Aluminum foil is something we use everyday so i’m pretty sure that most of us have noticed by now that it has a shiny and a dull side. But have you ever wondered what’s the reason behind this difference in shining? Well, wonder no more because we have the answer.
As it turns out, it all has to do with the manufacturing process.
Aluminum foil is made by melting 100% pure aluminum and then thinning it between two highly polished steel rollers. This is actually done by using two sheets at a time – one atop the other. The two outer sides that touch the rollers end up with a high shine while the two sides that are pressing against each other emerge with a dull (matte) finish. So, which one should you use to place next to the food? (the article continues after the ad)
The truth is that it doesn’t really matter. A common myth has it that the shiny side reflects the heat back inside so that’s the one that should be placed on the inside. But there’s actually no difference on the heat reflection so feel free to place the tin foil in whichever side you like.
Here’s a video on how it’s made from Discovery:
If you like what you read, then you will definitely love this one: This Is Why Ice Cubes Have Holes In The Middle
Photo: Marco Verch / Flickr
Photoshop: I’m A Useless Info Junkie
Sources: Aluminum Foil: One Shiny Side? | Making Aluminum Foil | Aluminum Foil | Ever Wonder Why?: Here Are the Answers!