What is Wax Paper Made of? A Complete Guide

The use of wax paper as a household kitchen product was popularized in 1927. It started back in the 19th century, as Thomas Edison is credited with inventing the process of infusing thin tissue paper with food-grade paraffin wax during that era. If you’ve ever baked cookies or packed a sandwich, chances are you’ve come across wax paper. It looks like regular paper, but it is different from the regular ones. It feels a little different smooth, a bit waxy, and doesn’t stick.

What is Wax Paper Made of? A Combination of Chemicals to Understand

Wax paper is made from two basic things paper and wax. That’s it. The paper is known as the lightweight kraft paper that is slightly transparent. We can see through it, and it is coated with a thin layer of wax. The thickness of the kraft paper used for the wax paper is 35 gsm to 40 gsm. This wax coating makes the paper grease resistant, non stick and moisture resistance.

How Does the Manufacturing of Wax Paper Take Place?

Wax paper is used to wrap food. So it must be processed and made in an environment free of bacteria and other contaminants. But how would you know that your wax paper is food safe? Or prepared with the best safe methods. The solution is here as a brand; if you are looking for where to buy wax paper, then look no further as Wax Papers Hub is your solution. So you can easily get the non toxic wax papers made of FDA-approved materials that are safe for food wrapping.

But the wax paper you receive how is it made?

• The paper used in wax paper is usually made from wood pulp.
• But for wax paper, the pulp is processed a little more carefully.
• Then it’s bleached or cleaned so the final product is white, smooth, and safe to use with food. Some brands also make unbleached wax paper, which is brown in color.
• Then, melted wax is applied evenly on both sides of the paper using machines.

Wax paper is not suitable for use in ovens. Because as the temperature rises, the wax will melt.

Opt for Coating Options that are Commonly Used on Wax Paper

The wax coating is what makes the wax paper distinct from plain paper. The type of wax used on the papers can vary, because it’s up to you like whether you want a coating on one side or both sides. Many brands mostly prefer one side with the coating and logo and the other side with the logo for promotions.

Here are some common food safe coatings options:

Paraffin Wax
It comes from petroleum, but it’s purified and made safe for food contact. It creates a smooth barrier that keeps moisture out and prevents food from sticking.

Soy Wax
Soy wax is a more eco-friendly option. The reason is because of its plant-based and biodegradability properties. Some brands with eco friendly approach prefer soy wax coating for their wax paper.

Beeswax
Beeswax is a natural option that comes from bees. It’s sometimes used in reusable wax wraps instead of disposable wax paper. It smells nice and works well to preserve food.

Reasons Why People Use Wax Paper?

Wax paper has many handy uses, especially in the kitchen. Here are some common ones:

• Food Wrapping
  Wrap easily the sandwiches, cheese, baked goods, or leftovers in wax paper. It helps keep food fresh.
• Microwaving
  You can use wax paper to cover dishes in the microwave. It stops splatters but still lets steam escape.
• Rolling Dough
  When baking, wax paper is a clean surface to roll dough on. It prevents sticking without the need for too much flour.

One thing to remember don’t put wax paper in the oven. The wax can melt or even catch fire under high heat or a sudden increase in temperature.

Do Wax Paper and Parchment Hold the Same Properties?

A lot of people get mixed up between parchment paper and wax paper. Wax and parchment paper are not the same. The big difference is in the coating. Wax paper has a wax coating, and parchment paper has a silicone coating. That’s why it’s better to use parchment paper for baking.

Final Words

Paraffin is the primary chemical used to make wax paper. But it’s up to you to switch the coating type. But in simpler terms, wax paper is simply kraft paper that has been coated with wax.