Can You Reuse Aluminum Foil? We Asked Scientists and Chefs, Here's What They Said

Aluminum foil is a staple of food preservation and a chef’s best friend. From lining baking sheets to storing leftovers to grilling veggies, aluminum foil has a plethora of practical applications. You could even say that it's the unsung hero of the kitchen. With all of its versatility, you'll want to keep from burning through a box too quickly. But can you reuse aluminum foil? Is it recommended—or even safe?

We turned to a food scientist, professional chefs, and a health expert to find out if you can reuse (and how to make the most out of) aluminum foil.

Is It Safe to Reuse Aluminum Foil?

The great news for anyone looking to reduce waste and get maximum worth out of their kitchen materials is that, under certain circumstances. reusing your aluminum foil is perfectly acceptable. “In most cases, aluminum foil can be reused safely,” says chef and recipe expert Dennis Littley. "But there are some important considerations depending on how it was used, what it was in contact with, and how well it’s cleaned before storing."

Without proper cleaning and care, aluminum foil reuse could promote microbial contamination and foodborne illness, according to infection preventionist Shanina Knighton. In fact, "unless the foil was used exclusively as a cover at room temperature and remains free of food residue," certified food scientist Jessica Gavin recommends discarding aluminum foil after its first use. "This minimizes the risk of contamination," she says.

When to Reuse Aluminum Foil

When aluminum foil has been used only once, it is generally safe to reuse—especially if it has only been used in limited capacities. If it was used to cover dry, non-greasy foods like bread, roasted vegetables, or baked goods, it’s fine to reuse as long as the foil is still in good shape, says Littley.

Remember: Be sure the foil has only been gently used and is free from food residues, moisture, grease, or damage. Smooth out your used aluminum foil thoroughly throughout the cleaning and drying process, as “residue from cleaning solutions or detergents may get trapped, especially if the foil is crinkled or has deep creases,” says Knighton. “These residues can later transfer onto food, posing a chemical exposure risk.”

Foods Best Stored in Aluminum Foil

Aluminum foil is great for wrapping and storing dry or low-acid foods like cooked meats, roasted vegetables, cut avocado, and baked goods to retain moisture, slow oxidations, and prevent odors.

Clean aluminum foil can be reused in several creative ways. “Crumple it into a scrubber for grills, cast iron pans, or glass dishes, or use it to polish silverware,” suggests Gavin. If intact and grease-free, it can also be used to line baking sheets.

When Not to Reuse Aluminum Foil

It is recommended that aluminum foil not be reused in certain situations for health and food safety reasons. It should not be reused mainly if its cleanliness has been compromised. If the aluminum foil is “crumpled beyond recognition, covered in melted cheese, or looking like it’s been through a kitchen war-zone, just let it go,” urges Rocco Carulli, an executive chef.

Additionally, you should not reuse aluminum foil in the following instances:

• Do not reuse aluminum foil if it has developed tears, wrinkles, or small holes. These could trap food particles and compromise the foil's protective barrier, warns Gavin. This could increase the risk of contamination and potential foodborne illness. A fresh piece of foil is preferable for optimal food safety.
• If the aluminum foil has been in contact with raw meat or fish or other perishable foods, do not reuse it, says Carulli. “Bacteria love that kind of environment.” 
• If the foil was used for highly acidic foods like tomatoes, citrus, or vinegar-based dishes, it’s best to avoid reusing it. The acid can cause the foil to degrade, leading to small amounts of aluminum transferring into foods, cautions Littley. 
• If aluminum foil is damp and has been stored improperly or wrapped around food for extended periods, “it can trap moisture and create an environment conducive to mold growth,” warns Knighton. It should not be reused in this instance.

Aluminum foil is recyclable, but always check your local recycling laws before placing your used aluminum foil in the recycle bin as rules differ in different regions. Some places require it to be clean and balled up, for example.

Be sure to wash it to remove any residue before recycling, advises Gavin. Discard the aluminum foil in the trash if it is heavily soiled with grease or sauce, adds Littley, as contaminated foil can’t be recycled effectively.

Foods That Should Not be Stored in Aluminum Foil

As aluminum reacts with acid, avoid storing acidic foods like tomatoes, ceviches, citrus and vinegar-based sauces, and highly salty foods. “While the risk of leaching is low, prolonged contact can cause a metallic taste and foil pitting,” warns Gavin. She recommends storing acidic or salty foods in foil for minimal periods only and opting for airtight glass containers for better preservation and food safety.