Wax paper

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wax paper

Wax paper (also called waxed paper) is a kind of paper that is made moisture proof through the application of wax.

The practice of oiling parchment or paper in order to make it semi-translucent or moisture-proof goes back at least to medieval times. Thomas Edison claimed to have invented wax paper in 1872, but what he really invented was a cheap and efficient means to manufacture such paper.^[1]

Wax paper is commonly used in cooking, for its non-stick properties, and wrapping food for storage, as it keeps water out or in. It is also used in arts and crafts.

1 Food Preparation
2 Other Uses
3 References
4 See also

[edit] Food Preparation

Oven: While wax paper is flammable, it can and is used safely in numerous baking applications. In baking quick breads or cakes, a pan can be lined with wax paper in such a way that the batter completely covers the surface of the wax paper lining. This prevents the bread or cake from sticking to the pan in the lined area, aiding in removal of the baked product.

Microwave: Wax paper can function as a splatter cover in microwave cooking. Because the paper is mostly unaffected by microwaves, it will not heat to the point of combustion under normal usage. This makes wax paper more functional than plastic wrap which will melt at lower temperatures, or aluminium foil (or tin foil) which will block microwaves, preventing the covered foodstuff from heating.

[edit] Other Uses

Wax paper is also used in the manufacture of some less expensive models of the kazoo.

Another use of wax paper is to apply wax to objects. By rubbing the wax paper on an object the wax will rub off the paper and onto the object. This is useful for adding a slight polish or to reduce friction.

Wax paper can also be used to block smells.