Wrap It Right: A Closer Look at Butcher Paper for Commercial Kitchens
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Time to read 3 min
What Is Butcher Paper?
Butcher paper is a food-safe kraft paper used in commercial kitchens to wrap, store, and prepare food. It’s common in butcher shops, bakeries, and restaurants, where it supports everything from meat storage to sandwich wrapping and prep station lining.
Available in different weights and finishes, butcher paper can be white or brown, coated or uncoated, and is selected based on moisture level, durability, and the type of food being handled. At Baker’s Authority, we stock high-volume rolls in multiple weights and finishes to suit a wide range of foodservice uses.
Types of Butcher Paper
White Butcher Paper
White butcher paper is uncoated, FDA-approved, and safe for direct contact with food. Its clean appearance makes it ideal for delis, bakeries, and prep lines.
This paper is breathable, which prevents sogginess, and strong enough to wrap sandwiches, pastries, or even fresh meat cuts. It’s also used to line bakery boxes, cake boards, and prep surfaces.
Color: Bright white
Texture: Smooth
Best Uses: Sandwich wraps, bakery trays, box lining, food prep
Available at Baker’s Authority:
White Kraft 24" Butcher Roll Paper – 20 lbs (1 Roll)
MG15 Brown Butcher Paper
MG15 is a medium-weight brown butcher paper. It provides enough strength for light meats, sandwich wrapping, and baked goods while staying easy to fold and wrap.
This paper is ideal for general-purpose kitchen use and works well for presentation in butcher cases or baked goods displays.
Color: Natural brown
Texture: Slightly coarse
Best Uses: Sandwiches, deli meats, baked goods, light trays
Available at Baker’s Authority:
Paper Roll Butcher MG15
MG18 Brown Butcher Paper
MG18 butcher paper is thicker and stronger, ideal for wrapping heavier cuts of meat or use in BBQ kitchens. It allows smoke to pass through without trapping steam, which makes it suitable for briskets and ribs during the cooking process.
MG18 can also be used for lining large bakery trays or wrapping dense baked products like loaves or trays of bars.
Color: Natural brown
Texture: Strong, tear-resistant
Best Uses: Brisket, barbecue meats, smoked proteins, heavy-duty lining
Available at Baker’s Authority:
Paper Roll Butcher MG18
Butcher Paper Substitutes
If butcher paper runs out in the kitchen, several materials can be used as short-term alternatives. However, each comes with tradeoffs.
Freezer Paper
Coated on one side with plastic. Better for freezing meats but not ideal for cooking or smoking due to its non-breathable coating.
Parchment Paper
Used in baking for its non-stick coating. Works for some wrapping but is thinner and not moisture resistant.
Foil
Retains moisture and heat well but does not allow air to circulate. It softens crusts and can alter texture in BBQ applications.
Plastic Wrap
Useful for cold storage or display wrapping but not suited for heat. Should not be used on smokers or grills.
Butcher Paper vs. Other Papers
Table 1: Butcher Paper vs. Parchment Paper
| Feature | Butcher Paper | Parchment Paper |
|---|---|---|
| Breathability | High | Low to moderate |
| Moisture Resistance | Moderate | High (due to coating) |
| Best Use | Wrapping, lining, prep | Baking and non-stick use |
Table 2: Butcher Paper vs. Freezer Paper
| Feature | Butcher Paper | Freezer Paper |
|---|---|---|
| Coated | No | Yes (polyethylene) |
| Best Use | Fresh prep, smoking | Cold storage, freezing |
| Breathability | High | None |
FAQs About Butcher Paper
Can I use butcher paper in a smoker?
Yes. MG18 brown butcher paper is breathable and suitable for smoking meats like brisket and ribs. It holds moisture without trapping steam.
What size rolls are available at Baker’s Authority?
We offer 20 lb white butcher paper rolls and MG15 and MG18 brown paper rolls in standard commercial widths. Each roll is designed for high-volume kitchens.
Can I bake with butcher paper?
Butcher paper is not designed for high-heat baking and should not be used in place of parchment paper inside ovens. It works best for wrapping and prep.
Can you write on butcher paper?
Yes. Both white and brown butcher paper can be written on using pens or markers, making it useful for labeling, signage, or custom wraps.
Is butcher paper recyclable?
Plain butcher paper without coating is typically recyclable. Always check local guidelines, especially if food residue is present.
Is MG15 or MG18 better for bakery use?
MG15 is better for wrapping and lighter baked goods. MG18 is more durable and suited for heavy loaves, trays, or moisture-prone items.
Final Notes
Butcher paper is more than just wrapping; it's a workhorse in any commercial kitchen. Whether you need a clean surface for prep, a moisture-managing wrap for smoked meats, or a crisp presentation for baked goods, the right paper makes the job easier. Baker’s Authority carries multiple weights and sizes to support kitchens that move fast and prep at scale.
Order the right roll today and keep your kitchen well-stocked.