Grease paper

When selecting grease paper, the most critical factor is the Kit Level (Grease Resistance Rating), which typically ranges from 1 to 12; for high-fat foods like fried chicken or pastries, a Kit 5 to Kit 7 rating is usually required. Additionally, you must verify the Basis Weight (GSM), generally between 30gsm and 70gsm, to ensure the paper has sufficient tensile strength to prevent tearing when wrapping moist or heavy items. For heated applications, ensure the paper is heat-resistant up to 220°C (428°F) if it is intended for oven use.

For the US market, products must be FDA 21 CFR 176.170 compliant for contact with aqueous and fatty foods. For the EU, adherence to Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 and BfR Recommendation XXXVI is mandatory. Furthermore, due to increasing environmental regulations, it is vital to ensure the paper is PFAS-free (fluorine-free), as many regions are banning 'forever chemicals' in food packaging. Look for FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification to guarantee sustainable wood pulp sourcing.

Traditional greaseproof paper is made through a mechanical process called super-calendering, which makes it naturally resistant to oil and 100% biodegradable. However, some variants use a PE (Polyethylene) coating for moisture barriers, which makes the paper non-compostable and harder to recycle. For eco-conscious brands, silicone-coated parchment paper is a superior alternative for non-stick properties, while wax-coated paper is excellent for cold storage but cannot be used in heat.

The biggest risk is chemical migration compliance; if the paper contains unauthorized recycled pulp or harmful bleaching agents (like chlorine), it may be seized by customs. Another risk is moisture damage during sea transit, which can cause the paper rolls to swell or develop mold. To mitigate this, insist on vacuum-sealed plastic inner packaging and heavy-duty corrugated outer cartons with palletization.

Start by requesting a Technical Data Sheet (TDS) and a Third-Party Lab Report (SGS or Intertek) before discussing price. For bulk orders exceeding 5 tons, you can typically negotiate a 5-10% volume discount. To ensure consistency, implement a Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) clause in your contract, specifying that the grease resistance (Kit Test) must be verified against the golden sample before the final balance is paid.

Grease paper is a high-density, low-value commodity, making shipping costs a significant portion of the Total Cost of Ownership. FOB (Free On Board) is generally recommended so you can control the freight forwarder and optimize container loading. For large volumes, FCL (Full Container Load) is much more cost-effective than LCL, as it reduces the risk of edge-crushing and contamination from other goods in a shared container.