Nonstick Pan Safety: What To Know

Non-stick pans are convenient and easy to clean, but many people wonder if they are safe to use. The answer is yes—but with some caveats. The main concern is that non-stick pans contain harmful chemicals, such as PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), which has been linked to cancer and other health issues. However, thanks to a federal ban, non-stick cookware made after 2013 in the US and 2008 in Europe should be PFOA-free. It's still best to check, especially when buying cheaper or off-brand cookware, and it's recommended to replace non-stick pans every few years.

Another concern is the release of toxic fumes when non-stick pans are overheated. This usually only happens at temperatures over 500°F, which is unlikely to be reached during normal cooking. However, it's best to avoid leaving non-stick pans unattended on a heat source, pre-heating them while empty, or using them at very high temperatures.

To summarise, non-stick pans are generally safe to use, but it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and care for them properly to avoid potential health risks.

Is my nonstick pan scratched, warped, or discoloured?

If your non-stick pan is scratched, warped, or discoloured, it may be time to replace it. Scratches, particularly those exposing the metal underneath, are a deal-breaker, as they can cause food to stick and the coating to flake off into your food. A superficial scratch or two won't affect your pan's performance, but if the surface is covered in scratches, it's time for a new one.

Warping can affect the quality of your food, as it results in an uneven cooking surface. If your pan is warped, it may be time to replace it. Discolouration is also a sign that your pan needs replacing, especially if it's dark, as this indicates that the non-stick coating has been damaged.

It's important to note that non-stick pans don't last forever. A good rule of thumb is to replace them approximately every three to five years.

Is my nonstick pan over ten years old?

If your nonstick pan is over ten years old, it is likely time to replace it.

Nonstick pans are so-called because of a thin layer covering the cooking surface—a layer of plastic on traditional pans and a glass-like ceramic material on ceramic pans. This layer can break down over time, causing food to stick to the pan. While the exact lifespan of a nonstick pan depends on the quality of the pan and how it is cared for, the average nonstick pan lasts between two and five years. Some sources suggest that a high-quality pan can last up to seven years.

If your nonstick pan is over ten years old, it is likely that the nonstick coating has deteriorated, causing food to stick to the pan. This means it is time to replace it. You may also notice other signs of deterioration, such as scratches, chips, discolouration, or warping.

Even if your nonstick pan is less than ten years old, it is important to care for it properly to ensure it lasts as long as possible. This includes avoiding high heat, using soft utensils (such as wooden or silicone tools), and washing the pan gently by hand.

Is my nonstick pan PFOA-free?

If you bought your nonstick pan before 2015, it may contain PFOA. Since PFOA has been linked to health issues, including certain cancers, reproductive issues, and high cholesterol, it's recommended that you replace older nonstick pans.

However, you can now find many PFOA-free pans on the market from best-rated brands like American Kitchen and Anolon. These PFOA-free pans are considered safe for use and are not associated with any health risks, according to the American Cancer Society.

When shopping for a new nonstick pan, look for products that are explicitly marketed as PFOA-free. Some examples of PFOA-free nonstick pans include:

• Caraway nonstick ceramic fry pan
• Xtrema Traditions Skillet
• De Buyer Mineral B Fry Pan
• GreenPan GP5 Stainless
• GreenPan Venice Pro
• Alva Cookware Maestro Nonstick Frying Pan
• Sensarte Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pan
• ESLITE LIFE Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pan
• GOTHAM STEEL Non-Stick Frying Pans
• Blue Diamond Cookware Diamond-Infused Ceramic Nonstick Frying Pan

In addition to being PFOA-free, some of these options also offer other benefits such as being dishwasher-safe, oven-safe, or compatible with induction cooktops.

When using PFOA-free nonstick pans, it's still important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid overheating the pan to maintain its nonstick properties and avoid releasing any toxic compounds.

Is my nonstick pan made in the US or Europe?

Non-stick pans are made in both the US and Europe, but it can be tricky to find high-quality, USA-made non-stick pans. Most non-stick cookware is made in China.

Some non-stick pan brands made in the US include:

• Ameriware Professional
• Calphalon (Elite Line)
• LloydPans
• Tramontina
• Vollrath
• All-Clad
• Nordic Ware
• Made In
• Heritage Steel
• American Kitchen
• American Waterless
• Belkraft Waterless
• Heritage Steel
• Wolf Gourmet

Some non-stick pan brands made in Europe include:

• Scanpan (Denmark)
• Swiss Diamond (Switzerland)
• T-Fal (France)
• Healthy Legend (Germany)
• Green Pan (Germany)
• Solidteknics (USA/Europe)
• Stargazer (USA/Europe)
• Duparquet (USA/Europe)
• Hammersmith (USA/Europe)

What are the alternatives to nonstick pans?

Alternatives to Non-Stick Pans

There are several alternatives to non-stick pans, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Ceramic Non-Stick Pans: Ceramic non-stick pans are coated with natural materials, typically derived from sand. They offer similar food release properties to traditional non-stick pans without the risk of releasing toxic fumes at high temperatures. However, they are less durable and need to be replaced more frequently. Some popular brands for ceramic non-stick pans include GreenPan and Caraway.
• Cast Iron Pans: Cast iron pans are highly durable and can last for decades with proper care. They develop a natural non-stick surface when seasoned properly. Cast iron has superior heat tolerance and retention compared to non-stick pans, but they are heavier and require more maintenance. They also react with acidic foods, so it's important to avoid cooking dishes with ingredients like tomatoes or lemon juice in cast iron pans. Lodge is a well-known brand for cast iron skillets.
• Enameled Cast Iron Pans: Enameled cast iron pans have a thick cast iron base coated with enamel, eliminating the need for seasoning. They offer a stick-resistant surface that is more durable than traditional non-stick pans. Enameled cast iron is easier to clean and can be used with acidic foods. However, they are more expensive, heat slowly and unevenly, and are prone to chipping or cracking. Le Creuset is a popular brand for enameled cast iron cookware.
• Carbon Steel Pans: Carbon steel pans are lightweight and highly durable. They require seasoning but offer a non-stick surface when properly maintained. Carbon steel can withstand higher temperatures than traditional non-stick pans and is compatible with various heat sources. However, the surface may not be as slick as PTFE-coated non-stick pans, and it reacts with acidic foods. Made In and Misen are reputable brands for carbon steel cookware.
• Stainless Steel Pans: Stainless steel cookware is known for its durability and versatility. It heats quickly and evenly and can last a lifetime. Stainless steel pans are non-reactive and don't require seasoning. However, they are more expensive and require careful techniques to minimise sticking. They also take more effort to clean compared to non-stick pans. Reputable brands for stainless steel cookware include All-Clad and Made In.

Frequently asked questions