Beeswax Food Wraps
June crates were picked up at the first market of the season on June 3, and one item included was beeswax food wraps from 4 & 30 Farms. If you are interested in supporting our local producers and obtaining locally produced foods and items conveniently through this program reach out to us today, or head on over here for more information.
Whether you are looking to make more sustainable or eco-conscious choices, or just hate the feeling of tossing money away and looking for more reusable options in your home beeswax food wraps are one way to reduce waste.
These versatile, reusable, and natural wraps offer a fantastic eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic wraps and bags. They are becoming becoming a popular choice for sustainable food storage, but you might not be familiar with how to use and care for them- until now! Join us as we go over some tips for their use and maintenance.
What are Beeswax Food Wraps?
Beeswax food wraps are sheets of fabric infused with a mixture of beeswax, jojoba oil, and tree resin. This combination creates a flexible, water-resistant, and self-adhesive wrap that can be molded around food items or containers. Unlike plastic wraps, beeswax wraps are breathable, allowing your food to stay fresh for longer periods.
Easy to Use
One of the many reasons why beeswax food wraps have gained popularity is their simplicity. Using them is as easy as wrapping your food or covering a bowl. The natural adhesive properties of the wraps ensure that they stick to themselves, forming a secure seal. Say goodbye to struggling with tangled plastic wrap or fumbling with elastic bands.
Versatile and Breathable
Beeswax wraps are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes. Whether you want to wrap sandwiches, cover bowls of leftovers, or keep fruits and vegetables fresh, beeswax wraps have got you covered (literally!). The breathability of the fabric prevents condensation, allowing your food to stay fresh for longer periods. Plus, their pliability makes them perfect for wrapping odd-shaped items.
Care and Maintenance
Taking care of your beeswax food wraps is easy. Simply wash them with cool water and mild soap, let them air dry, and they'll be ready to reuse. Avoid using hot water, as it can melt the wax. Do not clean in the dishwasher. With proper care, beeswax wraps can last up to a year or more.
Storage
Clean and dry wraps can be stored folded, flattened or rolled- however it works best for you. Keep them away from heat and sunlight, so a kitchen drawer, maybe where your plastic wrap or aluminum foil goes would be the best place for them. Storing them in an airtight container or resealable bag will help maintain their freshness, keep them debris and dust free while preventing any odors that might transfer to them (although this is unlikely).
Recharge the Wax Coating
Over time, the wax coating on your wraps may start to wear off. But don't worry, it's easy to refresh them! You can use the oven method by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place your beeswax wrap on top of a sheet of parchment paper on a baking sheet and let it warm in the oven for a few minutes until the wax melts and spreads evenly. Then, remove it from the oven, let it cool, and it will be ready to use again.
You can also use a clothes iron and parchment paper. Sandwich the beeswax wrap between two pieces of parchment paper, heat your iron on the lowest setting and press the wrap allowing the coating to melt and spread across the fabric. Adjust the heat setting up until you find a gentle low heat that will melt the coating after placing the iron on top for a few seconds.
This maintenance might be necessary after 6 months or so of regular use. If the coating seems gone you can find beeswax wrap kits that will allow you to grate the wax formula on top of the fabric to give it a fresh new coat using either of the refresh methods.
What to Wrap, and How?
My favorite use for beeswax food wraps is on top of pans of baked goods, if they last long enough to store on the counter. After they cool I just lay the wrap on top of the pan and mold the extra length around the edges of my pan.
If you have a bowl or a container whose lids has gone missing save some time and frustration by using your wrap instead of fishing through the dreaded lid drawer!
Wraps can be especially handy for irregularly shaped items such as vegetables and fruits. You can wrap sandwiches or snacks; form a bag by molding the wrap into a bag (fold it like a letter and press the edges together), or wrap like a present and secure with a bit of string.
Don’t use the wrap on raw meat, and there is mixed advisement on its use on cheese, so use your best judgement and when in doubt go your usual route with other food storage products.
Note: Always make sure to check for any allergies or sensitivities to bee products before using beeswax food wraps.
About the Author
Jade Like is the bee enthusiast of 4 & 30 Farms and Bee Supply bringing beekeeping to this corner of Kansas. Her website linked here is where you will find events, products and musings inspiring others to take up hobby beekeeping in the area.