Calphalon Pans: Safe Or Not?

Calphalon is a popular brand of cookware, best known for its PTFE non-stick products. The safety of PTFE non-stick coatings has been questioned in the past, and while Calphalon's non-stick pans are not made with Teflon, they use a very similar material. However, since 2013, PTFE coatings have been PFOA-free, and the American Cancer Society has stated that there are no proven risks to humans from cooking with non-stick pans. Nevertheless, it is important not to overheat PTFE pans, as this can cause the release of harmful fumes. Calphalon's stainless steel cookware is also considered safe, although those with nickel allergies may want to opt for nickel-free alternatives.

Calphalon's non-stick coating is made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)

PTFE is well-known for its application in non-stick cookware, including frying pans, due to its non-reactivity and heat resistance. It is also chemically inert, which means it can be used to store reactive and corrosive chemicals. PTFE is further used as a lubricant, reducing friction, wear, and energy consumption in machinery.

PTFE was discovered in 1938 by Roy J. Plunkett, an employee at DuPont. DuPont produced Teflon-brand PTFE, which became the commonly known brand name of PTFE-based compositions. However, Calphalon does not use Teflon-branded PTFE coatings. Instead, they use a similar PTFE coating produced by GMM Non-Stick Coatings, a global supplier of premium non-stick coatings.

PTFE releases fumes when it reaches temperatures of 536°F (280°C) or higher. These fumes can cause polymer fume fever, or "Teflon flu," in humans, and can be lethal to birds. Therefore, it is important to follow safe cooking practices when using PTFE-coated cookware, such as not exceeding maximum temperature recommendations and avoiding the use of metal utensils that could scratch the surface.

PTFE is safe for humans, according to the American Cancer Society

Calphalon non-stick cookware is 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 has received negative attention in the past due to its association with PFOA, a chemical linked to illnesses and health concerns. However, since 2013, PFOA has been removed from the non-stick manufacturing process, and Calphalon's PTFE is now completely PFOA-free.

According to the American Cancer Society, there are no proven risks to humans from cooking with non-stick pans, such as those made by Calphalon. The American Cancer Society states:

> "Other than the possible risk of flu-like symptoms from breathing in fumes from an overheated [PTFE]-coated pan, there are no proven risks to humans from using cookware coated with [PTFE] (or other non-stick surfaces). While PFOA was used in the past in the US in making [PTFE], it is not present (or is present in extremely small amounts) in [PTFE]-coated products."

However, it is important to note that PTFE starts to release fumes once it reaches 536°F (279°C). These fumes are harmful to humans and can cause polymer fume fever, also known as "Teflon flu." Prolonged exposure to these fumes can lead to even more severe reactions, such as lung damage. Therefore, it is crucial to follow safe cooking practices when using Calphalon non-stick cookware, including avoiding overheating and using metal utensils that could scratch the surface.

PTFE was previously made with PFOA, a chemical linked to illnesses

PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) was previously made with PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), a chemical linked to illnesses and health concerns. PFOA is a man-made chemical that has been used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s. It is one of the most common types of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) found in the environment. PFAS are labelled "forever chemicals" because they don't break down easily and can stay in the environment and the human body for a long time.

PFOA has been linked to a variety of health issues. Studies have found that exposure to PFOA increases the risk of certain tumours in the liver, testicles, mammary glands, and pancreas in lab animals. Some studies have also suggested a possible link between PFOA exposure and an increased risk of testicular cancer, kidney cancer, and thyroid cancer in humans. Other potential health effects of PFOA exposure include increases in cholesterol levels, lower antibody responses to vaccines, changes in liver enzymes, pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, and small decreases in birth weight.

Due to concerns over the health effects of PFOA, manufacturers began making PFOA-free non-stick cookware in recent years. Calphalon, a popular brand of cookware, introduced a ceramic-based cookware line in 2013 that contains no PTFE or PFOA. 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 such as those made by Calphalon.

Calphalon's PTFE is PFOA-free

PTFE was previously manufactured using a chemical known as PFOA, which was linked to various illnesses and health concerns. However, since 2015, PFOA has been banned from use in cookware sold in the US. While Calphalon's PTFE is PFOA-free, it is important to note that other similar chemicals, such as GenX, are still used in the PTFE manufacturing process. These chemicals have been associated with similar health issues as PFOA.

The American Cancer Society has stated that there are no proven risks to humans from cooking with non-stick pans, such as those made by Calphalon, as long as they are used correctly. It is important to follow Calphalon's recommended temperature ranges and avoid using metal utensils that could scratch the PTFE coating. If the coating becomes scratched or starts to flake, it is recommended to replace the pan.

Overheating PTFE can cause polymer fume fever, or Teflon flu

Calphalon non-stick cookware is made of two materials: a hard-anodized aluminum base and a non-stick coating made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). PTFE is a synthetic resin with a slick surface and a high heat tolerance. While Calphalon does not use the trademarked Teflon to coat its pans, the PTFE they use is very similar.

PTFE used to be made with a chemical known as PFOA, which was linked to known illnesses and health concerns. Since 2013, however, the chemical has been removed from the non-stick manufacturing process to protect people and the environment. 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.

However, it is important to note that PTFE should not be overheated. PTFE starts to release fumes once it reaches 536°F (260°C-350°C). These fumes are harmful to humans and dangerous to birds. Overheating PTFE can cause polymer fume fever, also known as "Teflon flu". This is a flu-like illness that is caused by inhaling the thermal degradation byproducts of fluorocarbons. Symptoms include fever, chills, headaches, chest tightness, a dry or mild cough, and malaise. They usually present within four to ten hours after exposure and generally resolve within 48 hours. Prolonged exposure can cause even more severe reactions, such as lung damage, but this would require breathing the fumes from a burning pan for several hours.

To avoid overheating PTFE, it is important to follow safe cooking practices. Do not exceed the maximum temperature or scratch the cookware's surface with metal utensils or harsh cleaning instruments. Do not exceed Calphalon's recommended temperatures, ranging from 400 to 500°F. Do not use Calphalon non-stick cookware in the broiler, and do not use high heat on the stove; instead, choose low to medium heat. Additionally, always cook in a well-ventilated area, and if you have birds in your house, be very careful when using PTFE-coated cookware to ensure it does not overheat.

Frequently asked questions