Can Greaseproof Paper Go in the Microwave?

Is Greaseproof Paper Safe in the Microwave?

In short Yes - but with many preconditions that one should never ignore if they want to protect their food. The quick tidbits that change the microwave safety includes;

• Coatings
• Food’s moisture and grease level
• Thickness of paper
• Laminations

What Makes a Greaseproof Paper Microwave Safe?

Greaseproof paper is made through densification and supercalendering methods, giving the paper a natural, heat-resistant property. The heated dry rollers press the paper under controlled pressure and heat. The low permeability prevents the oil from soaking. The major factor that makes the greaseproof paper microwave safe is the absence of any wax coating or laminations.

The neutral material doesn’t melt, spark, or smoke in the microwave. If you are curious how greaseproof paper got these materials and are so durable and heat-ready, dive into the manufacturing story here - What is greaseproof paper? How is it manufactured?

Why it’s Not Safe to Use in Microwave

A paper with silicone coating has higher heat resistance, so a greaseproof paper coated with silicone would easily turn brown before your food even gets heated. Wax coatings would eventually melt when they came in contact with heat. Apart from that some customers choose metallic inks which can ignite the paper in the microwave.

To enhance your knowledge more into all kinds of greaseproof paper our “Ultimate guide to greaseproof paper” covers everything providing you all necessary information.

Heat the Food Slow and Steady

It is recommended to reheat food between 1-5 minutes. Check the moisture levels of the food for long-term heating. A personalized greaseproof paper is best to use with pastries, sandwiches, pizza slices, wraps, and takeaway items. Same is the case with ovens. Greaseproof paper has heat resistance of around 120-180°C and hence not suitable for oven use or cooking. We have covered the baking abilities in here “Can greaseproof paper be used for baking?”

How to Check if your Paper is Microwave Safe?

Sometimes it is really hard to know about the specifications of a custom food paper by just looking at it. Most of the papers have similar textures or outlook, confusing what to do with them. For the sake of your safety - Always check the packaging labels. Every batch of our company while packaging, clearly details the cautions and materials. Always look for labels

• Uncoated
• Microwave safe
• Silicone-based release

If by any chance you have lost the packaging and are now worried whether to use it in the microwave or not. We’ll tell you how to test it. You can conduct a quick home-test by microwaving a small piece of paper with a cup of water for 60 seconds. If it gets brown avoid using it and if it turns sticky or waxy - then definitely not use it in the microwave as it contains wax coating or other laminations.

Before You Reheat

What people don’t realize is that greaseproof paper is far more capable than what they think of it. This also includes handling a quick spin in the microwave. It is the most commonly available paper with far-reaching advantages. This paper can never go wrong as long as you choose the right type and follow the basic safety steps.

It’s one of the safest, handiest, and mess-free helpers in the kitchen. So, if you are ready to choose the right microwave-safe greaseproof paper, we have gathered up places to buy reliable, food-grade options, look into our “Where can I buy greaseproof paper?” and choose what’s best for you and your brand.