What is Greaseproof Paper? How is it Manufactured?

So, What Exactly is Greaseproof Paper?

It’s a paper made from high-quality cellulose pulp extracted from softwood or hardwood. The main quality is achievable through tight bonding that leaves no pore space for oil to travel through. This process is known as fibrillation - an extreme beating that reduces porosity, creating a structure that distinguishes a greaseproof paper from other ordinary papers.

The paper machine turns the pulp into a sheet. Further the steam-heated cylinders which press out the water bring forth something that looks like a paper but still not the grease defying achiever we want. That value is gained through the supercalendering process. It is a series of hard or soft rollers that presses the paper under high heat and temperature. This step

• Increases density
• Reduces porosity
• Give paper a glassine (translucent) like look
• Increased natural grease resistance without silicone coating

A Little Chemistry Goes a Long Way

Our custom greaseproof paper sheets are a mechanical marvel, still a light surface sizing takes things up a notch. Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), oxidized starch, Alkyl Ketene Dimer AKD, or Alginate. These sizing agents fill the microscopic gaps or pores and strengthen the sheet also resulting in improved runnability. Once the basic manufacturing steps are complete, a fully refined, compressed, and finished paper gets ready. And naturally people have questions reading its temperature tolerance and how well it performs in baking conditions. Get your complete guide on that in “can greaseproof paper be used for baking” having answers to all your questions.

Built Tight, Made Right - Inside the Specs

• Grammage - 28-70 GSM (Standard), 30-50 GSM, or 80-100+ GSM
• Range - 0.04-0.15 mm
• Density - 0.8-0.9 g/cc mm
• Opacity - 45-50% (for supercalendered sheets)
• Moisture Content - 5-7%
• Tensile Strength - MD 6,000-7,500m
• Heat Resistance - 200-220°C
• Surface Sizing - Oxidized starch, AKD, CMC
• Water Absorption - ≤ g/m² (Cobb: 1 min)

If you are new to greaseproof paper, our “ultimate guide to greaseproof paper” covers everything for a full overview from grades to performance.

Which Greaseproof Papers Can I Choose?

Greaseproof paper is versatile and serves many purposes providing a range of choice from which any individual can take maximum benefit. These can include;

By Weight

Greaseproof paper comes in different basis weights. The scope of usage changes with the weight of the paper.

• Lightweight A 20-35 GSM, economically viable paper. It is thin and flexible, best for everyday food wrapping.
• Medium Ranging from 35-50 GSM. best for restaurants and takeaway food wrapping. Perfectly balances strength and flexibility.
• Heavyweight A 50-80+ GSM paper used for heavier grease loads. Highly durable and dense.

By Appearance

Customization is present to enhance presentation because aesthetics matter. Choose between;

• Unbleached Kraft - natural, rustic look with artisanal aesthetics
• Bleached White - ideal for premium look with personalized branding and printing
• Colored - ideal for brand identity

By Finish

Finish is relevant as it directly impacts the performance. Machine finish gives the most natural look with matte finish and is slightly more porous. Supercalendered on the other hand has a much smoother look with semi-translucent finish. It is more appropriate for heavy greasy food items and premium presentation.

By Performance

Choose the best paper by its functionality. The standard greaseproof is great for everyday wraps. The high-grease resistant paper is best for food items with visible fats.

One important fact that needs to be considered here is that most uncoated greaseproof papers in both categories are microwave safe, but any coatings would make the paper contagious for oven use. Get more details on this aspect in “Can greaseproof paper go in the microwave?”

By Additives

Most commonly used is uncoated greaseproof paper, since it provides clean food contact and brings a natural grease resistance. Meanwhile, the barrier enhancing greaseproof paper are surface sized, all are food-grade but can impact the recyclability of the paper. Additionally, silicone-coated sheets are also available, which are suitable for moisture-heavy foods.

Once you have figured out which type is best for you, here's where you can get the complete information on “Where can I buy greaseproof paper?”.

Wrapping It All Up

With so many finishes, grades, and performance levels available, choosing the right kind of printable greaseproof paper simply comes down to understanding the strengths of the paper with your cooking or packaging needs. All the trick lies in choosing the one that plays nicely with your food and aligns perfectly with your kitchen routine. Our comprehensive guides surely help in your decision-making process.