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Quick Answer: Yes, you can put parchment paper in the microwave. It may be scary to think of mixing paper with heat because paper products are generally flammable, but this one is designed to be microwave-safe.
First, let’s learn more about parchment paper…
What Is Parchment Paper?
Many bakers reach for parchment paper when making cookies since it creates a nonstick barrier between the baking sheet and the cookies.It can also be used in a similar fashion for cakes, breads and other baked goods.
But it can be tough to distinguish it from other baking paper products, like wax paper, let alone figure out if it’s microwavable.So what exactly is this product?
Parchment paper, or baking paper as it’s also called, is typically silicone-covered paper.The cellulose pulp it’s made up of undergoes a process of exposure to sulfuric acid or zinc chloride, fortifying its heat resistance and famous nonstick properties.
Though it may also keep foods from sticking, wax paper is very different as it’s layered with a waxy substance.However, both wax paper and parchment paper are microwavable.
Related Article: Can You Microwave Paper Towels?
In terms of functionality, the thing you need to remember about parchment paper is that it can be baked in the oven or microwaved.Wax paper can be microwaved, but it’s not safe for the oven.
Parchment paper can be a convenient material to pop in the microwave while you’re doing multi-step baking or cooking.It’s also an option if you just don’t have any other containers to heat something up in.
Want more information about microwave cooking?Read Best Microwave Toaster Oven Combo.
Different Types of Parchment Paper Products
Not all parchment paper products are the same.There are two main types that you can buy: the regular kind and the unbleached kind.
Standard white parchment paper has been bleached, or treated with chlorine, which makes it white.Brown parchment paper is unbleached, or not treated with chlorine.
Whether it’s bleached or not should not affect its microwavable nature.Rest assured that parchment paper is considered microwavable by theFood Safety and Inspection Service of the United States Department of Agriculture.
How Do You Know If a Paper Product Is Microwave Safe or Not?
You know now that parchment paper is microwavable, but it’s not easy to tell when the microwave is an off-limits zone for other paper products.
To be sure, check the packaging the item comes in.You’re looking for any written statement about microwaves, whether it says that it’s safe or unsafe for the microwave.
You can also check the manufacturer’s website.Often, companies will publicly answer common questions about their products, making the information relatively easy to find.
Lastly, look to government food safety resources.These may also post answers to questions about microwave safety, and they’re reliable.
Recommended Article: Can You Microwave Plastic Cups? (What You Need to Know)
Labels on Paper Products to Be Aware Of
Any label that shows the words “microwave safe” is an indication that a paper product is microwavable.
There could also be visual cues, like drawings of microwaves, that should be accompanied by clearly written language that says the item is or is not microwavable.
Bonus Safety Tips
- Don’t put any paper-based items in the microwave before you find out for sure what the microwavable status is.You don’t want any fire or other hazards to occur.
- If you bake with parchment paper, don’t put it on a rack super close to the heating element inside the oven.Parchment paper is heat-resistant, but it can still burn when it’s right by a heat source.
- Take the cautious route with recycled paper products and make sure that they are labelled as microwave-safe.You may not know all the materials that have been recycled to make them.
Do you have a small kitchen? If you’re looking for a microwave for compact spaces, check out our guide for the Best Microwave for College Dorm Room.
Further Reading: Can You Microwave Rubbermaid? (The Safety Tips You Need to Know)
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
