Did you ever notice that aluminum foil is shinier on one side than it is on the other? When cooking with foil (for example, wrapping potatoes for baking), be sure to wrap or cover the item dull side out -- shiny side out will reflect the heat rather than absorb it, and it will take longer to cook.
According to http://www.reynoldskitchens.com it doesn't make a difference what side is used. The reason it is like that is due to the manufacturing process.
By renee (Guest Post)
04/14/2005
Thank you for posting this tip. For years I have wondered if there was a difference with the sides of aluminum foil, and now I finally know!