Reusable baking paper in food production – what are the benefits?

What is reusable baking paper?

Reusable baking foil is a special type of baking foil that is placed over the baking tray and, in some cases, over the grill. It is made from heat-resistant materials such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, also known as Teflon), fibreglass mesh and/or silicone. Unlike the traditional version, it is significantly more durable and reusable. It remains effective even at temperatures of around 260 °C. Furthermore, these sheets feature a non-stick coating that makes them easy to clean, as well as offering high flexibility and adaptability. Some baking sheets can even be cut to size without any loss of quality. Last but not least, they are usually food-safe, ensuring that they do not release any particles or flavour when in direct contact with food. In other words, they are flavourless.

Baking paper vs. reusable baking foil: a comparison

The question keeps cropping up as to which product is better: baking paper or reusable baking foil. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as it also depends on the intended use. In food production, ovens often run for hours on end, so constantly replacing baking paper – a disposable product – is a hassle. A quick clean of the reusable baking sheet at the end of the day is often more practical. Furthermore, reusable baking sheets with a non-stick coating are tear-resistant, which is not the case with ordinary baking paper.

If you have a high volume of use, the cost should not be underestimated either, as reusable baking sheets may be more expensive to buy initially, but they last considerably longer, meaning the investment usually pays for itself quickly. This also helps to reduce waste. Furthermore, reusable baking sheets can withstand higher temperatures than traditional baking paper. Neither is cut-resistant, which is why it is not advisable to cut food whilst it is still on the sheet. If the baking foil is badly damaged, it should no longer be used. With baking foil, as with baking paper, there is no need to grease the baking tray thoroughly.

If we compare the disposal of both products, it is clear that neither is recyclable. Whilst baking paper does generate significantly more waste, the incineration of reusable baking foil also produces toxic gases at the waste-to-energy plant. This is yet another reason to ensure the foils are handled correctly, so that they can be used for as long as possible.

How do you clean reusable baking sheets?

Cleaning reusable baking sheets usually takes just a few simple steps – it is important to ensure they have cooled down first. Either hold the sheet under running water and, if desired, scrub it with a little washing-up liquid and a sponge. Alternatively, for light soiling, you can wipe it with a damp cloth. Our baking sheet is even dishwasher-safe, so it can also be easily cleaned in the dishwasher.

Particularly given that the sheets are not recyclable, it is advisable to handle the reusable baking sheets with a non-stick coating with care. This will enable them to reach their target of up to 1,000 uses and thus be as sustainable as possible. A major advantage is that the sheet can be used on both sides.

Baking big dreams with Ehlert

Reliable and efficient equipment is an asset to any business – whether it’s the little restaurant round the corner or a large-scale industrial biscuit factory. Gustav Ehlert GmbH supplies the necessary equipment for this. In addition to baking release sheets and permanent baking sheets with a Teflon coating in various sizes, a range of other useful items for food production are available. For example, suitable workwear.

And beyond that, too, we can provide you with reliable and tailored support. From machinery and tools right through to packaging, as supply chain specialists we enhance your food production in a variety of ways. We are guided by the expertise gained over a century of working in this industry – both as a partner and a supplier.