Dull or shiny: Which side of the aluminum foil should you use to pack food?

“The variation in appearance is due to the manufacturing process; it does not affect the safety or health aspects of the food that comes into contact with either side of the foil,” she says. 

Additionally, she mentions that using either side of an aluminum foil does not have any significant impact on the food. “Using either the dull or shiny side of aluminum foil for wrapping or cooking foods does not inherently affect the nutritional value or composition of the foods,” she says. The cooking method (e.g., baking vs. grilling) and the ingredients themselves have a far greater impact on the nutritional outcome than the side of the foil used.

“Using either the dull or shiny side of aluminum foil for wrapping or cooking foods does not inherently affect the nutritional value or composition of the foods,” says Ipsita Chakraborty, senior nutritionist at Hungry Koala

Are there any potential health concerns associated with using one side of aluminum foil over the other?

The primary health concerns related to aluminum foil use in cooking or storage involve the potential migration of aluminum into food, according to Chakraborty. However, this migration is minimal and generally considered safe by health authorities. 

“The choice between using the dull or shiny side does not impact this factor significantly,” she says. The slight potential for aluminum migration is more related to cooking highly acidic or salty foods, which could cause more aluminum to leach into the food.

Recommendations for using aluminum foil in food preparation

Chakraborty lists specific recommendations or best practices for using aluminum foil in food preparation to ensure both safety and nutritional integrity:

• Side preference: Given the lack of significant difference, users can choose either side based on personal preference or convenience. The shiny side is often considered for its aesthetic appeal when covering or wrapping foods for presentation.
• Acidic and salty foods: When cooking with acidic (like tomatoes or citrus) or salty foods, it may be prudent to use an additional barrier (like parchment paper) between the food and the foil to minimise aluminum migration.
• High-temperature cooking: For high-temperature cooking, ensuring the foil is not in direct contact with the food can help reduce the risk of any potential aluminum migration.
• Storage: For food storage, aluminum foil can be used on either side without affecting food safety. However, for longer storage periods, ensuring foods are properly sealed and using containers designed for long-term storage can provide additional safety and preserve nutritional quality.