Marianne Martinez
Hexclad is a brand of cookware that has gained popularity for its hybrid design, combining stainless steel, cast iron, and non-stick features. The brand has faced scrutiny for its marketing claims, particularly regarding the absence of harmful chemicals in its products. While Hexclad asserts that its cookware is free of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), recent lawsuits and investigations have raised concerns about the accuracy of these representations. Some consumers and experts suspect that Hexclad may have used PFAS, specifically PTFE or Teflon, in its non-stick coating, which could pose health and environmental risks. Hexclad has since changed its coating to ceramic, claiming it to be PFAS-free, but the lack of transparency about the coating's composition persists.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| PFAS-free | As of 2024, Hexclad pans are PFAS-free. However, there is a class-action lawsuit alleging that Hexclad markets its cookware as environmentally friendly and free of harmful PFAS chemicals when it contains PFAS. |
| PTFE-free | Hexclad pans are now PTFE-free and use ceramic instead. |
| PFOA-free | Hexclad pans are PFOA-free. However, some sources claim that being PFOA-free while containing other PFAS, such as PTFE, would be non-compliant. |
| Non-stick | Hexclad pans are marketed as non-stick due to their ceramic coating. However, food can still stick, especially if the pan is not heated properly or oiled. |
| Heat-safe | Hexclad pans are heat-safe up to temperatures of 500°F-600ºF. |
| Scratch-resistant | Hexclad pans are scratch-resistant, even when used with metal utensils. |
| Weight | Hexclad pans are relatively heavy, weighing around 2-3 pounds. |
| Oven-safe | Hexclad pans are oven-safe. |
| Durability | Hexclad pans are marketed as durable due to their stainless steel and cast iron components. However, the ceramic coating may limit longevity as it can scratch and wear away over time. |
| Ease of use | Hexclad pans have gently curved sides, which allow steam to vent readily. The pans heat up quickly and have a balanced feel. |
| Price | Hexclad pans are expensive, with a 12-inch skillet costing around $200. |
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What You'll Learn
Hexclad's marketing claims
HexClad markets its hybrid cookware as combining the performance of stainless steel, the durability of cast iron, and the convenience of non-stick pans. The pans are described as heat-safe up to 500°F, with gently curved sides that allow steam to vent readily. The textured surface features raised stainless steel hexagons, which are meant to be non-stick "valleys".
However, some users have found that food sticks to the pan unless it is heated properly and oiled. The stainless steel hexagons also mean that the pan is not truly non-stick, and the ceramic non-stick coating means it is not as durable as a purely stainless steel skillet. The ceramic coating also scratches and wears away over time, especially when used with metal utensils, and there are concerns about the pan leaching chemicals into food.
In 2024, HexClad changed its coating from PTFE to ceramic, which is PTFE-free and PFAS-free. However, the company did not make a clear announcement about this change, and some customers feel that they were misled about the original PTFE coating being safe. There is also a lack of transparency about what is in the new ceramic coating, as HexClad does not reveal its composition or provide third-party testing.
A class-action lawsuit filed in California in December 2024 alleges that HexClad deceptively markets its cookware as environmentally friendly and free of harmful PFAS chemicals when it actually contains PFAS. The plaintiffs claim that HexClad is guilty of "greenwashing", or profiting off consumers' desire for "green" products without actually being environmentally friendly.
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PFAS-free alternatives
Hexclad pans are marketed as "hybrid" cookware that combines the performance of stainless steel, the durability of cast iron, and the convenience of non-stick pans. However, there is some debate over whether Hexclad pans contain PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). While some sources claim that Hexclad pans are PFAS-free, others suggest that they may contain PFAS or use coatings that are not truly PFAS-free.
To avoid any potential risk, it is recommended to use PFAS-free alternatives. Here are some options for PFAS-free non-stick cookware:
- Cast Iron Pans: Properly seasoned and maintained, cast iron pans can be a great natural non-stick option. The Calphalon Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron pan is an enticing alternative, as it is easy to clean and performs well for searing steak and baking cornbread.
- Carbon Steel Pans: Carbon steel pans, such as the Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel pan, offer extreme versatility and can be used on both the stovetop and in the oven. However, they require seasoning before the first use and regular reseasoning.
- Stainless Steel Pans: Stainless steel pans like the IKEA 365+ pan are a more affordable option that performs similarly to more expensive alternatives. The Oxo Mira Tri-Ply pan is another option that delivers superb cooking evenness and has a comfortable, sturdy handle that stays cool during cooking.
- Ceramic Non-Stick Pans: Ceramic is naturally non-stick, and ceramic-coated pans are PFAS-free. The GreenPan brand is a popular choice for ceramic non-stick cookware, offering both performance and peace of mind. Their Bobby Flay collection features PFAS-free ceramic non-stick frypans that are durable, easy to clean, and optimized for all stovetops, including induction.
When choosing PFAS-free non-stick cookware, it is important to read the product specifications carefully and look for indications of PFAS-free claims. While some manufacturers may label their products as ""PFOA-free," it does not necessarily mean they are PFAS-free. It is best to look for explicit mentions of "PFAS-free" or "no PFAS" to ensure the cookware is truly free of these chemicals.
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Ceramic coating
Hexclad pans are marketed as "hybrid" cookware that combines the performance of stainless steel, the durability of cast iron, and the convenience of non-stick pans. The non-stick quality of Hexclad pans comes from ceramic "valleys" between stainless steel hexagons. While ceramic coatings are known to scratch and wear away over time, Hexclad pans are heat-safe up to 500°F, and with proper care, the coating should last a good amount of time.
Regarding the presence of PFAS, there is some discrepancy in the information available. Some sources claim that Hexclad pans do not contain PFAS, while others suggest that they may contain PFAS due to the presence of PTFE (Teflon), which falls under the definition of PFAS according to the State of California. Hexclad has been accused of not providing legally required disclosures, and it is recommended that consumers who have purchased Hexclad cookware contact an attorney.
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Health and environmental impact
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are problematic to human health and the environment. They are considered ubiquitous, persistent, and toxic. PFAS can be found in water, soil, air, and food, as well as in materials found in homes or workplaces. PFAS are used to make products resistant to stains, oil, and water. PFAS can accumulate in the bodies of humans and animals over time, and some PFAS chemicals can last for years or decades in our bodies.
PFAS exposure can occur through various means, including drinking water contaminated with PFAS, eating certain foods such as fish, swallowing contaminated soil or dust, breathing air containing PFAS, and using products made with or packaged in materials containing PFAS. Working in certain occupations, such as firefighting or chemical manufacturing and processing, can also lead to higher levels of PFAS exposure.
The health effects of PFAS exposure are still being researched, but current studies have shown that exposure to certain levels of PFAS may lead to reproductive issues, developmental delays in children, increased risk of certain cancers, a weakened immune system, and interference with natural hormones.
To reduce PFAS exposure, individuals can avoid using nonstick pans that may contain PFAS and opt for alternative materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, or carbon steel. While some cookware companies claim to be "PFOA-free," they may still contain other PFAS, so it is important for consumers to be aware and informed about the products they are using.
From an environmental perspective, PFAS can persist in the environment for long periods and are challenging to break down. They can contaminate soil and water near waste sites, landfills, disposal sites, and hazardous waste sites. PFAS are also commonly found in fire-extinguishing foam, which can further contribute to environmental contamination during training and emergency response events.
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Class-action lawsuit
HexClad Cookware Inc. faces a class-action lawsuit filed by Khuschbu Didwania, Pratikkumar Patel, and Benjamin Adams in California federal court. The lawsuit alleges that the company deceptively markets its cookware products as environmentally friendly and free of harmful chemicals, specifically PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances).
PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals", have been used for decades to create stain-resistant, oil-resistant, and water-resistant properties in various products. These chemicals are problematic for human health and the environment due to their persistence and toxicity. They can remain in the human body for years or decades, so it is crucial to minimise exposure through food, water, and cookware.
The plaintiffs in the class-action lawsuit claim that HexClad is guilty of unjust enrichment, breach of express warranty, and negligent misrepresentation. They also allege that HexClad has violated California's Consumer Legal Remedies Act, False Advertising Law, and Unfair Competition Law. The plaintiffs are demanding a jury trial and seeking injunctive relief and damages for themselves and all class members.
The lawsuit was filed after concerns were raised about the safety of HexClad cookware. Some consumers and attorneys have questioned whether HexClad's products contain harmful chemicals, despite being advertised as safe for everyday use. Investigations by legal firms, such as Girard Sharp, are ongoing, and consumers who have purchased HexClad cookware are advised to contact consumer protection attorneys to understand their rights and seek potential relief.
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Frequently asked questions
Hexclad pans have been the subject of a class-action lawsuit alleging that the company markets its products as environmentally friendly and free of harmful PFAS chemicals when they actually contain them. However, some sources claim that Hexclad has since changed its coating to ceramic, which is PFAS-free.
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are used to make products stain-resistant, oil-resistant, and water-resistant. They are considered toxic and can be harmful to human health and the environment.
PFAS are considered toxic and can last for years or decades in our bodies. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to various health issues, including cancer.
Yes, there are several alternatives to Hexclad pans that are PFAS-free. Some options include cast iron, carbon steel, stainless steel, and glass cookware.
