Cooking Smoked Foods with Butcher Paper: Is the Plastic Lining Safe?

Smoking foods is a time-honored tradition that imparts a unique flavor to meats, fish, and other foods. One of the tools often used in this process is butcher paper, a type of paper that is often coated with a thin layer of plastic or wax. However, some people have raised concerns about the safety of cooking smoked foods with butcher paper due to this plastic lining. In this article, we will delve into the safety aspects of using butcher paper in cooking smoked foods.

What is Butcher Paper?

Butcher paper is a type of kraft paper, often used in butcheries and meat processing plants to wrap fresh meats. It’s durable, resistant to tearing, and has a smooth side that’s often coated with a thin layer of plastic or wax to provide a moisture barrier. This coating helps to keep the meat fresh by preventing the exchange of moisture between the meat and the surrounding air.

Is the Plastic Lining on Butcher Paper Safe for Cooking?

When it comes to cooking, especially smoking foods, the safety of the plastic lining on butcher paper is a valid concern. The key factor here is the type of plastic used in the lining. Food-grade plastics, which are plastics deemed safe for contact with food by regulatory authorities like the FDA, are generally safe to use in cooking. However, when these plastics are exposed to high temperatures, they can potentially leach chemicals into the food.

Most butcher paper is lined with polyethylene, a type of food-grade plastic. Polyethylene is considered safe for use in cooking at temperatures up to 220 degrees Fahrenheit. However, smoking foods often involves temperatures higher than this, which could potentially cause the polyethylene to break down and leach into the food.

Alternatives to Butcher Paper for Smoking Foods

If you’re concerned about the potential risks of using butcher paper with a plastic lining for smoking foods, there are alternatives you can consider:

• Parchment Paper: Parchment paper is a heat-resistant paper that’s safe to use in cooking. It’s often used in baking, but it can also be used in smoking foods. However, it doesn’t have the same moisture-retaining properties as butcher paper.
• Aluminum Foil: Aluminum foil is another alternative that’s safe to use in cooking. It’s heat-resistant and has excellent moisture-retaining properties. However, some people prefer not to use aluminum foil due to concerns about aluminum leaching into food.

In conclusion, while butcher paper with a plastic lining can be used for smoking foods, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks, especially when cooking at high temperatures. If you’re concerned, consider using alternatives like parchment paper or aluminum foil.