Comparing Tin Foil vs Aluminum Foil - What are the Differences

Are you trying to decide between tin foil and aluminum foil for your next cooking or baking project? Both are great for storing and wrapping food, but there are some key differences that set them apart. Read on to learn which material is best for the job.

Composition: What Materials are Used in Tin Foil and Aluminum Foil?

Tin foil and aluminum foil are both made of metals, but the primary difference between the two is that tin foil is composed of tin while aluminum foil is composed of aluminum. To prevent corrosion, both have a protective coating, such as a lacquer or wax. Tin foil is also much thicker than aluminum foil so it provides more insulation against heat and cold.

Cooking Advantages: What Can Each Type of Foil Do Better During Cooking?

When it comes to cooking, aluminum foil is the clear favourite. Aluminum foil is much more heat-resistant than tin foil, making it a better choice for baking and other hot applications. Aluminum foil also has higher reflectivity than tin foil, making it ideal for roasting and preventing food from getting overheated. Tin foil may have its uses in cold applications like wrapping sandwiches and leftovers but aluminum foil remains the dominant material when it comes to culinary uses.