Aluminum foil has a shiny side and a dull side, which has sparked debates about which side to use.
How Is Aluminum Foil Made?
Aluminum foil is made by rolling thick aluminum into thin sheets. The shiny side results from the rollers, while the dull side is pressed between two sheets. This difference is due to the manufacturing process, not any coating or treatment.
Does the Shiny Side Cook Better?
The shiny side doesn’t cook food any differently than the dull side. The difference in heat reflectivity is negligible and doesn’t affect the cooking process.
Is One Side Safer for Food?
Both sides are food-safe, but avoid letting foil touch acidic foods like tomato sauce for extended periods.
When Does the Side Matter?
The side matters only with non-stick foil, where the dull side has a coating. Always follow package instructions for best results.
