Different types of foil papers and food wraps and which should be used when

When it comes to food storage (cooked or raw), putting them in a container is not the end of the task. It is important to understand that every food acts and reacts to its surroundings and hence it is important to shield them right. And that is where food storage wraps come into picture. While the market is flooded with a lot of options to explore, the key storage wraps are of five varieties. Let us understand what these different varieties are, how they help with food storage and mistakes one should avoid while using them.

What it is: It is also called the shield and can be heated safely up to 1200°F. It is said to protect the food from drying out while preventing odors from permeating into other foods. It is made with extracted bauxite ore, which is refined into alumina and then smelted to produce aluminium.
How does it work: It blocks light and air and helps with cooking.
Avoid: It is suggested to avoid it combining with acidic foods, as it may react and cause health issues.

What it is: It is called the baker's fried, and is oven safe to 420-450°F. It is also useful for retaining moisture and that's why people use it for steaming too.
How does it work: The smooth texture makes it non-sticky and easy to clean with respect to sticky dough and preparations related to baking. The paper may get saturated with moisture during this process, but it stays strong and makes cleanup easy!
Avoid: It is not safe under broiler and one should avoid the practice.

What it is: It is called 'The Preserver' and is mostly used for fridge storage and keeping the food fresh.
How does it work: It locks the moisture and keeps the food fresh and safe. It is perfect for airtight fridge storage of raw and cooked food too and it is suggested to use only microwave-safe wrap, so that it can be used while reheating the food as well.
Avoid: Never use it for regular oven or on stovetop.

What it is: It is a lightweight paper coated with a thin layer of food-grade wax and is very similar to parchment paper and is used to prevent the food from sticking to various surfaces. It is also called the cooler, and is best for cold storage of cooked and even raw foods. It is ideal for cold sandwiches and even dough.
Avoid: It should never be heated as it may catch fire and cause damages.

What it is: It is a type of wrap which is coated with a thin layer of food-grade wax, but only one one side. It is designed to freeze meat with the waxed side against the meat itself.
How does it work: The wax prevents moisture loss and protects the surface of the meat, while the other side can be used to date and label them for easy use.
Avoid: Avoid putting them into the oven or on the stovetop, as they might burn.

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