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GSM (Grams Per Square Meter)  plays a key role in the right packaging and printing. It is a key metric for understanding the properties of different materials. GSM defines the thickness and strength of the materials, whether they are paper or fabric. The higher the thickness, the higher the GSM, the higher the quality & Durability. People often get confused when choosing the right paper weight and thickness that can perfectly meet the product’s requirements. For restaurants, cafes and the food industry, diverse varieties of food wrapping sheets are used, and the selection of the right GSM paper matters the most to keep the products secure and prevent external damage or accidental fall. In the blog, you can get the information you need regarding GSM paper, its importance, and how to choose the right paper weight/thickness for products. Stay with us and get every minute detail to eliminate all your doubts regarding the GSM paper. 

What is GSM Paper? 

GSM stands for Grams Per Square Meter and is often referred to as the “weight of paper”. This is also called the Paper’s grammage. The heavier the paper, the higher the number of grams per square meter. Moreover, it is a standard metric used in printing to quantify the weight of paper. For better understanding, it can be described as a GSM value of 100, which means that one square meter of the material weighs 100 grams. So, the high GSM values indicated the better quality and strength of the paper. 

Standard GSM Paper Sizes & Measurements 

Paper is used widely in various industries for various purposes, from food wrapping to producing letterheads, flyers or brochures. In addition to these, magazines and posters are also produced with paper. Paper is also widely used by packaging companies that promote eco-friendliness and maintain sustainability. But what differs among all of them is the right GSM range. There are different GSM values for every paper type. However, the common preferred GSM sizes are given below: 

GSM in Printing

The right GSM paper type is important in printing because it determines the weight and thickness of the paper. The thickness of printed paper directly impacts handling and durability. However, the overall look and feel of the printed product is also impacted. The right GSM is crucial to obtain the perfect printing results due to the following factors: 

• The surface and texture of the paper thickness can affect ink absorption and drying time, which influence the final print quality. 
• Choosing the right GSM ensures the smooth printing and prevents potential risks like paper jams. 
• It enhances the perceived value and quality of the product. Right GSM also creates a professional and classy look. 

Why Does the Weight Of Paper Matter?

The weight of paper matters because it directly influences the thickness and print quality. A lighter paper with low GSM is more susceptible to ink bleeding or showing through. The right paper weight or GSM is crucial to achieve the desired aesthetics and functionality of a printed object. However, the other reasons explaining why GSM of Paper is important are given below:

Tear & Wrinkle Resistant: High GSM papers are more resistant to tears/folds or wrinkles. This property makes them ideal for custom paper straws that can easily dissolve or tear in the drinks. 

Ink absorption: Lighter-weight paper absorbs ink less readily and leads to ink diffusion from the reverse side of the page, which badly affects the clarity of texts and images. 

Colour Reproduction: A paper with high thickness provides a consistent and vibrant colour reproduction, specifically when printing images or graphics. 

Texture & Finish: Papers with different GSM ranges also have varying textures and finishes. They offer a variety of tactile finishing options, such as for custom tissue paper, glossy touch is added to make it attractive and increase the product presentation. 

How To Measure The GSM of Paper 

Providing the right measurements or product information to the manufacturer saves you from any hassle or damage to the product. So, different steps are involved in measuring the weight of custom food paper or the right GSM value. Follow the given steps or contact an expert to do so: 

• Gather your measuring materials that include a precise scale, a measuring tape and a sample of paper you want to measure. 
• Measure the length and width of the paper sample in millimetres and centimetres. 
• Calculate the length and width of the paper sample in square centimetres and convert the area from cm² to m². You can get the area by dividing the cm² by 10,000. 
• Now, place the paper sample on the scale and record its weight in grams. 
• Use the formula: GSM = (Weight of sample in grams) / (Area of sample in square meters)

GSM Of Food Wrapping Sheets 

We all understand the varying ranges of GSM, and paper is preferred in almost every industry due to its recyclability and eco-friendly properties. With the increased side effects of plastic, paper is used in food wrapping by restaurants, cafes or bakeries to reduce the carbon footprint and attract eco-loving buyers. There are diverse custom food papers that come in different thickness ranges to accommodate the product needs. A few of them are given below: 

Parchment Paper 

Custom parchment paper is used to wrap different food items. It comes in different GSM ranges according to the product’s weight. The commonly used GSM value for parchment sheets is 40 to 80. The lighter weight makes it easy to wrap without affecting the quality. However, the standard for parchment paper rolls is 40 GSM. They are coated with silicone and used in baking, lining trays, and wrapping greasy foods. 

Greaseproof Paper 

The customised greaseproof sheets are manufactured to resist oil and grease penetration. This can be used in wrapping fried food, baked goods and sandwiches. The GSM range for these grease-resistant sheets is  40 to 80 GSM. You can opt for white or brown greaseproof paper for your products. 

Wax Paper 

The custom wax sheet rolls are coated with different types of wax that provide resistance to moisture. The GSM range for 20 – 40. They are used to wrap sandwiches, cheese and line baking pans or lids to prevent the food from sticking. 

Kraft Paper 

Kraft paper is commonly used for wrapping different types of food products due to its natural brown colour. The weight ranges from 28 to 120 GSM. This is a strong paper that serves excellently and can also be used for making paper food bags.

Butcher Paper 

Butcher paper sheets are used to wrap frozen foods or meats and store them for longer periods. They are also available in different GSM ranges from 40 to 80. These sheets are unwaxed. The paper is sturdy and breathable. 

Tissue Paper Sheets 

For tissue paper printing, the right GSM is mandatory to get smooth results. They come in a 17 – 40 GSM range. These custom tissue paper sheets are lightweight and thin. They excellently house various food items and are also used in wrapping or cushioning delicate items, or jewellery to enhance their appeal and protection.

However, the standard size range for customised tissue paper is 17 GSM and 28 GSM. These are slightly different. 17 GSM provides a lighter and translucent appearance of the paper and is mostly preferred for products that need high appeal. But 28 GSM adds a traditional look and is a bit thicker than the former one. 

Custom Napkins

Customised napkins are also available in different GSM ranges. They are used in food wrapping and decor at restaurants and cafes. The normal range for thinner napkins is from 15 GSM to 40 GSM. However, for thick napkins, it ranges up to 80 GSM. Besides paper, customised printed napkins are also available in fabric material. The GSM range for fabric differs from that of paper. The fabric  thickness ranges include: 

• Heavyweight Fabric: 500 – 700 GSM. 
• Medium Weight Fabric: 190 – 100 GSM.
• Lightweight Fabric: 67 – 140 GSM

Is GSM or PT the Same?

No, GSM and PT are not the same, but both are related to each other. GSM is Grams Per Square Meter and measures the weight of paper, and PT is the Point System that measures the thickness of material. They can be roughly correlated and are not directly interchangeable. 

Factors To Consider While Choosing The Right GSM Paper 

There are many factors that need to be considered while choosing the GSM. For everyday printing, a lower GSM, like 800- 100, is often enough. However, higher GSM is preferred for thicker and more durable materials. Here are the factors to consider to get the right GSM of paper according to the weight of your product. 

• Intended Use 
• Durability 
• Perceived Quality 
• Cost Effectiveness
• Paper Type 
• Target Audience 

Wrap Up! 

Choosing the right GSM of paper for your food wrapping, packaging, and other decorative purposes is essential for every business to prevent any damage or loss of product. Moreover, the right GSM helps you create a positive brand image and build loyal customers. So, choose the perfect paper for your business and make your products presentable and secure. If you feel any confusion, you can contact us at waxpapers.co.uk to give your products the desired look. 

The competition in the food chain industry is massive. From tasty cuisines to how they are packaged and presented to customers, everything combined plays a crucial role in building a memorable overall dining experience. From late 7000 BC, the primary concern of the food business was food packaging as they presented their meals to customers in decorative leaves, shells, and gourds. But with time, custom restaurant packaging has also evolved, and now the role it plays in shaping the customer perception of food and restaurants is so concerning.

Are you one of those who are striving to find attractive ways to optimize restaurant packaging? If yes, then continue reading to learn how to transform your packaging and bring some new creative things to make an impression in the competitive food world!

The Role Of Restaurant Packaging In Brand Promotion

Restaurant packaging needs to be more than just a cardboard box or tray but it should reflect professionalism to create a noteworthy experience. First impressions are core to enticing customers, and in the case of food, packaging matters a lot to make your customer’s eyes glimmer. The following are the benefits of taking your restaurant food packaging seriously and having your imaginable outcomes:

Enhances Brand Recognition

Your restaurant menu and food taste can reinforce customers’ perceptions of your food brand, but packaging is the unsung hero in building brand trust and loyalty. When customers see that you care about every aspect of your brand, from food ingredients to presentation and hygiene, they will automatically prefer you in the crowded marketplace. The following are how restaurant packaging enhances brand recognition:

• Mobile advertisement: Small branded details like food flags and straws make a huge difference in creating a recognizable brand image.
• Consistent branding: Make sure to use the same color hues, themes, and designs to develop a consistent yet reinforced brand identity.
• Memorable first experience: Quality food brands set the expectations of consumers, and with your quality and well-designed packaging, you can exceed their expectations.

Create A Premium Experience

The first experience of customers at your restaurant or first direct contact, like from takeout or food delivery, plays a significant role in designing customer loyalty. From your food to packaging and quality, all things work side by side to create a premium experience and win the customer’s loyalty. However, lacking in only one thing, such as neglecting the important parts of packaging (logo printing, intricate designs, finishes), can make customers choose alternative options. Here is  how you can create a premium express for your audience:

• Materials matter: Always opt for high-quality packaging material, as food products contain a lot of grease and oil that can spoil bad material even before reaching the hands of customers. Also, selecting eco friendly restaurant packaging materials can make a positive brand impact as consumers are very concerned about environmental health now.
• Memorable unboxing experience: Make your unboxing enjoyable so customers feel valuable. You can consider adding add-ons like tissue papers, packaging inserts, and other branding elements to excite them.
• Functionality and practicality: Prioritize packaging that can be opened by customers without any hassle. Keep in mind that your food box/bag/tray is well-designed and sturdy enough to keep your items fresh for longer during dine-in and delivery.

Encourages Repeat Business

Exceptional services can make customers promote your brand by word of mouth. A successful business communicates with its customers and makes them feel valued. Here again, packaging is a unique way to communicate to your audience efficiently. It’s your package that they take home during takeaway and delivery, so when they read the contents, see your brand logo, and explore your packaging from front to back, that’s the point they know if they want to continue purchasing from you or not. You can make your restaurant packaging encourage repeat business by following these key points:

• Food integrity: Regardless of design, is your packaging strong enough to prevent spills and keep food warm? Wise printed packaging but lacking in material and style choices can badly affect your food integrity. 
• Promotional opportunities: You can benefit from your packaging by sharing special offers for customers and social media platforms so they can explore you more and ultimately make repeat orders.
• Unique and innovative packaging: Your packaging should commit to both quality and functionality. Failing in one thing can allow your competitors to go ahead of you. So, a good food brand is always well-packaged and a well-packaged brand leads to brand loyalty. 

Support Marketing Efforts

Nowadays, people don’t have time to watch TV advertisements or big billboards as they are always in a hurry. Your food wrapping design is your chance: your moving billboards and silent salesperson. Here is how mindful packaging can support your marketing efforts:

• Customization: Customize your restaurant packaging design with your brand colors and other elements to create a personalized branding experience. This way, you can make your packaging unique from the competitors.
• Emotional connection: Take packaging as a narrative and use it to foster a connection with your customers. You can play with different colors and imagery and also use terms that can create nostalgia and excitement among customers.
• Interactive elements: Make your packaging functional at first and incorporate different interactive elements like QR codes and social media handles to encourage engagement and brand promotion in a fun way.

Promotes Sustainability

A wide majority of about 80% of the UK population are more concerned about eco-friendly packaging and are willing to pay more for brands that follow the same practices. This instant transformation has made brands transform to biodegradable restaurant packaging so they can meet the customer’s expectations. The following are the ways you can stand out as an eco-friendly food brand through your packaging:

• Eco-friendly material: Choosing materials made from a natural process that can break down in the environment naturally makes a huge impact as people now prefer reusing every item to reduce their carbon footprint. Minimise the use of traditional plastics and polyester and look for eco-friendly alternatives.
• Optimize packaging design: Consider minimizing unnecessary layers of your packaging and keep it to the point. Do not overload your packaging with printing; just consider elements that are necessary to print.
• Transparency and information: Mention what materials are used in manufacturing and how they can be recycled. Adding a recyclability badge can not only make your packaging stand out in the market but also create a positive perception in front of consumers who look for environmentally friendly products.

Small Touches That Make A Big Impact 

From the salt quantity in your burgers to your precise color usage in packaging, all small details should be considered to bring out unique brand value. The design of your packaging impacts consumer behavior, so that’s your chance to elevate your food by incorporating tiny details into your packaging. The following are some creative things to consider:

Line Your Drinks With Custom Coasters

Coasters are designed to protect tables from stains, but their elegant appearance can create a unique brand image. You can add a touch of personalization by incorporating your logo, brand name, and other engaging graphics printed on custom paper coasters. You should present your drinks with custom coasters for the following reasons:

• Preventing water rings and stains.
• Shielding from heat damage.
• Minimizing scratches.
• Unique brain opportunity.
• Preventing spills and easy to clean.

Coasters come in different materials, but you need to select those that work with your budget and required usage. All the materials are print-ready, so you can stay consistent with your branding and portray your promotional elements in front of customers. The following are the materials used, but most of the brands go with paper-based as it is an affordable and sustainable option:

Disposable Cold Cups

Another budget-friendly yet functional branding option is the cold cups, perfect for takeout and quick service settings for restaurants. Investing in high-quality and branded cold cups will make your restaurant stand out from competitors and offer another canvas to portray your brand’s creativity. You can choose from the following types of cold cups, mainly based on their materials:

• Paper cold cups: An Affordable and lightweight choice, available in double poly lined, wax coated, and insulated paper cups. 
• Plastic cold cups: Made from PPT or PET, while other compostable plastic cups are made from PLA.
• Foam cold cups: Not so environmentally friendly, expanded polystyrene is used in manufacturing foam cold cups that are designed for one-time use only.

Eco-Friendly Straw Options

Some restaurant owners may think that there’s no need to focus on such small things, but when you present your drinks with personalised paper straws, they will help you enhance the restaurant’s reputation. Below are some types of straws:

• Bamboo straws
• Paper straws
• Metal straws
• Glass straws 
• PLA straws

Food Presentation And Restaurant Decor For Visual Impact 

You have hired expert chefs to make the most delicious food for your customers, but the reality is that if your food lacks basic presentation skills, not a single customer will eat it happily. The environment, food presentation, and your restaurant decoration/aesthetics play a unique role in creating a memorable atmosphere. For restaurant decor, you should keep in mind the following key points:

• Establish a cohesive theme.
• Master the art of lighting.
• Embrace nature with greenery.
• Prioritize greenery.
• Reflect your brand personality with color psychology.
• Don’t neglect the small details.

The last point mentioned has the biggest impact as our main focus in this blog is to highly detail the small details that impact consumer behaviour. The art of running a business is to utilise small to large things on branding. From printed straws to your restaurant walls, all things matter to enhance the dining experience and complement the whole decor. Look for skilled restaurant packaging manufacturers that meet your budget and have positive testimonials to meet your packaging and decoration goals. Following are the two small touches that help you add the personalization in budget.

Decorative Food Flags

Why present your food items solely when you can add charming food flags for an exciting presentation? Mini food flags are usually inserted into food like burgers, sandwiches and cupcakes or displayed around the food. They are made from wooden sticks and paper-based materials that offer another chance to seduce eco-conscious consumers. Some attractive ways to use toothpick flags for food are given below:

• Labelling food items: Charcuterie boards, buffets, cake toppers, etc.
• Decorating food and events: Birthday parties, weddings, themed parties, international food festivals, etc.
• Practical uses: Food safety, stock rotation, and reduced food waste.

Colorful Bunting For Ambiance

People like to eat food in a decorative, clean environment. You should not only serve delicious food, but your ambiance should also be your main concern as it’s the first thing that is noticed by entering consumers. You can hang custom buntings banners across doorways, walls, ceilings and windows. Make certain that your selected bunting shape and printing match the overall theme and colors. You can use bunting in the following creative ways:

• Branding and promotions: Print restaurant colors, logos and messaging for a consistent visual experience.
• Atmosphere and festivity: Make it more enjoyable for consumers by adding trendy designs.
• Directional signage: Guide customers through buntings to different areas of restaurants.
• Promotional messaging: Announce upcoming events and new menus to consumers.
• Event decoration: Use special birthday, Halloween or Christmas buntings to brighten up the holiday atmosphere.

Tips For Professional Takeout And Delivery

A large population prefers takeout and delivery due to busy schedules. Your customer service and ordering system should be up to date, but one thing that helps communicate your true brand values to customers is your food packaging. The first thing to ensure while deciding the restaurant packaging ideas for your food is whether it will affect your food quality and safety. Focus on high-quality materials, clear labelling and microwave-safe options. The following are some components to consider:

• Safe materials: Use paper-based materials that offer good protection and insulation. 
• Sustainability: Opt for eco-friendly packaging solutions to build a positive brand aspect.
• Sealing: Consider secure sealing options, such as packaging tape for food to maintain freshness and prevent spills. 
• Microwave-safe packaging: Always wrap your food in freezer and oven-safe papers for customer convenience.
• Clear delivery receipts: Use a consistent format and include relevant information on delivery receipts.
• Labelled packing: consider printed packaging with branded logos, names and other related elements.

Wrap Up!

The key to giving a raise to your custom restaurant packaging uk is to focus on small details. People always prioritise the packaging of the brand and then build the perception accordingly. If you want your restaurant to become the word of mouth of consumers, then consider your food safety and branding side by side. 

Always consider easy-to-open and handle packaging and identify areas of importance through customer feedback. Moreover, regulatory compliance is another important thing to stand out in the competitive market and gain the trust of people. Look for experienced restaurant packaging suppliers and learn about their manufacturing and customer feedback. For competitive prices and customisation, Waxpapers.co.uk is the ideal packaging firm, with years of expertise in the industry. Waxpapers stay updated with packaging trends that are tailored to each client based on their budget and brand. 

Lastly, the main key to successful restaurant packaging is prioritizing functionality and creating a memorable experience for customers. Follow all these steps, and we bet your packaging will be the most prominent in the whole food chain!

Wax paper is a common, but essential kitchen item often used in cooking and baking. The small paper sheets seem like ordinary paper sheets but the convenience of these sheets is quite far better than you think.

Let’s assume you’ve eaten wax paper, not just like eating a sandwich, but more like a significant portion, say 1.5 by 2 inches. There could be several reasons for this accident such as the wax coating melting onto the food or a corner of the wax paper sticking to the sandwich, right?

Once you realize oh… No! I have eaten the wax paper and wondered; is wax paper edible or not? If it’s not, then what happens next in your stomach?

In this detailed guide, we will explore everything related to wax paper and find the answers to your questions. So, let’s examine, can you eat wax paper and what happens if you accidentally eat wax paper, is it safe or harmful to health?

Is Wax Paper Edible?

No, wax paper is not edible, simple is that. It is typically designed for food preparation to make daily life kitchen tasks faster and simpler, not just eating itself as a food item.

Here, one question comes to your mind; okay, we don’t eat wax paper so why do we use it for various food purposes like cooking or baking?

Why You Don’t Eat Wax Paper?

To reveal that, let’s discuss what exactly a wax paper is. Wax paper is a food-specifically designed food paper that is usually used in the kitchen. It is wax-coated, which is considered food-safe because it’s made from food-grade materials.

Over here it doesn’t mean, the wax coating is food-safe so you can eat this. Food-safe means it is only safe for direct food contact not consumed directly. However, not eating wax paper is a suggestion because its consumption may cause several stomach issues if it remains undigested.

What Makes Wax Paper Not Edible?

Understanding the key reasons or factors that make wax paper not edible is crucial for better understanding. Well, there are many reasons why wax paper is not edible and unsafe to eat for health if consumed directly. Discussing all is not possible here, but we try to discuss major ones. Here are some of the major reasons:

Chemicals & Contamination: Wax paper is passed through many chemical processes to remove impurities and enhance their abilities. If the additives in wax paper are consumed, it may cause several health issues.

Coating: The wax used in wax paper is mostly paraffin, a petroleum-based coating. It makes the paper non-stick and non-edible by a normal human body.

Non-Food Ingredient: As we discussed earlier, wax paper is designed for food preparation, it contains several additives or properties to keep the food safe, but not consumed as a food ingredient because your body won’t break it down and it will pass through your digestive system largely intact. 

Is Wax Paper Safe for Food Preparation?

Many people have been using wax paper a lot daily in their kitchens for cooking, baking, and storing food, but they don’t know many things which can lead to several misconceptions.

As the wax paper has direct contact with the food, people are not sure; whether it is safe to eat food such as sandwiches wrapped in sandwich paper or not. Similarly, here is a list with a bunch of questions related to wax paper and food. Let’s answer them one by one:

Can Wax Paper Absorb Into Food?

No, wax paper is not absorbed into the food unless you use it in the oven. However,  it helps to keep the food safe and fresh as it is specifically designed for it. Wax paper works like a block between the food and the environmental elements, and appears to be a safe and faithful choice for food wrapping.

Is Wax Paper Safe For Oven Usage?

Wax paper is not designed for use in ovens or other high-temperature appliances. So, don’t use wax paper in the oven instead of parchment paper.

There is a high possibility of the coating melting when exposed to high temperatures like in the oven or open flames, which leads to the coating being absorbed into the food. Here are some of the effects of wax paper absorption:

• Flavour: Although wax paper is tasteless, it can affect the food taste by mixing grease, oil, and coating that melts due to high temperature.
• Texture: Wax paper absorption causes paper stickiness with the food, which can negatively impact the overall cooking or baking experience.

Can You Cook With Wax Paper?

No! Wax paper is flammable and catches fire quickly. Let’s understand this with an example:

Imagine you cook scones and use wax paper as an alternative to parchment paper, just considering parchment paper is the same as wax paper, which is absolutely not. If you put scones into the oven, which makes the kitchen smell and then after a short time, it is highly possible a bunch of smoke or something will escape from the oven.

What Happens If I Accidentally Eat Wax Paper?

If you have eaten a piece of paper between cheese slices or may it stick with the pizza and you ignored it. After that, you realize it is possibly a piece of wax or parchment paper, and now confused; is it dangerous or not?

First, you don’t need to worry or go out of control to try different methods, nothing will happen as you often think will I die or something like that, just take a deep breath, take your shoulders down, and relax!

Eating wax paper in such a lower quantity doesn’t result in going to the hospital, but there is a chance that you experience excruciating stomach pains, such as:

Potential For Blockage: Eating wax paper will lead to blockage and could cause stomach upset, but smaller quantities won’t cause any serious issues. 

Stomach Discomfort: Due to the inability to digest, you likely face stomach disorders such as bloating and vomiting.

What Should You Do Now When You Accidentally Eat Wax Paper?

There is no need to panic, eating wax paper in such a sufficient quantity will likely pass through the digestive system and you won’t feel discomfort in your stomach. However, following these steps is crucial to avoid any health issues:

• Monitor unusual symptoms such as abdominal pain and vomiting.
• Drink plenty of water and fluids, it helps make paper edible by moving through the digestive system.
• Get a doctor or expert guidance if you have eaten wax paper in large quantities or are feeling unwell.

Will You Die If You Eat Wax Paper?

It depends on the wax paper rolls you have eaten like four, no five, or maybe a dozen. If you have eaten a ton of wax paper rolls in a row you will definitely go to the hospital and more likely die as well. But, for a significant paper portion such as 1.5 or 2 inches of a wax paper sheet part, nothing will happen for sure.

Final Thoughts

Wax paper is non-toxic and eating it in small quantities accidentally will unlikely cause any harm, but it doesn’t mean to be eaten. Wax paper is food-safe and specifically designed for kitchen usage, the unmatched properties and abilities of wax paper to keep the food safe from contamination and keep it fresh for a long time can be utilized in the kitchen.

It is suggested to use wax paper just only for cooking and food preparation and avoid its consumption in any way. Lastly, there is nothing toxic or harmful in wax paper, so there’s no need to worry if you have eaten a small quantity.

Paper plays an essential role in the presentation of the food. Different varieties of paper have different purposes. Among the huge variety of custom papers, wax paper and greaseproof paper sheets are quite commonly used. Although these two papers are quite common in appearance their manufacturing process and main usages are different. 

By understanding the key differences between the two you can easily serve and store the food. The multiple differences of both papers indicate that wax paper is not the same as greaseproof paper. Let’s read the blog and find out why.

Manufacturing Differences

The primary difference between wax and custom greaseproof paper is that both are manufactured in a different way. The difference in the manufacturing process greatly influences the properties of the paper. 

Wax Paper Manufacturing

Wax paper roll is coated with a thin layer of wax that gives moisture-resistant and non-stick properties to the paper. So if you have to pack slightly moist and greatest foods then wax coated paper is an excellent choice. These features make the wax-coated paper a wisely used material to wrap greasy food items. For sustainable aspects, some of the brands prefer soy-based wax coating over paraffin wax. The following steps are involved in the manufacturing: 

• Base Paper Production 
• Wax Coating 
• Drying and Smoothing  

Greaseproof Paper Manufacturing

On the other hand, in the manufacturing of printed greaseproof paper a special process is involved called super calendering. In this process, paper fibers are highly compressed to give a dense and smooth surface. Supercalendring makes the paper naturally resistant to grease without the need for wax or any other coating. The dense fiber structure of the paper gives grease resistance. In grease-resistant paper manufacturing following steps are involved: 

• Fiber Refining  
• Supercalendering  
• Optional Treatments    

Chemical Differences

As the manufacturing process of greaseproof paper bags is different from that of wax paper sheets that is why they both are chemically different from each other. The major chemical differences are: 

Wax Paper Composition

Waxpapers UK can contain two types of wax namely, paraffin and soy-bean wax. Sometimes brands also opt for beeswax but it is a little more costly than the rest two. No matter which type of wax coating you have chosen they melt when exposed to high heat that is why wax appears and can never be used in the oven due to safety concerns. 

Greaseproof Paper Composition

The grease-resistant paper does not contain any wax or chemicals. Its qualities are due to the mechanically compacted fibres. Due to the absence of coatings in branded greaseproof paper, you can use it to cook meals at high temperatures. 

Application Differences

Although, you can use the papers as an alternative to each other. There are several instances in which you have to use a specific type. The difference in mechanical properties and resistance to heat make them suitable for specific uses, such as: 

Printing Differences

Printing is one of the most important of custom food wrapping papers. With the help of printings, brands give a unique and alluring look to their food paper wraps. Due to the difference in surface area, the printing on wax and grease-resistant sheets is also different. 

Printing On Wax Paper

Wax paper is not ideal for printing. This is because the paper contains a wax coating that prevents ink absorption. The printed design easily gets smudged so the whole process is done carefully. Aside from this, printing methods that use high heat such as laser printing are not suitable for wax-coated paper. 

Printing On Greaseproof Paper

Greaseproof paper is an excellent option for printing due to its absorbent and matte surface. Ink adheres well on this paper and there are no chances of your artwork getting smudged. 

Difference In GSM Of Paper 

GSM of custom printed wax paper and grease-proof paper are quite different. Grams per square meter is the unit of paper weight. This determined the durability and print quality of the paper. The higher the GSM the stronger the paper and vice versa. In wax and custom-printed greaseproof paper, the following GSM are used: 

Wax Paper GSM

• Usually 30 to 60 GSM
• Lighter GSM (30-40 GSM) when food items are wrapped
• Heavier GSM (50-60 GSM) is used for industrial applications 

Greaseproof Paper GSM

• Typically 30 to 70 GSM
• Lighter GSM (30-40 GSM) is used for bakery wrapping.
• Higher GSM (50-70 GSM) is used for food packaging and lining trays.

Environmental Impact

The base material used in the manufacturing of both papers is made from wood pulp and is sustainable. However, due to the application of coating on wax paper sheets, they become difficult to decompose especially if paraffin wax is applied on the paper. On the other hand, the greaseproof paper does not contain any kind of coatings and is highly environmentally friendly. 

Conclusion 

The difference in the chemical and mechanical process of the paper imparts different properties making greaseproof paper and wax paper different from each other. Though in certain instances you can use them as an alternative to each other, however, when it comes to heated applications then make sure you are choosing the suitable options. If you are looking for any kind of custom paper you can contact Waxpapers UK and avail the best quality at the lowest possible rates. 

If you are tired of failed baking experiences or tacky kitchen messes then do not worry anymore. Selecting the right paper for your food cuisines and baking can make your kitchen experience smoother and better. Butcher and parchment paper are similar in appearance but they have different roles in the kitchen. These customised sheets also have different manufacturing processes, heat resistance, and applications. We have discussed in detail the key differences, and how they can help you prevent kitchen clutter and make your cooking/baking enjoyable.  Let’s dig into the details of parchment paper vs butcher paper. 

Butcher Paper Vs Parchment Paper

Butcher Paper – Perfect Wrapping Solution  

The use of the word butcher itself leaves us wondering what is butcher paper actually. If you are curious to know then the answer lies right here. Custom Butcher Paper is a durable and food-grade paper that serves various applications in the food industry. Plus, it is a popular choice for wrapping meats due to its tensile strength, breathability and many other features. It also offers a high presentation of the products and is not limited only to wrapping but also used in crafts and decoration.

Unique Colors Of Butcher Paper 

Printed butcher paper comes in diverse types due to its uses and properties. Given here are the popular choices of butcher paper that you can use according to your business needs. Plus, they also come in different sizes and thicknesses to give you a memorable cooking experience. 

White Butcher Sheets 

This is an uncoated paper that is used for wrapping sandwiches and subs. It is also used for lining serving trays, for crafts and as a table cover for enhanced presentation. 

Pink Butcher Paper 

This is also called peach paper which is used to display fresh meats to enhance their appearance. This is also a perfect choice for smoking meat and barbecuing. You can use them without worrying about any harmful effects because Butcher papers are FDA-approved.   

Gardenia Butcher Paper 

This is a premium butcher sheet that protects the meat from outside moisture and refines the colour of its contents. This is commonly used in meat and fish displays.

Peach Treated Butcher Paper

This paper is treated with a sizing agent to preserve the freshness of meat. It is a thick, food-grade paper perfect for grilling and smoking. It prevents leakage and offers breathability to the wrapped meats. 

Manufacturing of Butcher Paper Sheets 

The manufacturing process of butcher sheets is different from parchment paper. Different chemicals and coatings are used. Here is a brief discussion of the manufacturing of customised butcher sheets. 

• Chemical Treatment: For butcher paper, wood pulp is used that is obtained from virgin wood or recycled materials. In this process, the wood is cooked with a chemical solution to break down lignin to separate the cellulose fibres. The chemicals used are NaOH and Na2S. They ensure stronger fibres and durable paper. 
• Bleach Process: This is an optional step. It is done to obtain white paper. The bleaching agents are used to remove the natural brown colour. These agents are H2O2 and ClO2. They do not affect the paper’s durability and give an aesthetic appeal to the paper. 
• Sheet Formation: The pulp is transformed into sheets by spreading it onto a mesh screen where the fibres bond together. After the drying process, the paper is cut into desired sizes and shapes. 
• Coating: After sheet formation, the paper is treated with different coatings to make it resistant to grease or moisture. Coatings are applied to handle different types of food from dry cuts of meat to moisture-rich items like fish. 

How Butcher Paper Helps In the Kitchen?

Butcher sheet rolls offer various benefits and have unique properties that make them an ideal choice to use in the kitchen. Below is a table to let you know about the classy nature of the butcher sheet.

Perks Of Using Butcher Paper 

Butcher paper is preferred due to its versatile applications in different industries. It is used commonly in the food industry. But other education and craft industries also use butcher wrapping paper for various decoration purposes. Here are the perks of using these customised sheets. 

• This is used in various food preparation tasks, from wrapping and storing to lining, smoking, steaming and covering foods. 
• These sheets can be used as decorative wrapping papers for sandwiches, burgers or other food items. 
• For craft projects such as paper mache, you can use butcher wrappers as an affordable and convenient sheet. 
• It can also be used as a backdrop for an event to elegantly display the photos. 

Parchment Paper – Keep your Foods Fresh 

Ever wondered what is parchment paper and how it helps to make our cooking and baking convenient? No? We have the answer to satiate your curiosity. Parchment paper is versatile, non-stick and heat-resistant, widely used in kitchens and food industries. It serves various other purposes for instance in craft projects. This is also called baking paper due to its high heat-resistant properties.

Manufacturing Process of Parchment Paper 

During manufacturing, ordinary paper is transformed into a non-stick, heat-resistant material. Baking paper undergoes chemical treatment to achieve oil resistance properties along with its non-stick surface. However, greaseproof paper undergoes mechanical treatment to attain oil resistance. Here is a brief discussion of the manufacturing process: 

• Pulping: The process begins with wood pulp derived from trees, usually hardwoods or softwood. The pulp is crushed and transformed into sheets and then subjected to a chemical bath to attain enhanced properties.  
• Sulphuric Acid Treatment: This is the shaping process in which the sheets undergo sulphuric acid treatment to produce a denser and smoother paper surface with a non-porous surface. Plus, sulphuric acid also makes the paper resistant to moisture and grease. Thus, making the paper resistant to high temperatures without causing burns or deformation, unlike wax paper which burns under similar temperatures. 
• Drying and Smoothing: After the sulphuric acid treatment, the paper is dried and passed through rollers to ensure its smooth and even surface. This is a vital step in manufacturing to create a smoother surface. 

Types Of Parchment Paper

Parchment sheets come in two different types depending on the usage. They are classified according to the chemical processes. Following are the common types of Parchment sheets. 

Bleached Parchment Sheets 

As indicated by the name, this paper undergoes a chemical treatment using chlorine to achieve a white colour. Bakery businesses often prefer these sheets due to their appearance, particularly, when baking delicate pastries. 

Unbleached Parchment Sheet 

This paper is not treated with chlorine and is considered more eco-friendly than bleached. It comes in a natural brown colour. This is widely used for cooking, grilling or steaming. It also helps in cleaning messes and splatters. 

Why is Parchment Paper A Necessity For Every Food Business?

In this fast-paced era, Parchment paper rolls are crucial for every commercial or home kitchen because of their diverse properties that help prevent food from burning and many other perks. Here are the reasons to answer your queries of why use parchment paper.

Common Uses Of Parchment Paper Sheets

Parchment roll sheets offer diverse services. They make the cooking experience convenient and enjoyable. Here are the common uses that you must know about these kitchen tools. 

• This paper helps in baking, prevents the food from sticking to the pans or sheets and makes it easier to remove the baked items from the pan. 
• If you do not have cones for icing cakes or cookies then the parchment sheets serve you excellently, you can simply fold them into cones and decorate your bakery items without any hassle. 
• Parchment paper sheets make your pie crust rolling easier without making your counters messy and also help reduce flour usage. 
• Cooking en papillote is wrapping food in a parchment sheet and cooking it in the oven without the fear of burns. 
• You can also store your cheese in these wrapping sheets.
• Place the parchment sheets on your cabinet tops to avoid any dust or grease. 

Parchment Paper Oven Safe Temperature 

Parchment wraps are designed to resist high heat temperatures. So they are perfect to use in the oven. This paper is coated with silicone, so it can withstand temperatures up to  450°F without causing any burn or food deterioration. This property makes it an ideal choice for baking cookies and roasting vegetables. So, silicone waxpaper can go in the oven up to a certain temperature and maintain the texture of your foods. 

Printings For Custom Parchment Paper & Butcher Sheets 

Both parchments and butcher wrapping sheets are similar in appearance but they also differ in printings. For parchment wrapping papers, flexographic and rotogravure printings are suitable for high-quality images and logo printings. However, for butcher wraps, offset, digital and flexography are suitable options. They give fine details and use food-grade inks. You can use advanced printing techniques for brand promotion by adding your logos, texts or brand images onto the wrapping food papers. 

Ideal Food Grade Coatings used on Custom Food Papers 

Can butcher paper be used in the oven? 

No, butcher paper is not designed to be used in Oven. It cannot tolerate high temperatures. But, you can use pink butcher paper up to 450°F for wrapping meats during smoking or grilling. This allows the meat to breathe while preventing the meat from drying out. But remember to use moderate temperatures to avoid any burns. 

How To Choose The Right Paper 

If you are unsure which paper is suitable to use for kitchen purposes then here is the solution for you. If you are planning to bake a cake or roast your favourite vegetables then go for parchment paper. Its nonstick surface is best for baking or roasting. But, if you are going to host a party and want juicy tender meat, then, butcher paper is the perfect choice for grilling and smoking meats. But, if you want to improve the presentation of your foods and give them a delightful look then use any of these according to your product requirements. 

Wrap Up! 

Confused is butcher paper the same as parchment paper? If yes, then get your answer straight here, both are different and have different properties from wrapping to gratin resistance and oven usage, they offer different purposes. Butcher paper is uncoated and unbleached however, parchment sheet is coated with silicone or quilon. Get your wrapping papers from waxpapers uk to give your food brand an entirely new look with the right customised sheets printed with your logos.

Christmas is approaching and it’s the right time to put out the cheerful decorations to restyle your home into a Christmas wonderland. One of the most resilient and enchanting ways to decorate for Christmas is with buntings. Custom Buntings are perfect for bringing a joyful and festive atmosphere. Buntings add a cheerful touch to every place, whether in the comfort of your home, living room, office, church or even at Christmas parties. With buntings, make every gathering feel extra special and create a warm, welcoming ambiance during this holiday season. So, bring your festive spirit to life with the given bunting decoration ideas to celebrate Christmas. 

Exciting Christmas Buntings

Different Christmas-themed buntings can be customized to add joy to the events and create a sense of festivity. Decorate your living rooms, indoors or outdoors places with any of the following bunting types. 

1. Wall hanging Christmas banner with golden star frill 
2. Santa Bunting Banner 
3. Gingerbread Christmas Bunting Banner 
4. Christmas theme paper bunting 
5. Reindeer Hanging Buntings 
6. Snowflake Bunting 
7. Christmas Tree Bunting 
8. Bauble Bunting 
9. Holly Bunting 

7 Stunning Bunting Decor Ideas for Christmas

Buntings are the ideal decorations for Christmas celebrations. They add a colourful vibe to the whole atmosphere. Whether you are hosting a holiday party, need to decorate for the Christmas season or just want to create a welcoming and cozy atmosphere, custom bunting banners can be designed in any shape, colour, or style. Following are the ideas you must know to give surprising and memorable moments to your guests. 

1. Hanging Buntings 

A fireplace is the pivotal point of the gatherings at Christmas and they create a sense of coziness and warm environment. So, place hanging buntings above the fireplace to have a nice background to take photos with your family and friends. Fireplace Christmas banners are unique yet fashionable. Plus, they are long-lasting and durable. 

2. Personalized Christmas Bunting

Personalized bunting at Christmas makes your decorations extra special. You can customize the buntings with any of the Christmas quotes or merry Christmas characters. Not only this, but also make your buntings different by combining various Christmas items like a tree, Santa, or snowman. With a Customized bunting banner, convey any message to make your guests feel special and valued. But, to create a lasting impression on your guests, use custom printed napkins with Christmas themes and images. 

3. Christmas Bunting DIY

Buntings are not difficult to design, you can make your own bunting decoration by selecting your desired shape from rectangular, triangle, circular, or other whimsical shapes like snowflakes or trees. Design the bunting with any of your favourite fabrics from velvet to polyester or plaid to match with Christmas themes. Moreover, it is a pocket-friendly and fun thing to do during the holidays. 

4. Printed Bunting For A Pop Of Christmas  Color 

Printed bunting is an outstanding way to create a sleek touch to the home decor. You can choose any of the Christmas motifs to be printed on the bunting flags in your desired colours that align with the theme. So, fill your space with seasonal charm by adding vibrant coloured printed buntings. Also, print the Merry Christmas letters on customized tissue paper with different coloured foilings and use them for buntings. Different foil colours can be used such as gold, silver, red or green to create a bold look for the events. 

5. Outdoor Buntings for a Decorative Welcome 

Buntings are not designed only to be used for indoor celebrations but they can be excellently used for outdoor Christmas events. You can hang these colourful buntings at the doorway, on your porch, or at the entrance door to create a welcoming environment for your guests. Moreover, Christmas celebrations at places that experience snow add a charming decoration effect against the snowy landscape and red, and green coloured Christmas buntings. 

6. Buntings For a Fun Christmas Party 

If you are hosting a Christmas party then to create excitement and joy for kids, different themed items in buntings give an eye-catching look of the backgrounds or fireplaces. For instance, Santa and reindeer buntings are perfect for children. However, a Nativity scene is best for those looking for a retro style to give a vintage touch to the celebrations. The candy cane theme bunting adds a sweet aesthetic touch and allure the people of all ages. Plus, to add more fun to your Christmas parties, you can use customized printed paper straws with Christmas colours red or green to make your celebrations remarkable. 

7. Christmas Pudding Bunting To Amaze The Guests 

This Christmas Bunting is made of seven triangles. The four triangles feature a Christmas pudding and the remaining consist of gingham checks and spots. These are durable waterproof buntings that can be used indoors and outdoors. The beautiful design of the Christmas tree, Christmas gingerbread cookies, plate of mini Christmas puddings and a label with Merry Christmas creates a wonderful festival feel. 

Christmas Bunting Ideas To Make Your Celebrations Memorable 

If you want to enjoy Christmas at fullest with custom bunting flags then remember to decorate some of the specific places with bunting to make them dominant and attractive. Here are the ideas for bunting decorations that will make your celebrations unforgettable. 

• Place the Christmas buntings above the Fireplaces. 
• Decorate your Christmas trees with colourful buntings. 
• Use printed buntings for a Christmas party backdrop to display your message to the guests. 
• Decorate your windows with Christmas buntings, you can contact a custom bunting banner maker to get any of the desired buntings that align with your home and event style. 
• Decorate your dining tables with buntings customized with Santa, Christmas tree or snowflakes and enjoy a wonderful meal with your loved ones. To make your Christmas meals even more lavish, you can also use printed placemats that align with the Christmas themes. 
• You can also decorate your bedrooms with customized buntings to spread the holiday spirit. Throughout the house. 
•  For outdoor Christmas events, you can also customize the buntings in any shape or size to make your decor vibrant and catchy. 

Christmas Buntings In A Nutshell 

Printed Buntings are an exciting and highly customizable way to celebrate Christmas with full zest and joy. Custom buntings come in a huge variety from Christmas themes to colours, images or glitters to make your festival extraordinary. There are endless possibilities and bunting decor ideas for your home, outdoors and other places. Whether you want to decorate a Christmas tree, doorways, or a party backdrop, buntings are perfect to bring life to your events. So, grab your custom buntings wholesale from Waxpapers and make your Christmas even more memorable.

Napkins seem as a common thing that can only be placed over the table and the plates, but these napkins can enhance the overall presentation of the table and make a lasting impression on guests or customers. Sounds good right? But how to do that? We are sure that this question comes to your mind.

Well, in this guide, we will explore 5 basic but exciting napkin-folding ideas to give them unique shapes that gain the attention of your guests at first glance. And Yeah, these ideas don’t require any advanced folding skills. You can give your personalised napkins a new shape and look by just following a few steps. So, let’s dive in.

How Paper Napkins Enhance Table Presentation?

Placing napkins traditionally is not impressive, place your napkins in a more memorable way by following the current presentation trends. These exciting folding ideas turn your square-shaped napkins into a brand-boosting strategy.

Branded napkins are used to give the table a final or unique touch, these napkins are commonly placed over the surface of the table and plates. These custom napkins also help to protect or clean the table and are useful from a dinner perspective. But what if with a little effort, you can give your napkins a new look that will enhance the overall guest dining experience? Yeah, it’s possible and quite easy.

Impressive & Stunning Napkin Folding Idea

These creative napkin-folding ideas are served in three ways – they are exceptionally easy, significantly impact the overall table design and presentation, and provide the opportunity to bring traditional or occasional details to the table. With all these incredible facilities, you must try these folding ideas for your restaurant or party tables. Let’s get started:

1. Simple & Class Pocket-Shaped Folding Idea

Pocket-shaped napkins are incredibly simple but give a classy presentation look at the tabletop decor. This folding idea matches or is versatile for every occasion or event. Along with that, this is extremely functional, as the name suggests this idea creates a pocket for your custom printed napkins that can hold various items such as place cards, menus and even beautiful welcoming flowers. In short, the pocket-shaped folding idea adds an upscale touch to your table setting.

Here is the step-by-step guide to achieving this classy folding idea:

1. Place the napkin flat.
2. Fold your napkin in half, then twist it.
3. Fold it to meet or gather opposite corners.
4. Again turn over the napkin.
5. Fold it into thirds.
6. Turn back over and done.

2. Clear and Greeting Enveloped Shaped Folding Idea

The enveloped-shaped paper napkin looks very elegant and the best thing about these napkins is that they are extremely easy and quick to craft. Envelope napkins are not only beneficial for holding tabletop items such as place cards and menus but also add an element of fascination to your table setting. The envelope napkins build curiosity in guests to uncover the hidden special treat inside them.

Here is the step-by-step guide to achieving this alluring folding idea:

1. Place the napkin flat.
2. Fold the napkin in half.
3. Rotate, so that open ends are facing away from you.
4. Pick and fold the right two sides towards the centre.
5. This makes a slight triangle on the right side.
6. Fold the napkin’s left side over in half to meet the right.
7. Lastly, fold both over and done.

3. Creative Cone Shaped Folding Idea

A quick and graceful folding idea that creates a unique look. This is the effortless and the most superficial way to add creativity to your tablescape. Cone-shaped napkins add a striking touch to events such as parties, birthdays and weddings. These cone-shaped personalised tissue papers are mostly used to place or hold long-stemmed flowers that make every table look stunning.

Here is the step-by-step guide to achieving this creative cone-shaped folding idea:

1. Lay the napkin flat.
2. Fold the napkin in half.
3. Orient the open ends away from you.
4. Then, fold the napkin into quarters.
5. Again, orient the open ends fronting away from you.
6. Fold the topmost layer all the way onward.
7. Then, press it down flat.
8. Turn the napkin over.
9. Fold the napkin’s left side over two-thirds of the right (opposing) side.
10. Fold the right side over to parallel with the left side.
11. Fold or flip the corners into the left side flap.

4. Sophisticated Three-Point Fold Shaped Folding Idea

The three-point fold, also known as the pyramid fold, is one of the popular and preferred napkin folds because it looks very elegant and is also a striking way to present napkins on the table. All these features make this folding style a classic choice for formal occasions. This style can also be beneficial for holding small items such as place cards and fresh herbs or flowers.

Here is the step-by-step guide to achieving this sophisticated three-point fold folding idea:

1. Place the napkin flat.
2. Fold the napkin in a diagonal form.
3. Fold the right corner of the napkin on top of the left corner.
4. Keep the right corner just below the left corner, don’t match properly.
5. Again, fold the right side towards the left.
6. Place it just below the second layer, until you get the desired necktie shape.

5. Stylish & Elegant Fan-Shaped Folding Idea

The fan napkin fold is a classic and elegant napkin folding technique that can add a stylish touch to any event, making it a most embellishing technique to elevate tabletop settings. As looks familiar with seashells, these branded tissue paper are mostly used for a beached theme party.

Here is the step-by-step guide to achieving this beach-inspired folding idea:

1. Layer the napkin flat.
2. Fold the bottom edge of the napkin (by 1 inch).
3. Then, fold back the napkin.
4. Continue this forth and back folding process, until completion of the napkin.
5. Center it and fold the foregather napkin in half.
6. Slide a napkin ring.
7. Fan out the top of the napkin.

Additional Tips For Perfect Napkins Fold

For a perfect napkin fold, in your tabletop presentation, you need to focus on these things such as:

• Right Napkin Material
• Use Accessories
• Colour Coordination

Right Napkin Material

A well-chosen napkin material is easy to fold and maintain its shape. Linen and cotton napkins are good choices because they fold pretty well and can be easily turned into the desired look as compared to wax paper and paper napkins. They are often preferred for formal occasions, anniversaries and weddings.

Use Accessories

Use accessories to your napkin fold, such as a napkin ring, and beautiful flowers to make your table setting more elegant and give your guests a luxurious feel.

Colour Coordination

Choose the perfect colour that matches your occasion theme enhances the overall table presentation and gives your presentation a more attractive appearance.

Final Thoughts

Personalised paper napkin folding is an art that enhances the overall event and tabletop presentation. Folding napkins in different designs and styles gives a premium feel and impresses your guests. Whether you are operating a formal or a casual occasion these napkin-style ideas make your event remarkable.

With all these features you must try these 5 stylish folding ideas for your events and parties to give your event a sense of luxury.

Are you facing difficulties in finding the best quality and premium-look napkins? waxpapers provides luxurious styles or quality standard custom-printed napkins that are not only durable but also provide a rustic charm. Or if you have any queries about these folding styles you must share them with us by simply visiting our website.

Today there is a keen focus on the sustainable use of packaging, whether it comes to selling retail products or food items. Specifically in the food businesses, the customer prefers only sustainable packaging to avoid any toxins in their food. In the food presentation and protection two papers are used, wax and parchment papers. The appearance of both of them is the same, nonetheless, their key properties are quite different. 

Their heat resistance, non-stick properties, printing compatibility, coatings, manufacturing process, applications, and longevity all differ from each other. Let’s read the blog and break it down! 

Manufacturing Difference Between Wax Paper And Parchment Paper

Wax paper and parchment paper both are manufactured with the same raw material which is wood pulp. However, the way the wood pulp is processed in the manufacturing of each creates a significant difference. This difference in manufacturing gives them unique properties. 

Wax Paper Manufacturing

Custom wax paper for food is made by pulping the wood pulp and creating thin paper sheets. These paper sheets are treated in such a way that smooth paper sheets can be obtained. These paper sheets are then submerged or rolled in melted wax to give a shiny, smooth, and moisture-resistant barrier. 

The most important feature of the wax paper sheet is its wax coating. Paraffin, beeswax, or vegetable wax are used as a moisture and non-heat-resistant barrier. Due to the wax coating, wax paper cannot withstand a temperature above 150–200°F (65–90°C), as the wax coating can melt or even catch fire. 

Manufacturing Of Parchment Paper

The manufacturing of parchment paper also starts from wood fiber. The main difference is that, after the pulping process, the paper is treated with sulphuric acid or ammonium bisulphite. This treatment alters the structure of cellulose and cross-links the fiber. Not only this with the help of sulphuric acid treatment the durability and the heat-resistant properties of the paper increase. Wholesale parchment paper can withstand temperatures of up to 420°F (216°C), so it is an ideal option for baking, cooking, or other high-heat applications. 

To further enhance the heat-resistant properties of parchment, the paper is coated with silicone. When the paper is treated with sulphuric acid, it becomes non-porous. This non-porous nature of the paper makes it a perfect alternative to greaseproof paper. 

Is Parchment Paper The Same As Wax Paper In Application?

Properties such as resistance to moisture, heat, and grease are different in both of the custom sheets. In certain cases, they can not be used as an alternative to each other. Considering this, both of them have different applications. Some of the applications are listed in the table below:

Printing Compatibility 

Sometimes brands want to print their custom food wrapping papers to add a promotional element. In this case, several printing methods are used to add logos, recipes, specific artworks, etc on the paper. Majorly two printing methods are used, one is inkjet and the other is laser printing. As the applied coatings are different in the custom papers the printing compatibility is also different such as: 

Laser Printing

In laser printing heat is used to fuse the ink or toners onto the paper. Here a laser beam is used to create an electrostatic image on the surface of the paper. That image is then coloured by fusing ink via heat. The purpose of heat is to strongly adhere to the paper, as parchment paper rolls are resistant to heat so they can withstand the heat from the laser and get printed with accurate and high-quality designs. On the other hand, wax paper wholesale is not printed with laser printing because here the paper can catch fire and the wax can melt. 

Inkjet Printing

In inkjet printing, liquid ink is used so heat is not required. In it, liquid ink is stored in tiny droplets to create an image that is absorbed on the paper surface. This printing method is compatible with both custom food wrapping paper, i.e. parchment and wax paper. The only issue that comes with it is that one must be very careful while printing wax sheets as the surface is non-absorbent and the inks can smudge onto the surface. 

When To Choose Wax Paper Vs Parchment Paper

Choosing the right paper depends upon the task you have to perform with the paper. Say if you need to use the paper for high-heat purposes such as baking or cooking then you can rely only on parchment paper. On the other hand, if you need to use the paper for moderate or cool temperatures then you can simply go for wax paper as it is slightly cheaper in price than parchment. You can see the table below to know when to choose what. 

Conclusion 

When it comes to choosing the right paper for cooking and presentation, then the tasks sometimes become slightly difficult. This is because custom papers look almost the same and all have the same white colour. Nonetheless, the papers are similar not only in appearance but their features and applications differ to a significant extent. Similar to other papers, parchment and wax paper are also not the same. 

They have different tolerance to heat, moisture, and tear and also are used for different purposes. The difference in the manufacturing process and in the coatings creates this distinction. If you want to get any of the custom paper you can contact WaxPapers and obtain the most high quality and affordable food wrap at affordable rates. So call us today and grant the most amazing deals instantly! 

The food processing business chooses the packaging material based on the needs of food products, taking into account elements such as strength, printability, processability, heat sealability, barrier qualities (oil, gas, and water), cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and legal requirements. 

Wax paper sheets are ordinary household and industrial products used mainly for food-related purposes. They offer a range of benefits, such as moisture resistance, non-stick properties, and a protective barrier for food storage and preparation due to their wax-coated surface. 

This article explores the manufacturing process of wax paper sheets, the chemical components involved, and the reasons behind their selection for this particular application. Let’s get started! 

What Are Wax Paper Sheets?

Waxed paper sheets are also named as wax paper, wax sheet or paraffin paper. It is very lightweight and thin paper. The top features of wax paper are stable, moisture-resistant and non-stick. Wax is naturally made from paraffin wax or soybean oil. The wax sheet prevents the food from sticking and keeps the items fresh. It is frequently used in food packaging, baking, cooking and storage. 

What is the Manufacturing Process of Wax Paper Sheets? 

The manufacturing process of dry wax paper sheets involves different steps that start from paper production to the coating process and then produce the final product. This paper is sustainable and best for the use of food purposes. Below is a guide to the entire manufacturing process.

Paper Production

The method of creating wax paper begins with the production of the base paper. Base paper is made from wood pulp, which is processed into kraft paper sheets through a traditional paper-making procedure. This involves the following procedure:

Wood Pulping: It is the process where wood is split into a fibrous mass. It can be used in making paper and other related products. Some chemicals that are used during the pulping process like neutral sulfite semi-chemical, sulfite, and soda.

Sheet Formation: In this phase, a flat sheet is used and the fibres are spread on the whole surface of the sheet. The quality of the paper depends on the pulp quality and fibre distribution. Finally, the paper is pressed to take out the excess water through large drying machines. 

Calendering: The dried paper is surpassed via rollers referred to as calendars, which smooth the floor and control the thickness of the paper. 

Wax Coating

Once the base paper is prepared, the next step involves the utility of wax to create the water-resistant and non-stick residue function of wax paper squares. The most generally used wax for this process is paraffin wax which is used through distinctive waxes like soybean wax and microcrystalline wax. Here’s how the wax is applied:

Melting the Wax: On a large scale, wax is melted through large heat-safe containers. To melt the wax, the required temperature is 120°C. So, the liquid wax is applied to the paper to create a thin layer of wax. Here are the three common methods of applying wax on custom food wrapping papers in a very smooth way. 

Roll Coating: In this technique, a roller is applied with the wax coating on the flat surface.  The rollers assist in applying a thin, even layer of wax to the paper.

Dipping: The paper sheets are dipped into a tub of melted wax, and extra wax is removed by allowing the paper to drip or by pressing it.

Drying and Cooling: After the wax is applied, the paper is passed via cooling chambers or conveyor belts. The wax hardens because it cools, bonding firmly to the paper floor. 

Cutting into Sheets

The third step is cutting where the large rolls of wax paper are cut into required size sheets. Large cutting machines cut the paper into the desired sizes demanded by the clients. The dimensions of the sheets range depending on the intended use, however, they may be regularly reduced into standardized sizes for meal carriers or patron packaging.

Packaging

Once the wax paper sheets are cut, they may be carefully stacked and packaged for shipment. The packaging procedure guarantees that the wax paper sheets stay intact and undamaged for the duration of the garage and transportation. The paper is usually stacked in rolls or sheets, and the final product is prepared for distribution to food producers, stores, or customers.

What Is The Chemical Composition Of Wax Paper Sheets? 

Many Chemicals are used in making wax paper roll sheets. Wax paper is typically made with different types of coatings. The choice of chemicals is necessary to ensure the utility of the wax paper, such as its moisture resistance, non-stick properties, and overall durability. The recyclable or compostable wax paper helps to meet your sustainability goals. Here is the chemical composition of wax paper sheets: 

Paraffin wax                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  The main goal of paraffin wax is to create a wax layer on the paper. This wax is extracted from petroleum that has the properties to protect the food from moisture. It is best for meal packaging and garages. It is odourless, tasteless, and non-reactive. The reason why we use paraffin wax: 

• Non-toxicity
• Moisture Resistance
• Non-stick Properties

Soybean Wax

Soybean wax is extracted from soybeans. It is a herbal and plant-based wax. It is becoming more and more famous because of its green nature and renewable supply. Soybean wax has the properties of moisture resistance and non-stick capacity. It is a greater sustainable option for wax paper. Here are the reasons why we need to choose soybean wax for the food packaging: 

• Environmental Benefits
• Non-toxic and Safe
• Lower Melting Point

Microcrystalline Wax

It is a petroleum-based wax with a fine crystalline network. This wax helps in the production of wax paper because of its flexibility and higher resistance to cracking. Here is the reason why microcrystalline wax: 

• Flexibility
• Viscosity
• Oil retention
• Higher Melting Point

Final Thoughts! 

The production of wax paper sheets for restaurants involves a cautious and specific method of papermaking, wax coating, and cutting. Paraffin wax is used as a chemical for coating due to its non-toxicity, moisture resistance, and non-stick residues. 

Many options like soybean wax and microcrystalline wax offer precise benefits in terms of sustainability and versatility. By combining paper production with a specialised wax coating, wax paper turns into a versatile and critical tool in meal education, garages, and packaging.

Its effectiveness is a perfect chemical system used to create the wax coating, which ensures that the paper plays properly in diverse food-related packages.

Wax paper is standard equipment in many kitchens as it is commonly used for food wrapping, baking and cooking. Besides its obvious uses, many women use this paper for keeping cheese fresh, sifting flour or lining cake pans. So, custom wax papers have become a common accessory and food preparation help today. But one question that comes to the mind of everyone before putting your wax sheet-wrapped food in the oven is whether it is safe or not. But don’t worry this blog is all you need to know are oven and wax papers are rivals or friends. So if you want to get answers then delve deeper below!

What Is Wax Paper And How Is It Made?

Wax paper also known as paraffin paper is coated with a thin layer of wax to give maximum food safety. Its use is not limited to food but art/craft projects, polishing of metals, gift wrapping and medical applications. But do you ever think about how this paper is being made? Here’s a short overview of how these customized papers are manufactured before we continue what’s the role of wax paper in the oven:

• Step 1: Recycled paper or selected wood chips are mixed with water to create a pulp
• Step 2: A screen is used to remove impurities from the pulp
• Step 3: The water-dipped pulp is then polished for a uniform consistency
• Step 4: The refined pulp is bleached to improve the strength and colour
• Step 5: The wax coating is then applied to one of both sides
• Step 6: The coated sheets are then passed through rollers for a smooth outcome
• Step 7: At the end, the desired cuts are incorporated into the finished paper.

Can You Put Wax Paper In The Oven?

Let’s get to our main concern, whether the wax sheet is safe to put in the oven or not. The short answer is, It depends (on several factors) but mostly it’s a no. Here are some potential risks when you put food with this personalized paper in the oven:

Temperature Risks

Personalized waxpaper has a temperature limit and if that limit is exceeded then it may give harmful results. The melting point of wax sheets is around 82°C and surpassing this temperature can potentially release toxic fumes. So if you are still thinking of using them then make sure that the temperature does not go beyond the mentioned limit

The other temperature risk is wax roll can evenly distribute heat which can result in hotspots and fires. Also, if the waxpaper is exposed to heat for a long time then it may also lose its structural integrity.

Chemical Reaction Risks

Chemical reactions due to the use of wax paper sheets in the oven can occur for multiple reasons. When put in an oven the melting of wax can contaminate food and result in health risks. As we know different types of chemicals are used in the manufacturing of wax rolls like paraffin wax (a petroleum-based chemical), they can migrate in food thus again posing unhealthy eating.

Fire Risks

The heat sensitivity of wax-coated paper can increase the fire risks. The ignition temperature of these sheets is 200 °C and also the coating which is implemented on paper is highly flammable. So if you are still putting it in the oven, don’t forget to monitor the temperature and cooking time. 

A Short Oven Safety Guide On Wax Paper

After you have read all the potential risks that can occur by putting wax paper rolls in the oven, here is a short guide for more safe use:

Does Thickness Of Wax Paper Impact Its Use In The Oven? 

Now we have given you different categories to decide is wax paper toxic when baked or not. But wait, some other factors can impact the use of this water-resistant sheet in oven applications. Just like kraft paper, wax rolls are also thinner initially but their thicknesses can be customized according to requirements. can customizedHere are different thickness categories depending on their use in the oven:

Lightweight

Lightweight paper ranges from 30-40 GSM and is not recommended for use in an oven due to durability and high potential of wax melting.

Standard

Standard thickness ranges from 40-60 GSM and is slightly suitable for low-temperature oven use (avoid if you can).

Heavy duty

Heavy-duty thickness ranges from 60-80 GSM. This is ideal for moderate temperature because this is more durable than the previous two.

Extra heavy duty

The thickness level of the extra heavy-duty sheet is 80+. These wax paper sheets

can be used even in high temperatures but always keep in mind the type of wax incorporated on them.

How Do Printings Impact Its Oven Use?

We have to cover all the factors to analyze what makes wax sheets unsafe in the oven. First of all, it is the coating that is implemented in this paper which is not suitable for baking purposes. Thickness levels have separate categories, now let’s talk about whether printing can determine is wax paper oven safe or not.

Some printings can release toxic fumes when exposed to heat and contaminate food. So wrong printing choices can double their harmful impact. Some best practices for chemical-free printing on wax rolls are as follows:

• Ensure that printing techniques meet the food safety standards
• The use of biodegradable inks can reduce the bad impact
• Verify the printing compliance of manufactures
• Better to avoid printing if it’s not necessary

Replacement Of Wax Paper

The use of wax sheets under the oven is not considered good in most of the cases. The custom wax paper is not heat-resistant and can melt in the oven. Also, recyclable or compostable waxed sheets are not considered safe to be used in an oven. So what other option do we have? The best alternative is parchment paper. Parchment paper has non-stick properties and does not release chemicals during baking. So consider putting your hands on parchment paper rather than risking your health.

Conclusion

Custom wax paper is a common kitchen item in every household. It’s crucial to understand the limitations and safety considerations of its use in the oven. You must follow best practices and choose oven-safe paper to ensure a safe cooking experience. However, if you are looking for fully customized wax papers then hit us now. Waxpapers.co.uk is the most trusted paper manufacturing firm. Just visit our product library and choose the paper you desire!