Calphalon Pans: Pfas-Free? A Safer Kitchen Choice?

Calphalon is a brand of cookware owned by the Newell Rubbermaid corporation. Calphalon non-stick surfaces use a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coating, which is similar to the coating used by Teflon. PTFE is a synthetic resin with a slick surface and a high heat tolerance. While PTFE is generally considered safe, it can begin to release fumes at extremely high temperatures, which can be harmful to humans and fatal to birds. PTFE was previously manufactured using a chemical known as PFOA, which was linked to various illnesses and health concerns. However, since 2013, PFOA has been removed from the PTFE manufacturing process, and Calphalon's PTFE coating is now completely PFOA-free. While Calphalon's non-stick coatings do not contain PFOA, they do fall under the broader category of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are often used in other consumer goods.

Calphalon's non-stick coating is made by GMM Non-Stick Coatings

Calphalon's non-stick coating is PTFE-based, but they do not use Teflon-branded PTFE coatings. PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is a synthetic resin with a slick surface and a high heat tolerance.

PTFE used to be made with a chemical known as PFOA, which was linked to illnesses and health concerns. Since 2013, however, PFOA 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.

Calphalon's non-stick pans are safe as long as they are not overheated or scratched. PTFE starts to release fumes at 536°F, which are harmful to humans and dangerous to birds. Calphalon recommends not exceeding their temperature range of 400 to 500°F and not using their non-stick pans in the broiler.

Calphalon's non-stick pans are not made with Teflon

Calphalon non-stick pans are not made with Teflon. Instead, Calphalon uses PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), a synthetic resin with a slick surface and tolerance for high heat. While PTFE and Teflon share similar properties, they are not the same thing.

Calphalon's PTFE is supplied by GMM Non-Stick Coatings, a global supplier of premium non-stick coatings for cookware, bakeware, and kitchen appliances. The PTFE that Calphalon uses is PFOA-free, which was linked to known illnesses and health concerns. Since 2013, PFOA has been removed from the non-stick manufacturing process to protect people and the environment.

Calphalon's non-stick pans are made with a hard-anodized aluminum base, which is non-reactive and won't leach metal into food due to the hardened exterior layer created during the anodizing process. The non-stick coating prevents food from ever coming into contact with the aluminum base.

It's important to note that overheating Calphalon non-stick cookware can be dangerous. PTFE starts to release fumes at 536°F, which are harmful to humans and dangerous to birds. Therefore, it's recommended to use low to medium heat when cooking with Calphalon non-stick pans and to avoid overheating.

Calphalon also offers a range of ceramic-coated pots and pans that are PTFE-free for those who prefer a non-stick option without PTFE.

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

Calphalon non-stick cookware is made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a synthetic resin with a slick surface and a high heat tolerance. PTFE is the material trademarked as Teflon. Calphalon's PTFE is manufactured by GMM Non-Stick Coatings, a global supplier of premium non-stick coatings for cookware, bakeware, and kitchen appliances.

PTFE was once made with perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a chemical linked to various illnesses and health concerns. Since 2013, however, PFOA has been removed from the non-stick manufacturing process, and Calphalon's PTFE is now completely PFOA-free.

While PTFE is generally safe, it can start to release fumes at temperatures above 500°F (260°C). These fumes are harmful to humans and can be lethal to birds. Therefore, it is important to use Calphalon non-stick cookware within the recommended temperature range of 400 to 500°F and avoid overheating.

Additionally, PTFE can be damaged by metal utensils or harsh cleaning instruments, so it is advisable to use non-metal utensils and wash Calphalon cookware by hand.

In summary, Calphalon's PTFE-based non-stick coating is safe for cooking as long as it is used and maintained properly, avoiding high temperatures and scratching or damaging the coating.

PTFE is harmless unless the pan's surface is scratched or the maximum temperature is exceeded

PTFE is a synthetic resin with a slick surface and a high heat tolerance. It is deemed safe for use in cookware, but only if the pan's surface remains unscratched and the maximum temperature is not exceeded.

PTFE is one of about 4,700 compounds that comprise a class of chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS. PFAS chemicals have been linked to various negative health outcomes, including kidney and testicular cancers, and endocrine disruption.

PTFE starts to release fumes once it reaches 536°F. These fumes are harmful to humans and dangerous to birds. Polymer fume fever, or "Teflon flu," can occur when these fumes are inhaled. Symptoms usually present within four to ten hours after exposure and typically resolve within 48 hours.

Therefore, it is important to use PTFE-coated cookware correctly to avoid potential health risks. This includes not exceeding the recommended temperature range of 400 to 500°F, not using high heat on the stove, and not using metal utensils that could scratch the surface.

Calphalon non-stick cookware is made with PTFE-based coatings. However, their products are PFOA-free, addressing a previous concern with PTFE coatings. As long as Calphalon products are used as recommended, they are considered safe for cooking.

Calphalon's ceramic cookware is PTFE-free

Calphalon's ceramic cookware is also highly durable and delivers 3x better non-stick release than its Classic Ceramic range. The hard-anodized aluminum construction ensures fast and even heating, and the tempered glass cover and long handle stay cool while cooking on the stovetop.

The ceramic cookware is oven-safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and is protected by Calphalon's 10-year warranty.

While Calphalon's non-stick cookware is also PFOA-free, some people may prefer PTFE-free cookware as PTFE can break down into PFOA at high temperatures. Calphalon's ceramic cookware provides a safer alternative without compromising on the non-stick properties.

In addition to being PTFE-free, Calphalon's ceramic cookware also offers a more sustainable option. The manufacturing process of non-stick surfaces directly pollutes drinking water with toxic chemicals, and these pans eventually end up in landfills, leaching their chemicals into the soil over time.

While Calphalon's ceramic cookware is a safer and more environmentally friendly option, it is important to note that no studies have been found regarding the long-term health effects of aluminum leeching into food. However, with Calphalon's ceramic cookware, the aluminum is encapsulated, ensuring no direct contact with food.

Overall, Calphalon's ceramic cookware is a PTFE-free, durable, and safe option for health-conscious consumers.

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