Aluminum foil is a very useful metal derivative in the kitchen. Did you know that it should be used with the shiny side facing in?
Aluminum is one of the most used metals in the world, second only to steel. Among buildings, car structures and windows and doors, one of the common uses of metal is aluminum foil. It is always very present in the kitchen and is an important assistant for those who like to cook.
Used in cooking, it is part of the recipe for many dishes. To roast meat in the oven, for example, it is necessary to wrap it in aluminum foil so that it does not lose its juiciness. Furthermore, it helps to wrap food to keep it warm at all times.
However, its use still raises many doubts. Surely, when using aluminum foil you have already asked which side to use. Is the matte part up or down? A very common question, and one that leaves everyone who uses it confused. Therefore, it is important to check the correct way to ensure success when cooking.
What is the correct side of aluminum foil?
After all, which is the correct side to use aluminum foil? As much as most people put the shiny side out, this technique is wrong! The correct thing to do is to leave the matte part on the outside and the shiny part on the inside. Only this way can you get the desired result when you need to use it.
The shiny part, as it is smoother, does not allow food to stick to the paper, preventing adhesion. Another reason is linked to hot flashes. Since the shiny side is more reflective, by placing it inside, you prevent the heat of the food from escaping and allow for faster and more effective cooking. Cooking becomes easier this way.
So, if your intention is to heat the food, this is the way to go. However, there are cases where, depending on your intention, it may be more convenient to use the matte side inside. Using aluminum foil in reverse is the case for those who do not intend to bake the food, but rather to cool it or just keep it at room temperature.
Aluminum foil controversies
Even though it is highly effective in the oven, there are studies that do not support the combination of metal with heat. The use of aluminum foil has even been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. However, there is still no concrete evidence that, in fact, its continuous use triggers the disease.
With the heat, the particles in the aluminum come loose from the paper and pass into the food. Therefore, in large quantities, with food that spends a long time exposed in the oven with aluminum foil, it can cause problems. The particles that are released affect the cells of our body, especially those of the bones. This makes it difficult for calcium to be absorbed.
Therefore, with the non-absorption of this mineral, it accumulates in the blood, disrupting blood circulation and the functioning of the parathyroid. Furthermore, excess aluminum in the blood can serve as a trigger for Alzheimer’s, since the blood also circulates through the nervous system. Studies indicate that patients with the condition have high doses of the metal in the brain. This would possibly be the result of a lifetime in contact with aluminum.
As much as many argue that for this to happen it is necessary to have a predisposition to this evil, this is no longer certain. Members of the Brazilian Academy of Neurology (ABN) state that it is possible to trigger the disease without even having a genetic predisposition.
Controversies
Even though the disease is part of the aging process for many people, the ideal is to avoid exposing yourself to risks that could cause it when possible. On the other hand, it is worth remembering that to age healthily, it is not just about avoiding exposure to this specific metal, but also to all other heavy metals that we encounter in everyday life.
However, ABN still says that small uses, such as aluminum foil, when controlled, do not cause as much harm. The use of aluminum foil, when used correctly, greatly reduces the absorption of metal by food, making it better for us. However, if you have the option of not using it, it is even better. An alternative, for example, is the use of cellophane paper, which, although not as effective, is a more natural and non-toxic solution.
ABAL, the Brazilian Aluminum Association, was also against the non-use of aluminum foil, even providing a survey carried out by the Packaging Technology Center (CETEA) refuting the controversy. Research says that only 2% of the metal is diluted in the food cooking process. This amount is practically irrelevant to our body, according to CETEA.
Other uses for aluminum foil
What many don’t know is that in addition to its kitchen purpose, aluminum foil is widely used in other everyday activities. A way that few know is to remove rust, stains and moisture from rusty objects. With just a square of aluminum foil, you can rub it on the material and remove the unwanted material without scratching the material underneath.
Another use is to sharpen scissors, knives and pliers
. You need to be very careful not to cut yourself. With just six to eight layers it is possible to leave sharp objects cutting. Furthermore, with the same function for baking dishes, the shiny side of the paper helps when ironing clothes. Using this way makes them iron more quickly. In short, it also reduces energy expenditure.
Finally, when painting furniture, objects, walls and floors, aluminum foil has its function. By covering the parts you don’t want to paint, it’s easier not to make a mess and make mistakes. The good thing about this technique is that the aluminum foil is moldable and easy to place.
How to discard
Disposing of aluminum foil is easy, as it is recyclable. Depending on its use, it can go straight to the recyclable bin. However, if it is used for cooking, it must be sanitized before disposal, as it contains organic remains.
So, whatever your paper is used for, always remember to dispose of it correctly. Find out where to deliver your recyclable waste and see the best ways to clean it.
Did you like this article? Stay up to date with more tricks and tips in the Women’s Area, and don’t miss: How to clean silver? 7 homemade tips that work.
Sources: Bol Ecycle Tudo Gostoso
Featured image source: Suimport
