Can you use wax paper when baking? It isn’t recommended for a number of reasons. Learn why you should switch from wax paper to a more sustainable alternative.
Although some think that wax paper and parchment paper can be used interchangeably, wax paper should not be used while baking. Wax paper can be harmful when heated and therefore should not be used in the oven.
Why You Should Not Use Wax Paper When Baking
Wax paper is a type of wax-coated paper that is non-stick and moisture-resistant. While these characteristics make it a great choice for lining countertops, wrapping items, or layering items for storage, it should not be used in the oven. Wax paper can not be safely used in the oven as it is not heat-resistant. This means that the wax coating will start to melt in the oven, which could start a fire. The wax chemicals also will begin to break down if heated and are harmful if ingested.
Parchment Paper vs. Wax Paper
Parchment paper is a versatile item to have handy in the kitchen, as it has many uses, such as lining tins, molds and trays. It is heat-resistant (up to a temperature of 450 degrees Fahrenheit), moisture-resistant and also non-stick, thanks to its silicone coating. This makes it a great choice for layering items for storage or lining baking trays to give an even cook. It can help during clean-up as well: parchment paper is often used to line cookie sheets or baking trays in order to keep the pans clean. It can also be placed on countertops to keep surfaces clean.
Apart from these characteristics, parchment paper also has one more advantage. It can be used more than once, anywhere up to six times before it must be tossed. This makes it a more sustainable option than wax paper, which should only be used once before being tossed.
Tip: For a more sustainable bake, skip pre-heating the oven.
Sustainable Alternatives for Baking
Parchment paper can be used multiple times, making it a more sustainable choice than wax paper. However, there are some even more sustainable alternatives to parchment paper. Some examples include: using silicone mats (such as these – a zero-waste gift idea), greasing the baking tin instead of lining it, or using biodegradable parchment paper (available on Amazon**).
The bottom line? When baking, wax paper should not be used in the oven as it can be harmful if ingested and potentially cause fires. Always use parchment paper (or an alternative) if you are going to be baking in the oven.
Read on:
- How to Clean Cookie Sheets: 4 Natural Household Solutions
- Is Flour Vegan? Tips for Cruelty-Free Baking
- Low Carb Cookies: Recipes for Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Cookies
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