Definition of waxed paper

The term "waxed paper" can be traced back to the mid-19th century, when a new type of paper coated with wax was developed. This product allowed for food items such as meats, vegetables, and fruits to be packed and preserved for longer periods of time. The word "waxed" in this context refers to the process of applying a thin layer of paraffin or beeswax to the surface of the paper. This wax coating creates a barrier that prevents moisture from seeping into the paper and keeps the contents inside fresh. At the time of its invention, waxed paper was a game-changer in the food industry as it provided an effective solution to prevent spoilage during transportation and storage. It also replaced the traditional method of using leaves, paper bags, and plain papers to wrap and preserve food items. The ability to preserve food was especially important during the Industrial Revolution, as food transportation and distribution became increasingly common. Waxed paper became widely used in the commercial food industry and helped to revolutionize the way people stored and preserved food. Though modern food preservation techniques have evolved since the invention of waxed paper, it still has various practical uses today, such as in food packaging, sandwich wrappings, and parcel wrapping. In short, waxed paper’s origins can be traced back to an innovative solution for food preservation during a time of rapid industrialization.