Oxo Non-Stick Pans: Are They Safe To Use?

OXO non-stick pans are PFAS-free, which means they are free of the perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances that are slated to be labelled as hazardous substances by the US Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA announcement will likely motivate industries to move away from these forever chemicals. OXO's new ceramic pans have none of these chemicals, but they are known to be less durable than traditional non-stick pans.

Are OXO non-stick pans PFAS-free?

OXO's non-stick pans are PFAS-free. The company's new ceramic pans contain no PFAS, unlike their outgoing non-stick pans.

PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are slated to be labelled as hazardous substances by the US Environmental Protection Agency. PFAS are commonly found in traditional non-stick pans.

OXO's PFAS-free non-stick pans are made from hard-anodized aluminium with a diamond-reinforced ceramic non-stick coating. They are also free of PFOA, lead, and cadmium.

The OXO Good Grips Pro 10" Frying Pan Skillet is a PFAS-free non-stick pan. It has a three-layer, German-engineered non-stick coating and is dishwasher-safe and oven-safe up to 430°F.

The OXO Professional 12" Frying Pan Skillet is another PFAS-free option. It has a diamond-reinforced ceramic non-stick coating and is dishwasher-safe and oven-safe up to 600°F.

What are the alternatives to OXO non-stick pans?

OXO's non-stick pans are made with PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has declared to be hazardous substances. If you're looking for alternatives to OXO non-stick pans, here are some options:

Ceramic Pans

OXO has introduced a new line of ceramic pans that are PFAS-free. Ceramic pans are known to be less durable than traditional non-stick pans, but OXO's ceramic pans have received positive reviews for their performance and ease of use. They are also induction compatible. However, it is important to note that ceramic pans require careful handling and cannot be exposed to high heat, metal utensils, or the dishwasher.

Carbon Steel Pans

Carbon steel pans are another alternative to non-stick pans. They are durable, inexpensive, and excellent for searing. OXO offers pre-seasoned carbon steel pans, which is uncommon among manufacturers. While carbon steel pans require seasoning and cannot be put in the dishwasher, they are a more sustainable option that can last for decades.

Cast Iron Pans

Cast iron pans are a classic alternative to non-stick pans. They are durable, inexpensive, and suitable for searing and roasting. However, they are heavier than carbon steel pans.

Tramontina Professional 10-Inch Restaurant Fry Pan

This non-stick pan is praised for its even heat distribution, slick non-stick coating, and comfortable handle. It is available in four sizes (8, 10, 12, and 14 inches) and is oven-safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The Tramontina Professional pan offers excellent value for money and is a recommended alternative to OXO's non-stick pans.

How do OXO non-stick pans compare to other non-stick pans?

OXO's non-stick pans are made of ceramic, which is free of PFAS, PFOA, lead and cadmium. Ceramic is a welcome alternative to Teflon, which contains toxic chemicals that can be released when overheated or scratched. Ceramic pans are safe from scratching and overheating, but they can be chipped and cracked, and they have a shorter lifespan than Teflon pans.

OXO's ceramic pans have received positive reviews for their non-stick performance, ease of cleaning, and heat distribution. However, some customers have noted that the non-stick coating can start to wear off over time, and that the pans may not be as durable as traditional non-stick pans.

Compared to other non-stick pans on the market, OXO's ceramic pans offer a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative. While they may not last as long as Teflon pans, they still perform well and are less likely to release toxic chemicals into your food or the environment.

In addition to their ceramic non-stick pans, OXO also offers carbon steel pans, which are another safe and durable option. Carbon steel pans can be seasoned and will develop a natural non-stick coating over time.

Overall, OXO's non-stick pans are a good choice for those seeking an alternative to traditional Teflon pans. While no non-stick pan is perfect, OXO's options are safe, effective, and relatively long-lasting.

How do you care for OXO non-stick pans?

OXO non-stick pans are PFAS-free and made of hard anodized aluminium. They are dishwasher-safe, but hand washing is recommended for non-stick pans. Here are some tips for caring for your OXO non-stick pans:

Before First Use

Before using your OXO non-stick pan for the first time, wash it with warm, soapy water and dry it with a soft towel.

Cooking

• Always add a little oil or butter to the pan before cooking.
• Avoid using non-stick cooking spray, as it creates a film that is hard to remove.
• Use wooden, nylon, or silicone utensils. Metal utensils will scratch and ruin the non-stick surface.
• Do not cut or carve food in the pan, as this can also scratch the surface.
• Do not use high heat. Low to medium heat is best for non-stick pans.
• Do not use the pan for acidic foods, such as tomato sauce. Use a stainless steel pan instead.

Cleaning

• Always wait for the pan to cool down before cleaning. Submerging a hot pan in cold water can cause the metal to warp.
• Wash by hand with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. Avoid scouring pads, steel wool, and harsh cleaning materials, as these can scratch the non-stick coating.
• Dry the pan completely with a soft towel before putting it away.

Storage

• If stacking your pans, place a piece of paper towel or a cloth napkin between each pan to protect the non-stick surface.
• Do not store food inside the pan in the fridge. Use a storage container instead.

What are the reviews for OXO non-stick pans?

OXO's non-stick pans have received generally positive reviews from customers. On Amazon, the OXO Good Grips Pro 10" Frying Pan Skillet has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 15,000 ratings. Customers praise the pan's performance, quality, non-stick properties, ease of cleaning, heat distribution, weight, and value. The pan has also received recognition from America's Test Kitchen, earning their "Best in Show" award.

However, there are some mixed reviews regarding the lid of the pan, with some customers finding it too small or not fitting properly. Additionally, some reviewers on Amazon mention that the non-stick coating started to wear off after a few months of use, while others report that the pan performs well and the coating holds up over time.

Overall, the OXO non-stick pans seem to be well-regarded by customers, with many praising its non-stick properties, ease of cleaning, and heat distribution.

Frequently asked questions