Non-stick cookware is still a popular choice among many cooks due to the ease of cooking with as well as cleaning the pan afterwards. However, as health concerns continue to circulate about the safety of using Teflon-coated cookware, we decided to face the facts: Is non-stick cookware safe enough for our health? And what types of cookware are most recommended for quality of health along with efficiency and ease in cooking?
The Science on the Surface
Understanding Non-Stick Cookware
The chemical compound that makes up the non-stick surface of your cookware is a long, science-y word, polytetrafluoroetheylene, better known by the trademark name of Teflon. The danger of Teflon is not when it is in its solid form, but rather when the molecules begin to break down under temperatures exceeding 500 degrees Fahrenheit. When this breakdown of the chemical compound occurs, toxic particles and gases are released, some of which are known to be carcinogenic.
The resulting fumes at temperatures exceeding 660 degrees Fahrenheit can result in what is known as the polymer-fume fever which will not only produce a headache, chills and/or a fever, but can kill a pet bird in a matter of minutes. And many cooks may be surprised to realize how quickly a pan can heat up to these temperatures! This is why it is strongly recommended to purchase pans of a heavier weight and to also never pre-heat the pans empty or cook food with a temperature above medium heat. Some even suggest avoiding the self-cleaning function on your oven since the method works through the use of high temperatures and this can result in fumes from the breakdown of the non-stick parts of your oven!
A Cook is Really a Scientist
Accepting the Discipline of the Art
Now it is true that there is some precaution due when cooking with non-stick cookware and yet at the same time, many of our cooking aids require some knowledge and discipline in using them appropriately. Much of cooking is essentially the art of science and chemistry, so you don’t need to feel intimidated when new information comes your way. If you love your non-stick cookware, you can still use it safely as long as you accurately understand and adhere to the limitations of the cookware. However, if you are interested in some different cookware options, we’re happy to give you a few suggestions.
Stainless steel cookware is a highly recommended alternative and many chefs even prefer the cooking properties of stainless steel over non-stick cookware. Another long-standing traditional cookware material is cast iron which, if properly “seasoned,” will have a non-stick property. Additionally, cast iron can sustain high cooking temperatures and can even be used in the oven. Even though there is Teflon cookware available for baking, it is still recommended to use glassware instead.
Ultimately, we would encourage you to be well-informed about the type of cookware you prefer to use to so that you can enjoy the satisfaction of both delicious and healthy cooking for you and your family!
Sources
http://www.ewg.org/research/healthy-home-tips/tip-6-skip-non-stick-avoid-dangers-teflon
http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/nervous-about-nonstick?