Why Doesn't Parchment Paper Burn in the Oven?

Parchment paper is a special paper often used for cooking. The paper itself is often considered to be a substitution for wax paper. Parchment paper can be used in most situations that calls for wax paper. It should be noted, however, that wax paper can not be substituted for jobs that specifically require parchment paper because it will cause the oven to smoke.

Why so durable?

Manufacturers make baking parchment paper by running sheets or strips of paper pulp through sulfuric acid. After this is done, the chemicals are washed off before it dries.

What does the sulfuric acid do to it?

This process creates a high-density, heat-resistant paper. This process also gives the paper nonstick properties, which are actually due in part to the surface tension being significantly lowered by the sulfuric acid bath process.

Amazing, but what good does it do me?

Parchment paper's nonstick features are useful when making things like cookies. Another style of cooking it is used for is called "En Papillote," in which food is wrapped in parchment paper and then cooked. Yet perhaps the greatest feature is the durability: one sheet of parchment paper can be used multiple times.

Considerations

The real, honest, down-to-earth answer on why parchment paper doesn't burn in the oven is simply because the way it is made allows it to be extremely durable and heat resistant.

Limitations

Parchment paper is a great invention and its durability is surely impressive. But, like everything else, it has its limitations. Most parchment paper boxes set a heat limit. It is good up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and 220 degrees Celsius. Make note of this when baking and use responsibly.

References

• Overview on Parchment Paper in Cooking

Resources

• Where to purchase parchment paper