If you are a barbecue enthusiast or run a butcher shop, then butcher paper is your best friend. This humble, yet versatile paper has been used for decades by the meat industry to preserve the freshness and texture of meat. Unlike wax paper or plastic, butcher paper allowed the meat to breathe while protecting it from contaminants. Its unique properties make it just as indispensable today as it was years ago.
Butcher paper is available in the market in a variety of shapes and forms, each tailored to specific needs and applications. From the traditional white and pink butcher paper to the versatile peach-treated paper, understanding the differences can help you choose the right type for your needs. Here’s an in-depth look at the various kinds of butcher paper and their unique benefits.
What is butcher paper?
Butcher paper is typically made of a type of wood pulp known as kraft pulp which lends it durability and strength, which is essential since butcher paper’s primary use is to wrap heavy slabs of meat and poultry. Being moisture-resistant, butcher paper forms a barrier between the meat and the outside environmental elements such as light air and mold. Therefore, meat wrapped in butcher paper remains fresh for far longer than those without.
Over the years, different types of butcher papers have emerged. Some are plain brown, while others are white or even pink. The colors allow you to easily differentiate one type from the other in the store, so you don’t accidentally pick the wrong one.
Whatever butcher paper you purchase, it is paramount that it is of high quality. Low-quality butcher paper can have a detrimental effect on your meat, allowing moisture to seep through to damage the meat. The Deli Paper is a trusted provider of high-quality butcher paper in the market.
Brown butcher paper
The most common type of butcher paper is the standard brown butcher paper, also known as brown kraft paper. This is probably the cheapest butcher paper you will find in your local stores as it has undergone a minimum amount of industry processing. Its brown color is completely natural. It is ideal for wrapping meats, sandwiches, and other food items in a rustic, eco-friendly way. Brown butcher paper is also a favorite of crafters because of its sturdy nature and aesthetic appeal.
White butcher paper
Another favorite of butchers is white butcher paper which is also made out of kraft pulp but has undergone bleaching thus, the white color. This means that it costs slightly more than brown butcher paper but often, the difference in price is barely worth noticing. White butcher paper has more breathability than its unbleached cousin so that is why it is most commonly used for wrapping meat. It allows meat to breathe, therefore, preserving its freshness.
It’s plain, white, and smooth surface means that is an essential tool in any artist’s arsenal, ideally used for drawing, painting, and crafting. Its uses don’t just end there. Since white butcher paper has a very clean appearance, you can use it as a table covering during dinners. Anything spilled now won’t ruin your tabletop and it makes cleaning afterwards a breeze.
Pink butcher paper
Pink butcher paper, also known as peach butcher paper, is similar to white butcher paper but with a distinct pink hue. It is uncoated and breathable, making it a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts. Keep pink butcher paper on hand during your barbecue gatherings since it is ideal for smoking and grilling. It helps retain moisture in meats like brisket and ribs while allowing smoke to permeate. The result is meat that is bursting with flavor and has just the right texture.
Peach-treated butcher paper
This is a somewhat special kind of butcher paper. It has undergone a process that makes it way more resistant to moisture and grease. Although it is similar in color to pink butcher paper, it has a slightly different texture that makes it easily identifiable. But be warned, you may have to pay slightly extra for it because of the special processing it has gone through.
Now, you may be asking yourself: why spend extra on peach-treated butcher paper when you can just purchase the regular one? While you can certainly work with brown or white butcher paper when it comes to wrapping meat, cuts with higher fat content require additional protection and that is what peach-treated butcher paper provides.
Furthermore, it is very useful in professional kitchens for lining trays and pans, as it can withstand high temperatures and prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Now that you what each type of butcher paper offers, we trust you to make the right decision. The type of butcher paper you end up purchasing depends entirely on your special needs plus your budget. Choosing the right type of butcher paper can greatly enhance its effectiveness, whether you’re using it for wrapping meats, crafting, or cooking. So, what are you waiting for? Order custom butcher paper from The Deli Paper now!
