Tiffany Haney
Hexclad pans have been a popular choice for home cooks and professional chefs, with some sources praising their durability and non-stick capabilities. However, concerns have been raised about the potential toxicity of these pans due to the presence of PTFE or Teflon in their coating. While Hexclad has recently switched to a ceramic coating, which is marketed as non-toxic, there are still questions surrounding the safety of their products, especially those manufactured before 2024.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Toxicity | Hexclad pans manufactured before 2024 contained PTFE, which is toxic. However, newer models have switched to a ceramic coating, which is non-toxic. |
| Coating Material | PTFE (older models) or ceramic (newer models) |
| Heat Resistance | Should not be heated above medium-high heat (500 °F) to avoid damaging the ceramic coating |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty offered, but concerns about its validity have been raised |
| Price | Expensive |
| Durability | Some users report issues with durability, especially with the ceramic coating |
| Performance | Good performance, but some sticking may occur unless the pan is oiled or heated before use |
| Ease of Use | Requires proper seasoning and care for optimal performance |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Hexclad's switch from PTFE to ceramic coating
HexClad's hybrid cookware combines stainless steel with a ceramic non-stick coating. The stainless steel latticework sits on top of the ceramic coating, creating a textured surface. This design protects the non-stick coating and helps to hold oil or juices in the honeycomb structure. However, it also means that the cooking surface is not entirely smooth, which can affect the searing and fond when cooking foods like eggs and fish.
The switch from PTFE to ceramic coating addresses concerns about toxicity. At high temperatures, PTFE breaks down and releases toxic fumes that can cause polymer fume fever and harm pets and the environment. HexClad's new coating, TerraBond™, is PTFE-free and free from "forever chemicals". This change brings HexClad's cookware into alignment with consumers' preferences for non-toxic, chemical-free cooking surfaces.
While the switch to ceramic coating addresses toxicity concerns, it introduces some new considerations. Ceramic coatings can get scratched and worn away over time, especially when used with metal utensils. Additionally, the longevity of the non-stick properties of the new coating is yet to be determined. Users also need to be careful not to overheat the pans, as temperatures above 500°F can break down the ceramic coating.
Despite these considerations, the switch to a ceramic coating is a positive step for HexClad. The new coating provides a non-toxic, non-stick surface that is safer for consumers and the environment. With proper care and use, the HexClad pans with the new TerraBond™ coating can provide a durable and effective cooking experience.
Pots and Pans: Choosing the Best
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The presence of toxic forever chemicals in PTFE
HexClad pans are now PTFE-free and forever chemical-free. The company switched to a non-PTFE coating in 2024, opting for a high-grade proprietary ceramic non-stick coating called 'TerraBond'. This change was made in response to concerns about the toxicity of PTFE, or polytetrafluoroethylene, a chemical substance that exhibits excellent heat resistance, electrical insulation, and water repellence. PTFE is a member of the PFAS family, which consists of over 9,000 toxic compounds that do not break down in the environment and are known as "forever chemicals".
PFAS chemicals are widely used in consumer products and industrial processes, including food packaging, cosmetics, cookware, waterproof clothing, carpets, mattresses, electronics, and firefighting foams. They are valued for their non-stick and stain-repellent properties. However, their presence in household dust, drinking water, and food means that human exposure to these toxic chemicals is a significant concern.
The production of PTFE is also cause for concern. While little is known about where it is produced, PFOA, another PFAS chemical, was detected in leaves and grass within three kilometres of a Dutch manufacturing plant. This led to advisories against consuming vegetables grown within a one-kilometre radius of the plant.
The waste phase of PTFE is another issue. As a polymer, PTFE has a different chemical structure than other PFAS chemicals, which affects its behaviour in the environment. While PTFE in its finished form is made up of thousands of carbon atoms chained together, many well-known PFAS chemicals consist of far fewer carbon atoms. This distinction has important implications for the persistence and accumulation of these chemicals in the environment and living organisms.
In summary, the presence of toxic forever chemicals in PTFE is a significant concern due to their environmental persistence, human exposure, and potential health risks. HexClad's decision to switch to a PTFE-free and forever chemical-free coating is a positive step towards addressing these concerns and providing consumers with safer alternatives.
Clearing Drain Pans: Frigidaire Air Conditioner Maintenance
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The safety and ease of use of Hexclad pans
Hexclad pans have been a popular choice for many, including renowned chef Gordon Ramsay. However, concerns have been raised about the safety of these pans, specifically regarding the use of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), commonly known as Teflon, in their non-stick coating.
The debate centres around the potential toxicity of PTFE, which, when overheated, can break down and release toxic organic fluorine gases that can cause polymer fume fever and other adverse health effects. In response to these concerns, Hexclad made a quiet transition in 2024, replacing the PTFE coating with a proprietary ceramic non-stick material called TerraBond™. This new coating is PTFE-free and free from "forever chemicals," addressing the toxicity concerns associated with the previous PTFE coating.
The ceramic-coated Hexclad pans are technically non-toxic and marketed as such by the company. However, it is important to note that these new pans come with their own set of considerations. For example, these pans should never be heated above medium-high heat (500 degrees F) as it can cause the ceramic coating to break. Additionally, the ceramic coating may be more prone to scratching and losing its non-stick qualities over time.
In terms of ease of use, Hexclad pans, especially the newer ceramic-coated versions, are generally well-received. The pans are durable, with some users reporting damage-free usage for several years. However, the price point is often cited as a significant drawback, with the cost of a single Hexclad pan sometimes equalling the price of separate non-stick and stainless steel skillets. Additionally, some users have expressed concerns about the lack of clear guidance from Hexclad on properly using and caring for the updated ceramic-coated pans.
Overall, while the switch to a ceramic coating addresses the toxicity concerns associated with PTFE, it introduces new considerations for users regarding heat limitations and the potential for faster deterioration of the non-stick surface.
Resurrecting Scorched Pans: Tips for Restoration
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The high price of Hexclad pans
Hexclad pans are expensive. For the price of a single Hexclad pan, you could buy separate non-stick and stainless steel skillets. So, are they worth the cost?
Hexclad markets its pans as non-toxic, with celebrity endorsements from the likes of Gordon Ramsey. However, this is a recent development. In 2024, Hexclad quietly switched from using PTFE to ceramic. PTFE, or polytetrafluoroethylene, is more commonly known by its trade name, Teflon. At high temperatures, PTFE begins to break down and release toxic fumes, which can cause polymer fume fever, a condition with flu-like symptoms. These fumes can also kill birds.
The new ceramic-coated pans are PTFE-free and free from forever chemicals. However, there are concerns about the durability of the ceramic coating, which can get scratched and lose its non-stick qualities. Hexclad also provides poor guidance on the care and use of its products, which may further impact their longevity.
While the new Hexclad pans may be non-toxic, it is too early to tell whether they will prove a worthwhile investment.
Erase Burn Marks from Your Organic Pan
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The durability of Hexclad pans
Hexclad pans have been described as durable. An editor at Serious Eats has used the 12-inch Hexclad Hybrid Pan since 2016 without any damage. However, the durability of the newer ceramic-coated pans depends on proper use. Hexclad has been criticised for not providing clear guidance on how to use and care for the newer pans.
The older PTFE-coated Hexclad pans were marketed as non-toxic, but this was misleading. When PTFE breaks down at high temperatures, it releases toxic fumes. The newer ceramic-coated pans are genuinely non-toxic, but they should not be heated above 500 °F, as this will break the ceramic.
The ceramic coating on the newer pans has been described as "tacky" and prone to scratching, which could affect the longevity of the pan. The ceramic coating may also crack if the pan is used in the oven, as the lattice could expand at a different rate to the coating.
The older PTFE-coated pans were also less durable than cast iron, stainless steel, and carbon steel pans. The newer ceramic-coated pans are arguably more durable than Caraway's pans, which are not 3-ply, but they are still less durable than cast iron, stainless steel, and carbon steel pans.
Mala Hot Pot: A Healthy Indulgence or a Dietary Disaster?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Hexclad pans were previously made with PTFE, which is toxic. However, in 2024, the company switched to using a ceramic coating, which is non-toxic.
PTFE, or polytetrafluoroethylene, is a chemical that can break down and release toxic fumes when heated to high temperatures. These fumes can be harmful to humans and animals.
The new Hexclad pans with the ceramic coating are considered safe to use, as they are non-toxic. However, it is important to note that the ceramic coating can break if the pan is heated above 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Some alternative non-toxic pan options include Lancaster Cast Iron and Alva. Caraway Home cookware is also a good option, as it is made with recycled materials and can be recycled at the end of its life.
