complements meat color and masks its juices. It has breathable material, since it has no coating, making it also good for smoking meat.
- Treated pink/peach butcher paper – This is a butcher paper treated using a sizing agent that serves as another layer of coating, making this paper more durable. It is also a bit more pricey than other butcher papers because it is premium grade and water-resistant. However, its coating causes it to catch fire easily.
- Gardenia butcher paperUsually green in color, this butcher paper type is generally used in wrapping poultry and fish meat. It is good in protecting the meat from outside moisture.
Why Use Butcher Paper?
Wondering why you should use butcher paper? We’ve listed some of its advantages to help you decide.
- Durability – Butcher paper is thick and sturdy. It does not easily tear and has high heat resistance (can withstand temperatures up to 420 degrees Fahrenheit), which is why you can use this even in your oven or smoke food on your
- Prevents soggy food – Most types of butcher paper are untreated or uncoated, making their surface permeable and super absorbent. Since it doesn’t trap moisture, using this kitchen paper for cooking gives your food a crusty outer exterior and prevents sogginess.
What Is Parchment Paper?
Roasted baby carrots on a parchment paper
Parchment paper (also known as bakery paper) is a silicone-coated type of paper made of cellulose materials from trees and other plant types. Unlike freezer and wax paper, parchment paper does not contain paraffin, which is why it is safe to use for cooking and baking.
We commonly use parchment paper as a cooking or baking liner. You can also use it in wrapping food like sandwiches or your favorite Subway BMT sandwich. And because of its highly effective moisture resistance, you can use this to catch meat drippings while roasting which you can use in making sauces and gravy. Parchment paper is so versatile, that you can also use it to wrap and cook thigh and belly meats, or soft vegetables. You can easily find them in local supermarkets, grocery stores, baking supply shops, or online.
Though versatile, we highly recommend you to not use parchment paper directly on hot grills. You can cause a fire because it is paper and fairly thin. That said, you can use parchment papers for grilling but not the same way as you would with butcher paper. You should wrap your food in parchment paper and position it away from the fire, somewhere without the charcoal. This can help your food to still cook while reducing the risk of burning.
2 Types of Parchment Paper
- Unbleached parchment paper – Also identified as brown parchment paper, this parchment paper tends to be more expensive as it is preferred by people who want organic products. Why? Because it does not undergo chemical procedures.
- Bleached parchment paper – It is a cheaper type of parchment paper that comes in white color because of chlorine bleaching. That said, you can use bleached and unbleached parchments interchangeably for any cooking purposes. It will not affect the quality or the taste of your food.
Why Use Parchment Paper?
- Less permeable – It is waterproof, which is why it is excellent for locking in moisture while cooking your food.
- High heat resistance – Like butcher paper, it also has a high heat resistance (up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit) because it is made from cellulose fiber. However, note that you can’t use it for grilling as it will burn once it comes into contact with any direct heat source like fire or ignited
- Non-stick surface – One reason why bakers prefer parchment paper is because it is easy to separate from your baked goodies. You can use this paper as a liner when baking your favorite cake or when creating pastries and other baked treats like this tiger butter brownie
- Eco-friendly – Parchment paper is also eco-friendly like butcher paper, mainly because both are from biodegradable materials. However, even though it is not as thick and sturdy as butcher paper, parchment paper is waterproof compared to other butcher paper types, making it more recyclable as you can reuse it as a cookie liner up to 3 times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Though you can use butcher paper and parchment paper interchangeably, there are other butcher paper substitutes that you can choose from, like wax paper, freezer paper, and aluminum foil. For wrapping and storing food, use wax or freezer paper. For cooking, grilling, and roasting meat and vegetables, use aluminum foil.
What can you substitute for parchment paper?
Though butcher paper can be a great alternative to parchment paper, you can also use other alternatives depending on the cooking situation. When baking pastries or cakes, you can use a silicone pad or just grease the pan you will use.
You can also use wax paper if you just need an alternative wrapper for your subs and sandwiches. However, you can opt for aluminum foil for other cooking purposes like roasting meat, poultry, or fish.
Can you put parchment paper in the microwave? How about butcher paper?
Yes! Both paper types are microwave safe since they have high heat resistance. Both will not burn unless they reach their heat limit or come into contact with a direct fire source.
Is wax paper the same as parchment and butcher paper?
Like butcher paper and parchment paper, wax paper is the preferred paper type when it comes to wrapping and storing food as it keeps moisture, making them fresh and not soggy.
However, wax paper for baking or other cooking purposes is a big no-no as it has a much lower heat tolerance. Coming into contact with heat (directly or indirectly) will melt its wax or, worse, catch fire.
Butcher Paper vs Parchment Paper: Which Is The Best?
The answer to this question depends on your purpose. Butcher paper and parchment paper possess qualities you can effectively use to your advantage in the kitchen. If you want breathable paper that does not lock in moisture and is absorbent, go for butcher paper. But if you want to save your meat drippings as sauces and gravies, or keep your food fresh and moist, go for the less permeable parchment paper. So, what are you cooking? Answer that question, and let it help you choose wisely. Happy cooking!
Although they’re visually similar, the two shouldn’t be used interchangeably.
Photo: Lucy Lambriex / Getty Images
Both parchment paper and wax paper are kitchen must-haves for people who love to cook and bake. However, despite looking quite similar, there is a distinct difference between the two. One is oven safe and can be used to line cookie sheets and cake pans, while the other is helpful for rolling out dough and wrapping leftovers. When heat isn’t involved, parchment and wax paper can be used interchangeably, but there’s one key factor that sets the papers apart when it comes to using them in the oven.
Parchment is a non-toxic, grease- and moisture-resistant paper specially treated for oven use, and can withstand temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. “I use parchment 100 percent of the time when I cook, even in instances where wax paper would suffice,” says chef Ronna Welsh, owner of Purple Kale Kitchenworks cooking school in Brooklyn, N.Y. “This is to eliminate having two rolls of cooking paper in my kitchen, when just one will do.”
When to Use Parchment Paper
Parchment paper is very versatile and can be used for everything from lining baking sheets to wrapping fish, and other dishes that are cooked en papillote. In instances when you’d reach for wax paper, parchment paper will also suffice.
Despite its versatility, it’s commonly used in instances where high heat is necessary because its silicone construction keeps it from melting in the oven and over the stovetop. Use it to line cake pans and baking sheets, as a soft lid for slowly reducing sauces, and as a liner for blind baking pie crust.
On the other hand, wax paper is used for cooking or baking-related tasks that don’t involve heat. “Wax paper is more like craft paper for your kitchen,” says Welsh. “It is also non-stick, but heat intolerant.” Because wax paper has a thin coating of wax on both sides, it can melt and catch fire at high temperatures.
When to Use Wax Paper
Wax paper is often used for baking tasks that don’t require heat. Due to its non-stick nature it’s especially useful when rolling out dough. You can also sift dry ingredients—think flour, sugar, and cocoa—over a piece of wax paper and use it to funnel the contents into your mixing bowl.
“Also, use it to line containers or gift tins and create templates for decorative designs—like letters for chocolate piping or stencils for powdered sugar,” Welsh says.
Additionally, the paper is also useful when wrapping leftovers. Use it to safely store cheese, butter, and more without worrying about those items sticking to the paper like they might with plastic wrap or foil.
Butcher paper vs. parchment paper; are you wondering which is the best option for your meals? Though they might be similar in appearance, don’t use them in the wrong place and ruin your meals!
Depending on the cooking method and the food you’re cooking, it’s important to choose the right type of paper. So, let’s skip the chat and walk through this article for a better understanding!
Read this article right away to become the pitmaster of your family!
Don’t Mistake These Papers!
You should avoid using the wrong paper since they’re similar in appearance.
Many people still mistake butcher paper with parchment paper, not to mention that there are multiple types of other papers that look like them. But for the best BBQ foods, identifying these two is a must.
Since both of them can be used in BBQ and grilled dishes, people usually take the nearest roll for their meals. However, due to their construction and chemicals, they should be used for different foods and cooking methods.
You may notice wrapping meat with parchment paper will make them a bit soggy in the outcome of cooking. On the other hand, using butcher paper to wrap soft vegetables would bring you a mess due to the stickiness of paper.
Now, before comparing butcher paper and parchment paper, you may want to understand better what you’re in hand with.
What Is Butcher Paper Exactly?
As the name has told everything, butcher paper is made initially for butchers to wrap their meat. But technically, they are a type of kraft paper, which is heavier-duty and usually made from FDA-approved food-grade wood pulp (1).
Butcher paper appears in various colors, and there are multiple types of them for you to choose from.
Colored Or Bleached Butcher Paper
One of the most common butcher paper, the dyed ones, is usually used as decoration or wrapping finished foods, such as sandwiches or french fries. The white butcher paper would also take part in this group since they’re the bleached ones.
Pink Butcher Paper
The other varieties got their color using dyes, while the ones in white use bleach, which may not be so safe for cooking. The pink or pinkish-brown butcher paper, also known as peach paper, has the original color of food-grade wood pulp.
Pink Treated Butcher Paper
As an advanced version of pink butcher paper, the treated ones have a certain resistance to moisture, thanks to the sizing agent that has been added within the production process. Using this type of butcher paper can retain the juice of meats better than other types.
Appearing in a greenish shade of color, gardenia paper is less common than other types of butcher paper, yet it gives the best treatment to the moisture of your foods. Gardenia paper provides a balanced level of water resistance and breathability.
Butcher paper is originally made for butchers to store their meats.
The Most Notable Advantages Of Butcher Paper
Butcher paper is a well-known material among pitmasters, so what makes them stand out? Have a deep look into the advantages:
High Density
Since butcher paper is heavy-duty, you can find that it has a certain strength and tear resistance, allowing it to stay on heat for a particularly long time.
Safe For Health
As mentioned before, pink butcher paper is made from FDA-approved food-grade wood pulp without any dyes, so it is safe to use for multiple purposes of cooking.
Allow The Meat To “Breathe”
Usually uncoated, butcher paper allows the meat to evaporate on heat while grilling, making them a perfect option for smoking methods. If you ever intend to have a go at some simple smoker recipes for novice chefs, you should consider getting butcher papers.
Highly Affordable
It is an inexpensive and easy-to-find paper; thereby, you can do anything you want with it, such as decoration, storing meats, or even as a fire starter.
Easy To Use
As a heavy-duty type of paper, butcher paper is extremely easy to use since you don’t have to worry about accidentally tearing or ruining it. This advantage makes it an ideal tool for wrapping meats.
Use pink butcher paper to wrap your smoke brisket for a mouthwatering meal.
Some Facts About Parchment Paper You May Not Know
Also known as baking sheets, parchment paper is made from cellulose fibers and coated with silicone. Though this kind of paper is more familiar to bakers since it’s a must-have item for ovens, you may be surprised knowing its usage in BBQ.
Bleached Parchment Paper
Parchment paper usually appears in white color, but as any white paper, it got its color by bleaching. Thereby you should make sure you’re using the coated side of the paper to prevent chlorines from attaching to your foods.
Brown Parchment Paper
White parchment paper will turn brown after cooking, but I’m talking about the unbleached one – originally light brown – the natural color of cellulose fiber. To permanently eliminate chlorines from your meals, consider using this one.
Parchment paper is another name of baking paper – a familiar kitchen item of bakers.
The Advantages That Made The Fame Of Parchment Paper
Well-known for its variety of usage, parchment paper must have some advantages among other cooking paper. Keep scrolling to see what makes them famous.
Waterproof
Thanks to the construction and waxy coating, parchment paper has a certain level of waterproofness, making it a perfect choice for wet foods.
Grease Resistance
Many people use parchment paper to layer the oven tray before grilling greasy foods for easier cleaning afterward.
Prevent Foods From Sticking
Usually appearing with waxy or silicone coating, parchment paper is perfect for wrapping or lining wet foods.
Recyclable
As a conclusion of the points above, parchment paper can easily be recycled several times. After cooking, simply wipe it with a wet paper towel to remove the left-over pieces or liquid, let dry, then you can reuse it.
Parchment paper is a familiar item to all households.
Parchment Paper Vs. Butcher Paper – Similarities And Differences
To erase your confusion between butcher paper and parchment paper, and to better understand what makes them different, let’s keep walking through this article! After this, you’ll know if butcher paper can be the best-matched alternative for parchment paper, or vice versa.
Similar Features Between Butcher Paper And Parchment Paper
Thanks to the high density of construction, butcher paper gets the high heat resistance, which makes it able to be used for griller or oven. And though parchment paper has a lower density, the cellulose material saves it from the heat.
However, since the wet paper is notable for can’t be burned, you can still go over their heat limit if you’re cooking juicy or greasy foods.
Parchment paper and butcher paper can be used to grill hot dogs.
Extremely Versatile
With high density and high heat resistance, you can use both parchment paper and butcher paper for multiple purposes.
Besides cooking methods such as baking, grilling, or smoking, you can also use these papers as decorative items. They can absorb some of the excess oil while being a liner for deep-fried dishes, thanks to their porousness.
And by their tear-resistance, you can also use them to store food, which will be discussed later in this article.
You can use parchment paper to decorate your deep-fried dishes!
Some Striking Differences Between Butcher Paper And Parchment Paper
Through the previous section, I’m positive that you may recognize the differences between parchment paper and butcher paper by their appearances. Thereby, I will skip that and take a more detailed look into the differences in their features.
Now that you’ve got all the similarities and differences between butcher paper and parchment paper. But to choose the right roll of paper for your foods, keep scrolling for a better understanding.
Material
As mentioned above, butcher paper is often made from FDA-approved food-grade wood pulp, while parchment paper is produced by cellulose fiber; this feature is the leading cause of other differences between these two papers.
Depending on your needs, there are many options of butcher paper for you to choose from – with different colors and qualities. Parchment paper is less in variety since they only have bleached and unbleached types.
Thickness
Thickness is one of the most visible differences to identify between these papers. Butcher paper tends to be thicker since they’re a heavy-duty kind of paper.
Parchment paper is also less porous than butcher paper due to the cellulose construction. Therefore, parchment paper tends to be thinner.
Tear Resistance
Though both of them are tear-resistant, butcher paper is denser and can withstand heavy-duty work better than parchment paper. Even with the porose construction, wet butcher paper is not easy to be tattered.
Production Process
Due to the different materials of the paper, they’re produced with different additives. However, both sizing agents in butcher paper and silicone in parchment paper are proved to be edible (2). So it’s unnecessary to compare them in this case.
Moisture Resistance
Butcher paper tends to be absorbable, especially the non-treated rolls. In contrast, parchment paper is notable for moisture resistance.
While grease can’t find its way to stay on parchment paper, the absorbance of butcher paper makes it easily accumulated with grease.
Stickiness
This is an obvious difference between these papers since parchment paper is famous for its non-stick feature. However, you can also find less sticky butcher paper these days.
Recommended For
Due to their construction, butcher paper is quite sticky and is non-waterproof. You’re supposed to use them for dry food such as brisket, pulled pork, back ribs, and fish dishes.
Parchment paper is more versatile since it can be used for almost all food types. Besides the baked goods, some foods are preferred to cooking with parchment paper, such as thigh meats, belly meats, and soft vegetables.
Wrap your brisket with butcher paper during the smoking process for a fantastic bark.
Flammability
Butcher paper has a chance to burn if the heat is over 420oF, while the heat limit of parchment paper is 450oF (3).
After all, they’re still paper and tend to be flammable. However, due to the construction material, parchment paper can easier withstand indirect fire, while butcher paper sometimes can be used as a fire starter.
Though the price of both papers is reasonable, butcher paper tends to be cheaper than parchment paper in general.
Recyclability
As mentioned before, you can easily clean your parchment paper since they’re water-resistant, while butcher paper is barely recyclable.
These papers are different, don’t use the wrong one and ruin your meals!
Choose The Right Roll For Each Specific Uses And Needs
Butcher paper is more familiar to the pitmasters, while parchment paper is a handy kitchen tool for the baker. So depending on the cooking methods and what you’re planning to cook, let’s see the suggestions for the best meals.
Parchment paper is more preferred in the oven over butcher paper. Actually, these two types of papers are both oven-safe thanks to their high heat resistance. However, in most cases, butcher paper is the least favorite choice compared to foil or parchment paper.
First, it’s easier to clean after cooking with parchment paper rather than butcher paper. Since it’s inconvenient to clean the oven, many people layer their oven tray with a parchment sheet before cooking to make the work less time-consuming.
In wrapping, you will also not need that many sheets if you’re using the parchment paper to trap the moisture and juice inside the foods. In contrast, butcher paper is more breathable and sticky to wet foods.
Parchment paper is oven-safe; see how to use it for baking!
Watch this video: How to Use Parchment Paper for Baking
https://youtube.com/watch?v=yFqtU9uTD30%3F
You can’t tell much difference between these two paper types in grilling. However, the waterproofness of parchment paper turns out to be a massive disadvantage for grilling methods.
Since wrapping food with this paper will over-trap the juice and moisture, your meals will end up more like steamed food rather than grilled; hence they often contain a certain amount of bleach, which can leach dioxin when cooking with an open flame or high heat.
Therefore, if you insist on using parchment paper for grilling, make sure to use the unbleached ones to avoid health issues. I’m certain you don’t want your scrumptious grilled delicacies to end up being too dangerous to consume.
I would recommend using pink butcher paper for the best-grilled dishes. However, you may want to ensure that the roll of paper you’re having is made from grade-food wood pulp and doesn’t coat with wax; there are types of butcher paper that are not meant to be used for food.
After all, you also shouldn’t forget that these tools are still paper, so make sure just to keep them on the side of the flame; otherwise, they’ll catch on fire before your food is cooked. Notorious for the flammability, butcher paper can be used as a fire starter as well.
You can wrap potatoes with pink butcher paper during the grilling for a mouthwatering meal.
Watch this video: How To Grill Baked Potatoes Wrapped In Butcher Paper
https://youtube.com/watch?v=cmxqziM9I_M%3F
Butcher paper is one of the handiest items to the pitmasters, and they especially use it for smoked meals. Thanks to their construction, butcher paper can crutch your meats on the griller and allow them to “breathe” rather than parchment paper.
If you’re a fan of BBQ dishes, you may have heard of the Texas Crutch. For this method, wrap your meat with pink butcher paper after it has reached the desired temperature. The paper will keep the moisture and juice while continuing to make a wonderful bark.
While smoking may take you 8 – 12 hours, some pitmasters comment that this is an excellent solution to reduce the time of this process.
But you can also use parchment paper in the same method if you want less smoky flavor and trap even more juice. So due to the taste that you want, you’ll just have to pick the right one to become the pitmaster of your family.
Watch this video to know more:
Watch this video: A tutorial to wrap brisket with pink butcher paper
https://youtube.com/watch?v=DjI0S0ZmRfc%3F
The answer for these storing methods might be trickier since you can use both parchment paper and butcher paper to wrap your foods and put them in the freezer for long-term storage.
Once again, the name tells everything; butcher paper is meant to be storing meats, whether raw or cooked. In the old days, butchers used this paper to keep meat fresh for the short term.
If you plan to store bread, cookies, or whatever foods that need to maintain moisture, use parchment paper. If your paper is only one side coated, make sure to wrap them with the coated-side in so that your food won’t stick to the paper, and you can label your packages.
In other words, the best methods to store brownies, bread, cookies, etc. will usually include parchment paper. That’s why I’ve pointed out several times before that parchment paper is truly a baker’s best friend.
However, for the best storage method in the long term, I recommend you to use freezer paper, which is a lookalike of parchment paper but made specifically for the freezer and coated with wax or polyethylene.
You can use butcher paper to store your meats for both the long and short term.
Other Things You Can Do With Parchment Paper And Butcher Paper
Besides cooking, both parchment paper and butcher paper are significantly various in uses such as preparing food or decoration.
For decoration, butcher paper is preferred since it’s denser and has many colors. Another common use of butcher paper is a substitute for wrapping gifts. You can also draw on it as an actual artwork, thanks to its absorption.
For other uses with food, such as wrapping or serving, I recommend using parchment paper instead. Many fast-food chains use parchment paper to wrap their burgers so that the oil won’t attach to your hands while eating.
Just like kraft paper, you can use butcher paper to wrap gifts!
If there’s anything still bothering you about the differences and usages, erase it with some of the most asked questions about parchment paper and butcher paper.
Can I substitute parchment paper with butcher paper?
In most cases, the answer is yes since parchment paper can apply to almost all food types and have higher heat resistance; you can use it as a substitute for butcher paper and vice versa.
Save smoked meals for an exception because butcher paper is more preferred in this method.
Can I use both sides of parchment paper?
Yes. Both sides of parchment paper are equally moisture resistant. So it makes no difference for using.
Does the color of butcher paper matter when it comes to cooking?
Maybe. The color of butcher paper can tell the quality of it sometimes, such as pink for the unbleached ones, or green for the gardenia type. However, you can still use other colors as a substitute without making too many differences in the final result of your dish.
Is parchment paper the same as freezer paper?
Do not mistake these types of paper; they’re not the same. The coating material of freezer paper is wax or plastic; hence the paper can store foods better in the freezer but should not be heated.
Can I substitute parchment paper with wax paper?
No. Wax paper is thick paper coated with paraffin on both sides. Since paraffin wax is not a health-friendly material when heated, you should only use wax paper to prepare foods prior to baking them. It’s best to use this paper with cool dishes.
Can parchment paper be used for microwaving?
Yes. Most parchment paper is made microwave-safe; however, the same thing may not go well with butcher paper since it has a chance to start a fire.
Did You Found The Winner For Your Dishes?
Well, it’s hard to define the winner between butcher paper and parchment paper. But I’m positive that you have got all the needed information to pick the right rolls for your meals.
References
- National Archives. 2021. Differences between Parchment, Vellum and Paper.
- Bioresources.cnr.ncsu.edu. 2021. Edible additives & cellulosic paper :: BioResources.
- Fireproof Depot. 2021. What Temperature Does Paper Burn/Ignite/Combust? (Explained).
Table of Contents
A few weeks ago, we wrote about the perfect technique for creating mouth-watering brisket. One of the steps we talk about is wrapping your meat in butcher paper, as it helps lock in moisture while your brisket reaches its final target temp. But what are some other uses for butcher paper, and are there substitutes that you already have in your kitchen that work just as well? We will give you the low-down on different wrapping techniques and how butcher paper, parchment or foil can be used on the grill.
Butcher paper is made from wood pulp using the Kraft process. This technique retains the cellulose in the wood, making the fibres stronger. The word Kraft is German and means “strength,” The fibres in the paper are typically larger than your standard printer paper. The paper can have a slippery surface that contains juices when wrapping raw meats or fish. It is 100% food safe and is the best choice for wrapping food when storing or smoking.
The reason it’s the preferred choice for wrapping meats like brisket or pork shoulder is because it is tough enough to retain moisture in your meat while it climbs past its stalling point without losing the crisp bark on your meat. It is still paper, so it does let steam vent out, so you don’t boil your meat, but it doesn’t let all of the moisture out. The result is a fall apart brisket with the perfect blackened crust. Without wrapping your meat, you can end up with dried-out meat that is chewy and leathery.
Butcher paper can burn up on a scorching grill. So, while it is ideal for smoking, butcher paper shouldn’t be used for cooking at temperatures higher than 450˚F (232˚C).
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Parchment paper is found in most kitchens, and it does have many uses in the oven and on the grill. It’s a great option for baking things like cookies or bread since it has a non-stick surface. It’s also useful for grilling items like vegetables or fish. This is because the treatment on the parchment fully traps the steam to lock in moisture and cook your food faster. Note, don’t confuse parchment paper for wax paper, as it has a wax coating applied to the surface, whereas parchment paper is treated in a bath of sulfuric acid, which gives it its non-stick, grease resistance and resistance to moisture.
However, it’s not an ideal choice for smoking meats like brisket. This is because the paper will lock in too much moisture and ruin the texture of your bark. It can also leave the centre of your meat soggy as it ends up boiling in its juices.
Parchment paper can also burn up on the grill, so it should be avoided for high heat grilling. Anything over 450˚F (232˚C) will burn up the paper.
Aluminum Foil
Aluminum foil is highly versatile on the grill because of its heat and moisture resistance. Wrapping your meat in foil is commonly referred to as the “Texas Crutch,” ensuring juicy flavour and texture. This is because the foil traps all of the moisture and fat from your meat so that they’re reabsorbed by the meat when it is taken off to rest. Using foil can reduce the overall cook time and prevent your meat from drying out. The problem that can arise when using foil is that you can end up with overly tender meat that’s stringy or mushy because it essentially boiled in its juices. On something like a brisket, it can ruin the crusty bark you’re aiming for.
So, foil isn’t so great for brisket, but it is excellent for other meats like ribs or steaks that you want to rest for a few minutes after pulling from the grill. It’s also great when cooking items at high temperatures, such as baked potatoes, since it won’t burn up at higher temperatures. It’s also suitable for use as a liner when cooking extra greasy items on the grill, making clean-up easier.
Attention, clever cooks! Wrap your smoked meat in butcher paper for extra tenderness and moisture.
Once you give this simple method for making delicious smoked meat a try, you won’t be able to stop making it.
I consider butcher paper to be a necessity because of all the different ways it can be put to good use around the house. Use it for DIY projects, food preservation, or even t-shirt printing!
But if you are in a rush and don’t have any butcher paper on hand, you can still smoke the ideal pork roast right this second.
Parchment paper is an attractive substitute for butcher paper. It’s a healthy option that mimics the pore structure of butcher paper in that it’s permeable. If you don’t have any butcher paper on hand, you may use a paper bag instead. For sublimation purposes, Kraft paper can be used instead of butcher paper.
Parchment paper is an excellent choice to use in the place of butcher paper.
Because of its inexpensive price and the ease with which it may be utilized, it has actually become a more popular option than butcher paper.
Because it does not require any further preparation or tools, putting it to use is a very straightforward process.
The adaptability of parchment paper is one of its most notable qualities.
Because it is both thin and flexible, it may be used in place of butcher paper to wrap food items such as sushi rolls and sandwiches. This makes it an excellent alternative to butcher paper.
In addition, you may use parchment paper to line baking sheets or frying pans. Both of these uses are possible with this versatile material.
You don’t need to worry about using this in the microwave or on the cooktop because it can withstand high temperatures in the oven.
The fact that parchment paper comes in a variety of colors means that you may select the shade that corresponds most closely to the requirements that you have.
It makes perfect sense to put aluminum foil at the very top of this list.
When wrapping food for cooking, baking, freezing, or reheating, aluminum foil is a very useful material to have on hand.
It is also possible to keep it among conventional foods such as cereal or chips.
Aluminum foil is flexible and resilient.
This makes it simple to fold food into tightly packed storage containers as well as simple to store away leftovers in their respective containers.
In addition to this, aluminum foil is very resistant to tearing and ripping.
You may use it repeatedly without having to worry about having to replace it in a short amount of time.
Aluminum foil is a common item found in kitchens everywhere due to its long shelf life and versatility.
Because it is, in almost every circumstance, superior to butcher paper, you won’t have many occasions on which to make use of this wrap.
Butcher paper can also be replaced with wax paper, which is another excellent alternative.
It is also quite reasonably priced, which makes it an appealing alternative for people who are operating under a financial constraint or who need to replenish their supply on a regular basis.
However, wax paper is notoriously difficult to slice through.
Before beginning the cutting process, it is necessary to arrange it on a flat work surface.
When doing so, you should also make use of a box cutter or knife that is in good condition.
Why? When using dull blades, the wax paper can easily be torn or ripped.
Wax paper is typically white in color, and it has blue lines running across it at regular intervals. In terms of its overall design and look.
You may also have it in brown if you want to go for a design that is more in line with nature.
Wax paper has a low density and a low thickness, making it a good substitute for butcher paper.
Kitchen Towels
Instead of butcher paper, you can use a kitchen towel.
They are not as widely available as parchment paper, yet they perform just as well in the kitchen.
Towels from the kitchen are handy for many things, including wrapping presents, scrubbing the oven, and drying bread.
Use a clean kitchen towel to wrap a baked good like a pie or cake as a present, then secure the package with a twist and a bow (if necessary).
Towels for the kitchen come in handy in many ways, including covering dishes before placing them in the oven.
When shopping for kitchen towels, it’s important to think about factors like absorbency, durability, and ease of cleaning.
If you want to know which side of your towel is best for soaking up liquids, look for a directional pattern.
Towels that can stretch and hold their shape will serve you well when cleaning.
Using thin kitchen towels might cause them to rip after a while.
In addition, since you’ll be staring at your towel all day, it should have a design that appeals to your sense of style.
Baking Mats
In recent times, an increasing number of individuals have become aware of the benefits that baking mats may provide. They are excellent for keeping food from adhering to baking sheets, and they are also able to endure the varying temperatures that might occur in an oven. However, the fact that these materials allow air to pass through them makes them suitable for smoking meat.
By encasing a beef cut of moderate size in a baking mat, you can ensure that it takes on an adequate amount of smokey flavor without suffering significant loss of moisture.
Baking mats, on the other hand, maybe rather pricey, and most households do not even have a single one. If you don’t like the texture, though, it makes for a great substitute for butcher paper.
Also, keep in mind that it may not be possible to completely wrap some of the more substantial chunks of meat. Therefore, you might need to engage two people in such circumstances.
Paper Bags
Paper bags are a typical method for transporting food, which is why you may find them in both quick-service restaurants and grocery shops. Because of their sufficient thickness, they are also an acceptable alternative to butcher paper in emergency situations.
Paper bags are not as durable as any of the other available options; yet, they are an excellent choice for low-heat, expedient smoking settings. In addition, as long as you apply indirect heat to them, they will function without a hitch.
However, you should be aware that not all paper bags may be used for the safe handling of food. As a result, you should be sure to confirm that the one you’ve chosen is approved by the FDA.
Additionally, paper bags should only be used for smoking recipes that won’t last for a lengthy amount of time. It may catch fire if it is subjected to an excessive amount of heat, even if it is just moderate.
Plastic Wrap
When it comes to freezing food, plastic wrap is a fantastic alternative to butcher paper. It prevents meals from getting freezer burned by adhering securely to them. In addition to this, you should have no trouble locating it in any supermarket you visit.
The substance known as polyvinyl chloride, which is a chemical compound, is used to make a plastic wrap. It’s possible that some individuals won’t enjoy how artificial it seems in comparison to butcher paper.
Despite this, it is widely acknowledged as a substance that is safe for consumption and is utilized by a large number of individuals all over the world.
When it comes to serving food, there are many different types of materials you can use. And if you’re a growing food business or hospitality brand, the presentation of your edible creations are essential to thoroughly impress your customers! Avoid dishing out your main digs on plastic or styrofoam, and instead, turn your dining and hospitality experiences into elevated and unforgettable moments with creative packaging as enticing as your food.
To keep edible items and takeout containers fresh and safe from slipping onto laps or surfaces, you’ll want to consider using food-safe materials. Two of the most common are butcher paper and parchment paper.
Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so which one should you use for your food or hospitality business? Let’s take a closer look at each one to find out.
First, let’s look at butcher paper and what it’s typically used for. Butcher paper is a type of uncoated paper, usually white or light brown in color. As the name implies, butcher paper saw its origins in the meatpacking industry, where butcher shops used it to wrap and store meats.
In the kitchen
Because of this, they made the paper durable and resistant to moisture (blood and other fluids.) Nowadays, butcher paper is used for a variety of different purposes both in the kitchen (and outside it!)
In the kitchen, you can use butcher paper for wrapping meats and fish, as well as lining countertops or cutting boards when prepping food. It can make homemade charcuterie or a makeshift pizza peel.
You can also cook with butcher paper, as it is heat-resistant. Chefs often use it to roast meats and vegetables in the oven, as the paper helps to keep food moist while cooking.
Outside the kitchen
Butcher paper is often used for crafts and other projects. It’s also a popular choice for craft projects, such as paper mache.
What are the different types of butcher papers available on the market today?
There are two main types of butcher paper: kraft paper and white butcher paper. Kraft paper is made from 100% recycled materials and is brown. It’s also biodegradable and compostable, making it a more environmentally friendly option!
White butcher paper is made from virgin pulp and is bleached to achieve its bright white color. While white butcher paper is often perceived by the customer as being more clean and sanitary, it’s not as environmentally friendly as kraft butcher paper.
Both types of butcher paper are available in multiple thicknesses, from light-duty to extra-heavy duty. For some purposes, like plating, takeout and to-go orders, a thickness of 38gsm will do to ensure your food doesn’t flop around and make a mess.
There’s also peach-treated butcher paper, which is white butcher paper that has been treated with a food-safe resin. This treatment helps to resist moisture and grease further, making it a good option for wrapping oily or fatty foods. The name “peach paper” comes from the treated paper having a peachy-colored finish.
Parchment paper is a type of specialty paper made from wood pulp and coated with a food-safe silicone. This silicone coating gives the paper a non-stick surface, making it ideal for baking. The paper is also heat resistant, so you can use it up to 420-450 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven.
Parchment paper can be used for lining baking sheets and cake pans, wrapping fish or meats, making homemade ravioli or dumplings, and even folding into makeshift envelopes for ‘sous vide’ cooking.
What are the different types of parchment paper available?
Bleached and unbleached are available for food use, but bleached parchment paper is treated with chlorine to achieve its bright white color. This makes it less environmentally friendly than unbleached parchment paper, which is still as useful as the former but can be more easily composted.
Unbleached parchment paper is made from 100% virgin pulp and has a more natural off-white color. It’s also more eco-friendly than bleached parchment paper, and can actually come in different appearances other than the typical bland brown!
Is parchment paper the same as butcher paper?
No, parchment paper is not the same as butcher paper. Butcher is more versatile, as it can be used for cooking, wrapping, and crafts. Parchment paper is coated with a food-safe silicone, which gives it a non-stick surface.
Both are also different in terms of temperature tolerance. Parchment paper can be used up to 420-450 degrees Fahrenheit, while butcher paper has a higher temperature tolerance and can be used up to 500+ degrees Fahrenheit.
Which type of paper is more eco-friendly?
Whether or not one type of paper is more eco-friendly than the other depends on how it’s made. For butcher paper, it depends if there’s a lining on the inside. Aluminum lining can be used to increase the paper’s heat resistance for things like barbeque cooking. If there’s no such lining, then the paper is compostable and biodegradable. Unbleached parchment paper, on the other hand, is more environmentally friendly because it’s made from 100% virgin pulp and can be completely composted.
How to choose the right type of paper for your business
So, which one should you use for your business? That will depend on your brand’s needs! If you’re looking for a versatile option that you can use for cooking, wrapping, and more, then butcher paper is a good choice. If you’re looking for a paper mainly used for baking, then parchment paper is a good option. Whichever you choose, your good decisions don’t have to stop solely at the materials used in your food packaging. Why not make your food look even more fantastic with creatively designed food wrapping paper?
At noissue, we have food-safe and compostable butcher paper and parchment paper. Our food wrapping papers are available in many colors and sizes that fit your beautiful branding!
Durability
Don’t underestimate the power of high-quality food wrapping paper that’s also as eco-friendly as they come! While noissue Food Wrapping Paper currently comes uncoated, it’s sturdy enough to wrap around sandwiches, burgers, pastries, and confectionery. It’s also greaseproof, so your customer’s won’t have to worry about sticky hands after enjoying their meal. Just be sure to avoid packaging super saucy entrees or liquids with this product.
After chowing down, customers can toss their food packaging into a home compost for a guilt-free eating experience all around. No harm done to the environment, at the end of the day!
Branding
With noissue, you can print your branding on both recycled coated paper and food wrapping paper. It’s a great way to add a personal touch to your packaging and make it stand out from the rest! You can also choose to have your branding printed in full color with our signature non-toxic inks that won’t leak into your food.
Beginner-friendly designing
If you need help along the way, our Design team is always happy to assist in turning your logo into a repeating pattern, ensuring the right shades of color are printed, and more.
FDA Approved
All of our products are FDA approved and BPA free. This means that they are safe for direct food contact and wrapping within takeout containers. You can rest assured knowing that your customers are safe when using your packaging, and that your business isn’t leaving a negative impact on the planet!
🎁 Wrapping it Up
Get started with designing your brand’s custom food wrapping paper here, and check out our coated greaseproof option! And if you’re a budding hospitality brand that needs custom packaging in wholesale quantities, it’s no sweat. noissue Plus can work with you on designing your brand’s wholesale food packaging supplies without the headache.
Butcher paper is a wrapping for raw meat while parchment paper boasts a non stick surface.
As the only chef in my friend group, I am often bombarded with cooking related questions and one of the top ones is butcher paper vs. parchment paper – what’s the difference? Well, there are a few, actually.
In the post below, I will explain what each kind of paper is, what types they branch off into, how to use these papers, and more!
Let’s get started!