Parchment paper is a regular item that is found in everyone’s kitchen and many chefs around the world use this paper in their several cuisines.
And, slowly many users have also started using parchment paper in their homes. But, now the main question is whether parchment paper can be used in microwaves or not.
Many people say yes, some say no and some have mixed opinions. So what is the exact answer?
Parchment paper can go in the microwave, and one can use it easily and safely in the microwave. It is not like aluminum foil which is complicated or not friendly to use.
In this article, I have tried to discuss, whether one can use parchment paper for microwave purposes or not and have also talked about various other materials that could be considered microwave safe.
Types Of Parchment Paper
Contents
When you are looking for parchment paper in the market you will find there are two different types of parchment paper. One is bleached and the second type is unbleached.
The key difference between them is the color. Because it is manufactured using chlorine, bleached parchment paper is white.
Similarly, unbleached parchment paper is brown in color and free of chlorine. You can use any of them for baking or cooking because they are both viable options.
Parchment Paper (Bleached)
The bleached parchment paper is white because it is particularly prepared with the help of chlorine. Bleached parchment paper releases a chemical which is known as dioxin.
As we know parchment papers can be used in microwaves. But some people have mixed reviews regarding the bleached parchment paper.
Some people say it is not safe to use parchment paper for cooking because it consists of toxic dioxin which can get inside the food and damage it.
But, still, there hasn’t any proof because these dioxins are extremely very small and there are no proven side effects on health.
Parchment Paper (Unbleached)
The unbleached parchment paper is brown because it is not prepared with chlorine. Although some chemicals are used to prepare unbleached parchment paper they don’t have any dioxin which means they are dioxin free and are completely safe to use.
Secondly, unbleached parchment paper is highly preferred use in our day-to-day lives because it is toxin free. It is also known as the most finest and natural parchment paper which can be used for cooking.
It is popularly used for cooking food in the microwave. And, as it is natural and chemical free it also does not cause any side effects on health.
Microwave-Safe And Unsafe Paper
If you are putting any paper in the microwave then it is crucial to know which paper is safe and which paper is unsafe while putting it inside the microwave.
Parchment paper, wax paper, paper plates, paper towels, and bowls are considered in the safe category and everyone can use them in the microwave. But, if you are thinking newspapers can be also used then it is the wrong answer.
Because, when you put the newspaper inside the microwave the heat inside it will leach the entire ink and will spread on your entire dish.
Similarly, the brown paper bags are also red-flagged which means they are completely unsafe to use in the microwave because it is not capable to hold or withstand a heavy amount of heat and as a result, they will catch fire in the end.
They can also emit toxic fumes which consist of germs and harmful chemicals which can get passed on to the food.
Wax Paper
Some people also use wax paper in their microwave cooking but we would like to inform you that wax paper is not completely safe.
It is because the wax paper is not heat resistant product and one has to be very careful if they are using it.
Wax paper is made up of a very fine layer of paraffin wax. If it is heated appropriately the fats and sugars will melt the wax.Note: For melting the wax of the paper the temperature should reach about 200 degrees Fahrenheit (200°F).
Paper Towels
Many people place paper towels in the microwave to cover the food which will reduce splashing. But there are some rules which need to be strictly followed while using paper towels as they are also risky while using in microwave. The rules are as follows-
- Firstly, the user should read all the instructions
- Secondly, it is important to keep the paper towel folded and wrinkle-free. Because using a folded paper towel can increase the chances of catching fire.
- Lastly, never use recycled paper towels because they might have some traces of metal which can lead to a fire in the microwave.
Brown Paper Bags
Brown paper bags are completely unsafe to use in microwaves. Because this paper is very thin and made with only one single layer.
These bags are not capable to face health. Although, some bags are capable they release several toxic chemicals in the food which is harmful to health.
Newspaper
If you are thinking to use newspaper in the microwave then never do it. Because if you place newspaper in the microwave then its ink can spread into your delicious food and can harm it. Also, it is very easy for newspapers to catch fire.
How to Safely Microwave with Parchment Paper
While microwaving the food with parchment paper it is important to follow the guidelines. They are as follows:
- It is important to avoid heating oily or fatty foods for a long time
- Always check the packaging container of the parchment paper for a microwave-safe label
Microwave Safe Labels
When selecting parchment paper, always look for microwave-safe labels on the container. Simply put, it is a squiggly line logo or sign inside the microwave.
All the products do not have this symbol or logo because only specific products with certain check marks are eligible.
Can Parchment Paper Catch Fire in the Microwave?
Parchment paper is specially built for microwaving food inside the microwave. It is capable to heat up to 420°F.
But parchment paper can catch fire in the microwave. Food items consisting of high oil and fat like bacon can reach their high point and cause a fire.
What Is Parchment Paper Made From?
For developing parchment paper, cellulose fibers from several materials like flax or wood are used. The paper goes through multiple parchmentization procedures, including an acid bath and being coupled with fibers.
Finally, everything is combined and built, and a silicone coating is put on the paper, making it nonstick and heat resistant and ideal for use in the microwave.
The secondary name of parchment paper is known as baking paper. As it is very versatile because of being non-stick, odorless and moisture-proof bakers also use to use parchment paper and enjoy baking.
Why Doesn't Parchment Paper Absorb Microwave Radiation?
As you know, microwaves generate radiation but they release less amount of radiation. When you place parchment paper inside the microwave it does not have a permanent dipole such as water.
Hence, the majority of radiation doesn’t get absorbed and the parchment paper does not absorb microwave radiation.
Conclusion
Thus, now you know that parchment paper is one of the most essential additions to your kitchen. It could mainly be used while cooking foods that release a lot of oils.
Most importantly it is safe and friendly to use this paper in the microwave. But while using parchment paper make sure you follow all the methods so that the cooking process becomes easy for you.
If you haven’t tried using parchment paper in the microwave then try it once and you will find how it simplifies the cooking experience.