Deli Paper vs Parchment Paper: Which Is Right for Your Business?
Deli paper and parchment paper are often confused. Here is a clear breakdown of what makes them different and when to use each one.
Two Different Papers for Two Different Jobs
Deli paper and parchment paper are both common in commercial kitchens and food service, but they serve very different functions. Using the wrong one can affect both food quality and operational efficiency.
This guide explains the differences clearly and helps you choose the right paper for each application in your kitchen or service operation.
What Is Deli Paper?
Deli paper is a light, flexible paper used for wrapping, lining, and serving food at deli counters, sandwich shops, and quick service restaurants. It is typically coated with a light grease-resistant finish and is soft enough to fold and wrap easily around sandwiches, cold cuts, and cheeses.
Key characteristics:
- Light and flexible — easy to wrap by hand
- Light to moderate grease resistance
- Not oven-safe
- Suitable for cold and room-temperature food
- Available in white and kraft
- Printable with full-color custom branding
Our custom deli paper) is used by thousands of delis, sandwich shops, and food service operations across the USA.
What Is Parchment Paper?
Parchment paper is a heavier, silicone-coated paper designed primarily for baking and high-heat food preparation. The silicone coating gives it a non-stick surface and makes it oven-safe up to 450°F.
Key characteristics:
- Silicone-coated for non-stick performance
- Oven-safe up to 450°F
- Heavy and stiff — not ideal for hand wrapping
- Grease-resistant due to silicone coating
- Available in bleached white and unbleached natural
- Used in bakeries, commercial kitchens, and food presentation
Our parchment paper) is available in custom-printed versions for bakeries that want branding on their baking sheets and service paper.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Deli Paper | Parchment Paper |
| Primary use | Wrapping and serving | Baking and cooking |
| Heat resistance | Low | High (up to 450°F) |
| Non-stick surface | No | Yes (silicone coated) |
| Flexibility | High | Medium |
| Best for | Sandwiches, delis | Baking, oven use |
| Weight | Light (28–40 gsm) | Heavier (40–60 gsm) |
When to Use Deli Paper
Use deli paper when:
- Wrapping sandwiches, subs, or hoagies
- Lining serving trays and baskets
- Covering deli counter surfaces
- Wrapping cold cuts and cheese portions
- Serving from a food truck counter
When to Use Parchment Paper
Use parchment paper when:
- Lining baking sheets for cookies, pastries, or bread
- Cooking fish, chicken, or vegetables en papillote
- Lining pizza stones or oven trays
- Presenting charcuterie boards and food displays
Can Both Be Custom Printed?
Yes. Both deli paper and parchment paper can be printed with custom logos and full-color designs. Custom printing turns both types of paper into branded marketing tools.
For bakeries, printed parchment paper carries your brand into the oven and onto the table. For delis, printed deli paper wraps every sandwich with your identity.
What About Greaseproof Paper?
Custom greaseproof paper) sits between the two in terms of grease resistance. It is heavier than standard deli paper and handles higher grease levels, but it is not silicone-coated like parchment. It is a popular choice for burger restaurants and fried food service.
FAQs
Q: Can I use parchment paper instead of deli paper for wrapping sandwiches?
A: You can, but parchment is stiffer and less ideal for hand wrapping. Deli paper is purpose-built for this use.
Q: Can deli paper go in the oven?
A: No. Standard deli paper is not oven-safe. Use parchment paper for any oven applications.
Q: Is greaseproof paper better than deli paper for fatty sandwiches?
A: Yes. If your sandwiches have a lot of oil or grease, greaseproof paper provides a stronger barrier than standard deli paper.
Q: What is the most popular paper type for sandwich shops in the USA?
A: Custom deli paper is the most widely used paper type in US sandwich shops and delis.
