Aluminum foil is an important tool in any restaurant or large kitchen, used for storing, cooking, and wrapping food. It can handle high temperatures and keep things cold, so it’s reliable for many kitchen tasks. Let’s explore the different types of aluminum foil, how to use them, and what to consider when choosing the right one for your needs.
Aluminum Foil Thickness
When choosing foil, think about its thickness, often called “standard” or “heavy-duty.” This is measured in gauge—a bigger number means thicker foil, which is stronger against punctures and tears.
Gauges for our aluminum foil include:
- Standard-Duty: About 0.00062 inches or 55 gauge; versatile for general kitchen tasks
- Heavy-Duty: Around 0.0009 inches or 80 gauge; more resistant to wear and tear
- Extra Heavy-Duty: Approximately 0.0013 inches or 135 gauge; excellent for freezing and high heat
Types of Aluminum Foil
Selecting the right thickness keeps food safe and fresh. Consider what you’ll be wrapping and how much protection you need when choosing foil for your kitchen.
Standard-Duty Aluminum Foil
This foil is between 0.0006 and 0.0007 inches thick, cost-effective, and widely used in kitchens. We offer non-stick standard foil, great for tasks like melting cheese, grilling fish, and covering lasagnas as they bake.
Uses for Standard-Duty Foil:
- Wrapping baked potatoes and sandwiches
- Covering steam table pans (not for transport)
- Covering foil steam table pans
Heavy-Duty Aluminum Foil
About 0.0009 inches thick, heavy-duty foil is designed to withstand wear and tear, making it ideal for steam table pans, as they might bend during transport.
Uses for Heavy-Duty Foil:
- Lining ovens and grill grates
- Lining pans for baking, broiling, and roasting
- Serving as a durable, disposable lid
- Covering steam table pans for transport
- Covering full-size foil steam table pans
Extra Heavy-Duty Aluminum Foil
This thicker, stronger foil is perfect for high-heat cooking, freezing, and wrapping large items. Typically around 0.0013 inches thick, it provides great strength and heat retention, and it helps keep food fresh in the freezer by protecting it from freezer burn and odors.
Uses for Extra Heavy-Duty Aluminum Foil:
- Line pans to retain heat.
- Wrap meats for roasting or grilling.
- Protect pans during transport by using as a lid.
- Prevent freezer burn and stop flavors from mixing.
Choosing Between Aluminum Foil Rolls and Sheets:
For your commercial kitchen, opt for either rolls or sheets based on needs.
Aluminum Foil Rolls:
- Customizable length, perfect for large dishes or various food sizes.
- Available in lengths from 25 to 1000 feet. Common widths: 12″, 15″, 18″, 24″.
- Versatile use, can line pans or wrap foods.
Aluminum Foil Sheets:
- Pre-cut and convenient for quick use.
- Ideal for single servings, tray lining, or smaller dishes.
- Handy for preparing burgers, hot dogs, or sides at snack bars or fast food places.
- Some have honeycomb design for heat retention.
Popular sizes: 9″ x 10 3/4″, 12″ x 10 3/4″, 14″ x 16″.
Aluminum Foil Features:
- Insulated: Keeps food warm and fresh, suitable for catering and deliveries.
- Kosher: Suitable for specific dietary requirements.
- Non-Stick: Prevents sticking, making cooking and cleaning simpler.
- Oven Safe: Can be used for high-temperature cooking and baking.
- Recycled Content: Environmentally friendly choice.