Baking paper is a staple in most kitchens, used for lining pans and baking sheets to prevent food from sticking. But have you ever wondered how this handy kitchen material is made? In this article, we will explore the process of making baking paper, from the raw materials to the finished product.
The History of Baking Paper
Baking paper, also known as parchment paper, has been used in cooking for centuries. The ancient Egyptians used papyrus to line baking sheets, while the Greeks and Romans used sheets of dough to line baking trays. Parchment paper, made from animal hides, was first used in Europe in the 15th century. It wasn’t until the 19th century that baking paper as we know it today was invented.
The Invention of Baking Paper
In 1856, a Frenchman named Gustave Le Paige invented baking paper. He coated paper with a solution of silicone, which made it non-stick and heat-resistant. This made baking easier and more efficient, as the need for greasing baking trays was eliminated. It also helped to prevent food from sticking to the tray, making it easier to clean up after baking.
The Manufacturing Process
Baking paper is made from wood pulp that is bleached and processed. The pulp is mixed with chemicals and water to create a pulp slurry, which is then spread onto a large screen. The screen is then passed through a series of rollers that squeeze out the excess water and flatten the pulp into a thin sheet.
Key takeaway: Baking paper is
a versatile and environmentally friendly option for cooking and baking. It is coated with silicone, making it non-stick, heat-resistant, and easy to clean. However, it should not be reused and is not a suitable replacement for greaseproof paper. Baking paper is an affordable option and can be purchased in rolls or sheets for various needs.
Coating the Paper
Once the paper has been formed, it is coated with a layer of silicone. This is done by passing the paper through a bath of silicone, which coats the paper on both sides. The silicone is then cured, or dried, by passing the paper through an oven. This process ensures that the silicone is evenly distributed and adheres to the paper.
The Benefits of Baking Paper
Baking paper has many benefits, including:
One key takeaway from this text is that baking paper, also known as parchment paper, has a long history dating back to ancient Egypt, where papyrus was used to line baking sheets. It wasn’t until the 19th century that baking paper as we know it today was invented by a Frenchman named Gustave Le Paige, who coated paper with silicone to make it non-stick and heat-resistant. Baking paper has many benefits, including being non-stick, heat-resistant, easy to clean, versatile, and environmentally friendly. However, there are misconceptions about baking paper such as it can be reused or used in place of greaseproof paper. In reality, baking paper should not be reused, and it is not a suitable replacement for greaseproof paper as it can affect the texture and appearance of some foods. Despite these misconceptions, baking paper is an affordable option for cooking and baking, and can be purchased in bulk for even greater savings.
Non-Stick
Baking paper is coated with silicone, which makes it non-stick. This means that food will not stick to the paper, making it easier to remove from the baking tray.
Heat-Resistant
Baking paper is heat-resistant, which means that it can withstand high temperatures without burning or breaking down. This makes it ideal for baking, as it can be used in ovens and microwaves.
Easy to Clean
Baking paper is easy to clean, as food does not stick to it. It can be wiped clean with a damp cloth or washed in the sink.
Versatile
Baking paper is versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including baking, cooking, and wrapping food.
Environmentally Friendly
Baking paper is biodegradable and can be composted, making it an environmentally friendly option for cooking and baking.
Misconceptions about Baking Paper
There are some misconceptions about baking paper that need to be addressed:
It can be Reused
Baking paper should not be reused, as the silicone coating can break down and release harmful chemicals when exposed to high temperatures.
It can be Used in Place of Greaseproof Paper
Baking paper is not a suitable replacement for greaseproof paper, as it is coated with silicone, which can affect the texture and appearance of some foods.
It is Expensive
Baking paper is an affordable option for cooking and baking, and can be purchased in bulk for even greater savings.
Bleaching and Finishing
After the paper has been coated with silicone and cured, it is bleached to give it a white color. The paper is then finished by passing it through a series of rollers that smooth out any wrinkles or imperfections.
Cutting and Packaging
Once the paper has been finished, it is cut into sheets of various sizes and packaged for distribution. Baking paper can be purchased in rolls or sheets, depending on the needs of the consumer.
FAQs – How Baking Paper is Made
What is baking paper?
Baking paper is a special type of paper that is used in baking, cooking and food hygiene. It is usually coated with a non-stick surface and can withstand high temperatures of up to 220°C in the oven.
How is baking paper made?
Baking paper is made from wood pulp that is pulped and mixed with water to create a paper pulp. The pulp is then rolled out into a thin sheet and put through a series of refining and drying processes. Once the paper is dried, it is coated with silicone or a silicone-based substance, which makes it non-stick and resistant to high temperatures.
What type of wood pulp is used in baking paper?
Baking paper is usually made from virgin wood pulp, that is, pulp that has not been previously used or recycled. This ensures that the baking paper is high-quality and free of any contaminants that might be present in recycled pulp.
What is the purpose of using silicone on baking paper?
Silicone is used on baking paper to create a non-stick surface that makes it easy to remove baked goods from the paper. The silicone also helps to prevent food from sticking to the paper, which makes cleaning up after baking much easier.
Is baking paper safe to use?
Yes, baking paper is safe to use in cooking and baking applications. The silicone coating used on the paper is generally considered safe for food contact and has been approved by regulatory bodies such as the FDA and EU food safety authorities. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and to avoid using baking paper at temperatures that exceed its recommended maximum temperature.
