Wax Paper vs Parchment Paper: What's the Difference?

Composition and Uses

Wax paper is produced by applying the wax to one side of the paper, making it nonstick and water-resistant. It is often used to wrap sandwiches, such as hamburgers and kebabs as well as other food items and in cooking, where it may be used to prevent the ingress of water or grease. Baking Parchment Paper, on the other hand, is coated with silicone, rendering it heat-resistant and nonstick. It is frequently processed into baking squares or chips because it retains an appealing texture at baking temperatures.

Nonstick Qualities

Wax paper and parchment paper both have nonstick-releasing powers, but wax paper lacks the heat resistance that parchment paper has. Wax paper isn't recommended for using with the oven at high heat, because the wax can melt or even catch on fire. Parchment paper is also reusable, and can generally be used several times, while wax paper, once used, is usually thrown away.

Heat Resistance

Parchment paper can leave marks on the bottom of your cake or cookie, and it's also a bit more heat resistant than wax, so it can be used in the oven. Wax paper should not be in the oven as the wax can smoke and catch fire. Parchment paper is heat-resistant up to 450 degrees, a great choice for baking cookies, cakes, and pastries.

Environmental Impact

In terms of eco-friendliness, parchment paper is the more sustainable choice. Parchment paper is biodegradable and compostable, which is good for food storage. Wax paper, on the other hand, is not biodegradable and takes a while to decompose in landfills. Environmentally, there is no better option, if you're thinking about the cooking parchment paper.