Non-Stick Baking Pans: Is It Teflon Coated?

Teflon™ nonstick coatings have been used in cookware and bakeware for over 50 years. The coatings are safe for consumer use and can contribute to a heart-healthy, low-fat diet. While some non-stick coatings are made with Teflon, Baker's Secret non-stick pans use a proprietary silicone coating on steel. This is stated twice in the item description. The pans are also PFOA, BPA, and cadmium-free.

Baker's Secret non-stick coating is made from silicone

Bakers Secret non-stick coating is made from silicone. This is a type of plastic that is safe for use under normal usage. However, silicone pans are not recommended for baking as they are not stable, tend to be sticky, and cannot be used near a naked flame.

Bakers Secret's silicone coating is applied to the pans with the highest standard of production and quality control. The coating is non-toxic and safe for "consumption" in the event that it is accidentally consumed due to scratches or damage to the pan. Nevertheless, it is recommended to replace pans with deep scratches for better release results and to hand wash with non-abrasive sponges.

The use of silicone in Bakers Secret products ensures that they are BPA, PTFE, PFOA, and cadmium-free. This is important as exposure to BPA, for example, has been linked to possible adverse health effects on the brain and prostate gland of fetuses, infants, and children. It may also impact children's behaviour and has been associated with increased blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

While the specific details of the silicone coating used by Bakers Secret may not be publicly available, it is clear that their products are designed with safety and quality in mind, offering consumers a non-stick option that differs from traditional Teflon coatings.

The coating is safe for consumption

Teflon, the chemical coating on non-stick pans, has had its fair share of controversy. It is known that Teflon breaks down over time, which can be a cause for concern. However, the coating is generally safe for consumption, and here's why.

Firstly, it's important to understand that not all discoloration is bad. Light discoloration is normal and expected due to food buildup over time. While significant scratches on older pans can be an issue, modern pans manufactured after 2013 no longer contain hazardous chemicals like Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). PFOAs were proven to contain cancer-causing agents, but newer Teflon coatings are now required to be manufactured without these dangerous compounds.

To ensure the safety of your non-stick pans, it's essential to inspect them regularly for any signs of warping, discoloration, or scratches. Warping may not be dangerous, but it can impact the quality of your cooked food. Discoloration, especially when it turns dark, could indicate damage to the non-stick coating. Scratches are the most concerning as they mean the Teflon surface has been compromised, potentially allowing chemicals to flake off into your food.

By following a few simple care and maintenance tips, you can prolong the life of your non-stick pans. Use nonabrasive scrubbers and cleaners, and avoid stacking other items on top of the pans to prevent scratches. Additionally, opt for silicone or soft wood utensils when cooking to minimise scratches. With proper care, your non-stick pans will remain safe for consumption and provide an easy-to-clean cooking experience.

The pans are built to last and are easy to clean

Baker's Secret non-stick pans are built to last and are easy to clean. The brand has been a nationwide favourite since 1972, and its products are designed with the idea of "baking perfection" in mind. The pans are made of extra-durable thick steel and are dishwasher-safe, scratch-resistant, and metal spatula-safe. The proprietary non-stick coating ensures that baked goods can be served effortlessly and that the pans last a lifetime.

The Classic Collection features 0.5mm thick carbon steel cake pans with a premium non-stick coating for easy release. The Advanced Collection offers 0.9mm thick pans with a double-layered premium non-stick coating. Both collections are oven-safe up to 450°F and come with a one-year warranty.

The non-stick coating on Baker's Secret pans is not Teflon. Instead, it uses silicone, similar to that found in a Silpat mat. This coating is safe for use and non-toxic, even if it is accidentally consumed due to scratches or other damage. To clean the pans, it is recommended to hand wash them with non-abrasive sponges.

The pans are PFOA, BPA and cadmium-free

A search reveals that Baker's Secret non-stick pans are indeed PFOA, BPA, and cadmium-free. This is important information for consumers who are conscious of their health and the environment. Let's break down what each of these terms means and why it's significant:

PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid) is a chemical compound once commonly used in the manufacturing of Teflon and similar non-stick coatings. However, PFOA has been linked to various health issues, including cancer, liver damage, and developmental problems. Due to these concerns, many companies, including Baker's Secret, have phased out the use of PFOA in their non-stick coatings. By being PFOA-free, Baker's Secret pans are safer for both consumers and the environment, as PFOA is a persistent environmental pollutant.

BPA (Bisphenol A) is another chemical often found in plastic products and the lining of food cans. Like PFOA, BPA has raised health concerns due to its potential endocrine-disrupting properties. It can mimic the body's natural hormones, potentially leading to a range of health issues, especially in children and infants. Baker's Secret pans being BPA-free ensures that your food remains safe and free from this potentially harmful chemical, giving you peace of mind.

Cadmium is a heavy metal that, if ingested, can accumulate in the body over time and lead to serious health issues, including kidney damage and osteoporosis. It has been classified as a carcinogen by various health organizations. Some non-stick coatings may contain cadmium, which can leach into food during the cooking process, especially if the pan is overheated. By choosing Baker's Secret pans that are cadmium-free, you eliminate the risk of this heavy metal contaminating your food.

The absence of these chemicals in Baker's Secret non-stick pans demonstrates a commitment to producing safe and healthy cookware for consumers. It ensures that your food remains free from potentially harmful substances, reducing any associated health risks. This is especially important for those who use non-stick pans regularly for cooking a variety of meals. By choosing Baker's Secret, consumers can have confidence in the safety and quality of their cookware.

It is always important to research the products we use daily and understand their potential impact on our health and the environment. Baker's Secret's decision to eliminate these chemicals from their non-stick pans showcases a responsible approach to cookware manufacturing, providing consumers with a safer and more sustainable option for their kitchen.

The pans are oven-safe up to 450°F

The Baker's Secret Non-Stick Pan is oven-safe up to 450°F. This is a common temperature limit for non-stick pans, as they can release fumes if they are overheated above this temperature. However, the Baker's Secret pan has been tested at higher temperatures, and the brand recommends keeping the pan at or below 450°F.

The pan's coating is safe for use and non-toxic, even if it is accidentally scratched or pilled. The coating is also BPA, PTFE, PFOA, and cadmium-free, which is important as these chemicals have been linked to adverse health effects.

The Baker's Secret Non-Stick Pan is a durable, long-lasting product that can be used for many years. The brand recommends hand-washing the pan with non-abrasive sponges to prolong its life.

The pan is also generously sized, allowing for large batches of baking, and features a scratch-resistant surface for easy food release and quick cleanup.

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