Baking Paper vs. Aluminum Foil vs. Wax Paper: What to Use, When & Why

When it comes to food preparation and packaging, three materials often get mixed up: baking paper, aluminum foil, and wax paper. Though similar in appearance, each has distinct features — and choosing the wrong one can lead to food quality issues or even safety hazards.

At Runjia Novos materiais, we manufacture food-grade baking and packaging paper trusted worldwide. Here’s a buyer-focused comparison guide to help your business select the right material.

1. Baking Paper (Also Known as Parchment Paper)

Best for:

• Oven baking (cookies, cakes, pastries)
• Air fryers and steamers
• Greasy or sticky food wraps
• Food-contact liners for trays

Key Features:

• ✅ Coated with food-grade silicone on both sides
• ✅ Non-stick, greaseproof, and heat-resistant up to 230°C (446°F)
• ✅ PFAS-free, chlorine-safe
• ✅ Microwave-safe
• ✅ Available in white or unbleached brown, pre-cut sheets or rolls

🔍 Runjia Advantage: We supply baking paper for both household and industrial use, certified by BRC, FSC, ISO9001, and SEDEX, with OEM/ODM service for retail brands and food factories.

2. Aluminum Foil

Best for:

• Grilling, roasting, broiling
• Heat retention and steam cooking
• Food transport and storage sealing

Key Features:

• 🔥 Tolerates up to 600°F (315°C)
• 💡 Excellent heat conductor
• ⚠️ Not non-stick by default
• ⚠️ Not microwave-safe (risk of sparking)
• ❌ Not compostable or eco-friendly

When to Avoid It:
Do not use aluminum foil with acidic foods (like citrus or tomatoes) — it may react and alter flavor or leach into food.

3. Wax Paper

Best for:

• Wrapping cold foods (sandwiches, cheese, butter)
• Lining trays for food storage
• Separating pastries, candies, or burger patties

Key Features:

• ❄️ Greaseproof but not heat-resistant
• ❌ Will melt or ignite in ovens
• ✅ Microwave-safe for short reheating (cold use only)
• ♻️ Often partially compostable, depending on wax type

📦 Runjia produces premium wax paper for candy wraps, deli sheets, and retail packaging, offering excellent printability and food safety.

Quick Comparison Table

Final Tips: Function First, Not Just Appearance

✔ Use baking paper for baking, roasting, and air fryer applications — it’s safe, clean, and non-stick.

✔ Use foil for high-heat grilling or where structural wrap is needed, but avoid microwaves or acidic ingredients.

✔ Use wax paper only for cold or dry storage — never place it in ovens.

Looking for Bulk Baking & Packaging Paper?

Runjia Novos materiais is your B2B partner for certified, sustainable paper solutions:

• 🏭 42 automated production lines
• 🚚 36,000 tons annual capacity
• 📦 Full OEM support (branding, size, packaging)
• 🌱 PFAS-free, food-grade, and globally certified

Order Samples or Request a Custom Quotation

📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://siliconepapers.com
📘 Facebook: Runjia Facebook Page