Are Ceramic Pans Pfas-Free?

Ceramic pans are generally considered safe to use. They are PFAS-free and do not release harmful chemicals when overheated. However, some ceramic pans may degrade over time, and it is recommended to use wooden or silicone utensils to preserve the coating.

Do ceramic pans have PFAS?

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of chemicals that have been used in consumer products since the 1940s. They are found in many everyday items such as stain-resistant furniture, waterproof clothing, and cosmetics, as well as nonstick cookware. Due to possible links to various health issues, including liver damage, lowered immunity in children, and certain cancers, many people are now looking to avoid PFAS in their cookware.

Ceramic Pans

Ceramic pans are generally considered safe and PFAS-free. They are made without the use of PFAS, including PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene, also known as Teflon), which are often found in traditional nonstick pans. Ceramic pans have a coating made from silica, or silicon dioxide, that is applied to a metal body and dried to create a hard, glossy film. This process does not involve any potentially harmful chemicals.

Testing Ceramic Pans for PFAS

Consumer Reports tested two ceramic-coated pans, the Our Place Always Pan and the Red Copper pan, for 96 different PFAS chemicals, including PFOA. Neither of these pans was found to contain any of the PFAS chemicals tested for.

While ceramic pans are considered safe and PFAS-free, there are some things to keep in mind. Over time, the ceramic coating can degrade and scratch, which will affect the pan's nonstick properties. It is recommended to use wooden or silicone utensils and to avoid high temperatures, as well as to hand wash with mild soap and water to prolong the life of the coating.

Alternatives to Ceramic Pans

If you are looking for alternatives to ceramic pans, there are several options that are also considered PFAS-free. These include:

• Stainless steel
• Cast iron
• Carbon steel
• Enamel-coated cast iron

What are PFAS?

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a large and complex group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in consumer products since the 1940s or 1950s. They are man-made and widely used, with components that break down very slowly over time. PFAS are used in a variety of everyday products, including non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant fabrics and carpets, cosmetics, firefighting foam, and products that resist grease, water, and oil.

PFAS molecules have a chain of linked carbon and fluorine atoms, and because the carbon-fluorine bond is one of the strongest, these chemicals do not easily degrade in the environment. They are found in water, air, fish, and soil, and due to their widespread use and persistence, they are present in the blood of people and animals worldwide. They are also found at low levels in various food products and the environment.

PFAS exposure has been linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals. These health effects include altered metabolism and body weight regulation, an increased risk of certain cancers, and a reduced ability of the immune system to fight infections. PFAS are often referred to as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment and the body.

While PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonic acid) have been phased out of production and use in the United States, other countries may still manufacture and use them. New kinds of PFAS are being developed, but there is limited research on their potential health impacts.

To reduce exposure to PFAS, it is recommended to use uncoated pans or those with ceramic coatings, which are less likely to contain PFAS.

Are PFAS dangerous?

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a group of manufactured chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s. PFAS are sometimes called "forever chemicals" because they do not break down easily and can dissolve in water. This means they can build up in the environment and in people's bodies over time.

PFAS are used to make everyday household products and items used in industries. They can be found in drinking water systems, soil, air, food, materials in our homes and workplaces, personal care products, and more.

PFAS exposure may lead to adverse health outcomes. Research is still ongoing to determine how different levels and types of exposure to PFAS can impact human health. However, current studies have shown that exposure to certain levels of PFAS may lead to:

• Reproductive issues such as decreased fertility or increased high blood pressure in pregnant women.
• Developmental effects or delays in children, including low birth weight, accelerated puberty, bone variations, or behavioural changes.
• An increased risk of certain cancers, including prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers.
• A reduced ability of the body's immune system to fight infections, including a reduced response to vaccines.
• Interference with the body's natural hormones.
• Increased cholesterol levels and/or risk of obesity.
• Changes in liver enzymes.
• Pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia.
• Small decreases in birth weight.

PFAS exposure can occur through various routes, including:

• Working in certain occupations such as firefighting or chemical manufacturing and processing.
• Drinking water contaminated with PFAS.
• Eating certain foods that may contain PFAS, such as fish, dairy products, and produce.
• Swallowing contaminated soil or dust.
• Breathing air containing PFAS.
• Using products made with or packaged in materials containing PFAS, such as non-stick cookware, cleaning products, personal care products, and food packaging.

How to avoid PFAS in cookware?

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of chemicals that have been used in consumer products since the 1940s and are found in many everyday items aside from nonstick cookware, like stain-resistant furniture, waterproof clothing, and cosmetics.

How to avoid PFAS in cookware

To avoid PFAS in your cookware, it is recommended to buy products with “PTFE-free claims,” such as pans with ceramic coatings. Uncoated pans made from carbon steel and cast iron can also be good options.

• Check the manual for the item's maximum temperature capacity. Exceeding this temperature can cause nonstick coatings to break down, and you don't want that PFAS in your food.
• Avoid overheating a PTFE pan as it can result in off-gassing that may lead to flu-like symptoms called polymer fume fever.
• Use only wooden and silicone utensils to keep the coating intact.
• Hand wash your cookware with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge.
• Store carefully and never stack heavy items on top of your ceramic-coated cookware.

Ceramic pans

Ceramic pans are generally safe and PFAS-free. The ceramic nonstick coating on the Always Pan, for example, is made without forever chemicals (PFAS), lead, or cadmium so you can cook worry-free.

However, it's important to note that ceramic coatings do slowly degrade over time. While this may not be a cause for concern, if you really care about such things, the only options that are 100% proven safe and not to shed unknown things into your food are bare metal pans.

What are the alternatives to ceramic pans?

If you're looking for alternatives to ceramic pans, there are a few options to consider. Here are some suggestions:

Stainless Steel Cookware

Stainless steel cookware is a popular alternative to non-stick pans. While some people find it challenging to cook with stainless steel, it offers excellent value for money and can last a long time if cared for properly. Stainless steel pans are also relatively low maintenance compared to cast iron, and you don't have to worry about cooking on high heat or being too careful with them. However, there will be a learning curve involved in mastering the techniques to prevent food from sticking.

Cast Iron Cookware

Cast iron cookware has been used for thousands of years and is known for its durability, heat retention, and value. It can be used on various heat sources, including induction, electric, gas, charcoal, or even a campfire. While cast iron requires more maintenance than other materials, such as hand-washing and regular seasoning, it can last for generations with proper care. Keep in mind that cast iron cookware is heavier than other options and needs to be dried thoroughly to prevent rust.

Enamelled Cast Iron Cookware

If you want the benefits of cast iron but with a smoother, easier-to-maintain surface, enamelled cast iron cookware is a great option. Brands like Staub and Le Creuset offer enameled cast iron pots and pans that combine the heat retention and distribution of cast iron with a non-toxic, smooth glaze. These pots and pans are easy to clean and can be used for various cooking techniques, including searing, stewing, baking, and braising.

Other Non-Stick Alternatives

If you're specifically looking for non-stick alternatives to ceramic pans, there are a few options available. One option is to look for ceramic-coated pans from brands like Cuisinart or T-Fal, which offer PFOA and PTFE-free non-stick coatings. Another option is to explore other forms of non-stick coatings, such as the Starfrit The Rock line, but be sure to read the product descriptions carefully as some may still contain PTFE.

Frequently asked questions