Calphalon Non-Stick Pans: Are They Pfoa-Free?

Calphalon is a leading manufacturer of cookware, cutlery, and bakeware, and its non-stick pans are a popular choice for home cooks. However, concerns have been raised over the years about the safety of non-stick coatings, specifically the presence of PFOA, a chemical linked to known illnesses and health issues. So, are Calphalon non-stick pans PFOA-free?

Calphalon's non-stick pans are made with a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating, which was previously made with PFOA. However, since 2013, PFOA has been removed from the manufacturing process, and Calphalon now uses a PFOA-free PTFE coating. This means that as long as your Calphalon non-stick pan was manufactured after 2013, it is PFOA-free and safe to use as long as you follow the recommended usage instructions.

Calphalon non-stick pans are PFOA-free

Calphalon's non-stick coating is made by GMM Non-Stick Coatings, a global supplier of premium non-stick coatings. The PTFE that Calphalon uses today is completely PFOA-free and, according to the American Cancer Society, there are no proven risks to humans from cooking with non-stick pans.

Calphalon's Classic Ceramic Nonstick Cookware line features eco-friendly, PFOA-free ceramic non-stick for extra-easy food release and cleanup. This line includes fry pans, saucepans, and saute pans, all of which are oven-safe and come with a full 10-year warranty.

In addition to being PFOA-free, Calphalon's non-stick pans also offer other benefits such as fill lines for easy measuring, specially-designed lids with straining holes, and stay-cool stainless steel handles. However, it is important to note that while Calphalon's non-stick pans are safe for everyday use, they should not be overheated as this can release harmful fumes.

PTFE is safe unless the pan is overheated

Calphalon non-stick pans are made of two materials: a hard-anodized aluminium base and a non-stick coating made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). PTFE is a synthetic resin with a slick surface and a high heat tolerance.

PTFE was previously made with a chemical known as PFOA, which was linked to illnesses and health issues. However, since 2013, PFOA has been removed from the non-stick manufacturing process, and the PTFE that Calphalon uses today is PFOA-free. The American Cancer Society has stated that there are no proven risks to humans from cooking with non-stick pans, unless the pans are overheated.

PTFE starts to release fumes at 536°F (300°C). These fumes are harmful to humans and can cause polymer fume fever, or "Teflon flu", which presents as flu-like symptoms that usually appear within 4-10 hours after exposure and last for up to 48 hours. Prolonged exposure to the fumes can cause more severe reactions, such as lung damage, but this would require breathing in the fumes for several hours.

Therefore, it is important to follow safe cooking practices when using Calphalon non-stick cookware. This includes not exceeding the recommended temperatures of 400-500°F, not using high heat on the stove, and cooking in a well-ventilated area. As long as these precautions are taken, PTFE is safe to use.

PTFE was previously made with PFOA

PTFE, or polytetrafluoroethylene, is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene. It is commonly known by the brand name Teflon. PTFE was discovered in 1938 by Roy J. Plunkett while working for DuPont. It has applications in non-stick pans, containers and pipework for reactive and corrosive chemicals, surgical graft material, and catheters.

PFOA was used during the production of PTFE for decades due to its usefulness as a surfactant in the emulsion polymerization process. It helped to suspend PTFE in an aqueous medium, which is necessary for creating non-stick coatings. However, PFOA is a persistent organic pollutant and has been linked to various health issues, including flu-like symptoms, lung damage, and more severe reactions with prolonged exposure.

Today, PTFE is completely PFOA-free, and there are no proven risks to humans from cooking with non-stick pans, as long as they are used as recommended. The American Cancer Society has confirmed this, stating that there are no risks to humans from using PTFE-coated cookware, except for the possible risk of flu-like symptoms from breathing in fumes if the pan is overheated.

Calphalon non-stick pans are made from hard-anodized aluminum

Calphalon's non-stick pans feature a multi-layer nonstick coating, with some models having two layers for durability and others featuring three layers for improved performance and easy food release. The nonstick coating allows for healthier cooking, as less oil or butter is required, and also makes cleaning easier.

Calphalon's non-stick pans are also designed with functionality and safety in mind. The pans have long, brushed stainless steel handles that stay cool while cooking, and they are oven-safe up to temperatures of 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The pans are dishwasher-safe and suitable for gas, electric, electric ring, halogen, or glass ceramic stovetops.

Overall, the hard-anodized aluminum construction of Calphalon non-stick pans provides a durable, safe, and functional cooking experience, making them a popular choice for home chefs.

Calphalon Classic Ceramic Nonstick Cookware is eco-friendly

Calphalon Classic Ceramic Nonstick Cookware is a durable and eco-friendly option for those seeking easy, everyday cooking. The 11-piece set includes a range of fry pans, saucepans, a saute pan, and more, allowing you to cook a variety of meals with ease.

The cookware is constructed from hard-anodized aluminum, ensuring fast and even heating. The PFOA-free ceramic nonstick cooking surface not only makes food release and cleanup a breeze but also contributes to its eco-friendly nature. Additionally, the set features convenient measuring marks, pour spouts, and straining lids on select pans. The cast stainless steel handles stay cool on the stovetop, and the cookware is oven-safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Calphalon Classic Ceramic Nonstick Cookware is a reliable and environmentally conscious choice for your kitchen, backed by a 10-year warranty.

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