Scratches On Baking Pans: Harmful Or Harmless?

Scratches on non-stick pans are a common concern for many home cooks. While some believe that these scratches can cause harmful substances to be released into food, others argue that it is relatively safe to continue using these pans. So, what's the verdict? The current consensus is that while scratches on non-stick pans may not pose a direct health hazard, it is generally recommended to replace them to maintain optimal performance and avoid potential risks. Scratches can cause flakes of the non-stick coating to end up in your food, impacting taste and texture. Additionally, non-stick pans with scratches or chips may release microplastics and nanoplastics into your food, which could be harmful. To prolong the life of your non-stick pans, it is advisable to hand wash them with soft sponges, avoid metal utensils, and store them with a cloth towel to prevent scratches.

Are scratched non-stick pans dangerous?

Non-stick pans are popular because they allow cooks to use less butter and oil during cooking and make cleaning up easier. However, the non-stick coating can break down over time, and scratches can cause the release of toxic compounds. So, are scratched non-stick pans dangerous?

The answer is yes and no. If you're using an older pan, particularly one that's been handed down, or if it's from a brand made outside the United States, it's more likely to be made with dangerous chemicals. These chemicals, known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), are often used to create the non-stick coating on pans. Older non-stick pans with PFAS have been linked to various health issues, including liver problems, high blood pressure, and certain cancers in humans.

Since a federal ruling in 2013, the use of PFAS has been prohibited in all American-made non-stick cookware. For newer non-stick pans made in the US, health risks associated with scratches are considered unlikely. However, it's still not advisable to continue using a scratched non-stick pan, as flakes of the coating may end up in your food, and the pan's non-stick abilities will be diminished.

To protect your non-stick pans and extend their life, it's recommended to hand wash them with a soft sponge, use wooden or silicone utensils, and avoid stacking them to prevent scratches.

What are the health risks of scratched non-stick pans?

Non-stick pans are coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), often known by the brand name Teflon. Older non-stick pans were made using per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), specifically two chemicals called PFOA and PFOS, which are known as "forever chemicals" because they take so long to break down.

Since 2013, the use of PFOA has been prohibited in all American-made non-stick cookware, and in 2014, PFOS was also phased out of the production of PTFE. However, this doesn't mean that newer non-stick pans are completely free of PFAS—they may still contain other, less-studied PFAS, and it's unclear how safe these are.

When a non-stick pan gets scratched, small particles of its coating can flake off into your food. A 2022 study found that scratched non-stick pans coated with PFAS released thousands to millions of microplastics and nanoplastics. These chemicals may be linked to various adverse health effects, including liver issues, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) state that exposure to PFAS at certain levels may be harmful to human health, but the effects of low levels of these chemicals are still unknown.

To reduce the potential health risks associated with scratched non-stick pans, it is recommended to replace any non-stick cookware when its coating is damaged, especially if it was manufactured before 2015. It is also important to follow the instructions that come with your non-stick pan, as using it at temperatures above those recommended can also release toxic chemicals.

How to care for non-stick pans

Non-stick pans are a godsend in the kitchen, but they do require some TLC to keep them in tip-top condition. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you care for your non-stick pans and keep them performing well for years to come.

Choosing the Right Non-Stick Pan

Not all non-stick pans are created equal. Look for a pan with a durable non-stick coating that is scratch-resistant. Some newer pans have super-hard non-stick coatings that may even be safe to use with metal utensils. However, if you're unsure, always err on the side of caution and assume your pan is not metal-utensil safe.

Avoiding Scratches

One of the most important rules for caring for your non-stick pan is to avoid scratches. Scratches can compromise the non-stick coating and may even expose you to potentially harmful chemicals used in the coating. Here are some tips to avoid scratches:

• Use the right utensils: Always use scratch-friendly utensils such as wood, rubber, silicone, nylon, or plastic. Metal utensils can easily scratch and ruin the non-stick surface.
• Avoid cutting or carving in the pan: Never use your non-stick pan as a cutting board. Cutting or carving with a knife will scratch the surface.
• Store your pans properly: If possible, store your pans hanging with ample space between them. If you need to stack them, place a piece of paper towel, a cloth napkin, or a pan protector between each pan to prevent scratches.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial to the longevity of your non-stick pans. Here are some dos and don'ts:

• Hand wash: Avoid putting your non-stick pans in the dishwasher. Hand wash them with warm, soapy water using a soft sponge or cloth and a non-abrasive, non-stick-safe scouring pad. Stay away from steel wool, scouring pads, sharp scrapers, and harsh cleaning detergents.
• Avoid temperature shocks: Do not submerge a hot pan in cold water or run cold water over it. This can cause warping. Always allow the pan to cool down completely before cleaning.
• Dry thoroughly: After washing, dry your non-stick pan completely with a soft towel before putting it away.
• Avoid cooking sprays: Cooking sprays can leave a residue that is hard to remove and can shorten the lifespan of your non-stick pan. Instead, use a small amount of regular oil or butter.
• Avoid harsh cleaning methods: If you're dealing with burnt-on food, avoid the temptation to use harsh cleaning methods. Instead, fill the pan with water and add a 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Bring it to a boil, then remove from heat, allow it to cool, and skim away any residue. Finally, wash the pan with warm, soapy water.

Cooking Tips

To prolong the life of your non-stick pan and maintain its non-stick properties, follow these cooking tips:

• Use low to medium heat: High heat can damage the non-stick coating and cause it to warp. Most non-stick pans have a heat warning label, so pay attention to the recommended temperature.
• Use the right fats: Oils with a high smoke point, such as grapeseed, sesame, or avocado oil, are better suited for non-stick pans. Low smoke point oils, like extra virgin olive oil, burn more easily and can decrease the pan's non-stick properties.
• Preheat the pan: Always preheat your pan and add oil or butter before adding food. This helps with sticking and the integrity of your ingredients.
• Avoid acidic foods: Cooking acidic foods, such as tomatoes or lemons, in your non-stick pan can promote flaking and damage the coating.
• Don't store food in the pan: Use plastic containers for storing food instead of your non-stick pans. Storing food in the pan may also promote degradation.

What are non-stick pan alternatives?

If your baking pan has scratches, it may be time to consider a replacement, especially if the scratches are affecting the non-stick coating. While there are no proven health risks associated with cooking using non-stick pans, there are still plenty of reasons to consider alternatives. Here are some alternatives to non-stick pans:

Ceramic Non-Stick Pans

Ceramic non-stick pans are coated with natural materials, usually sand-derived silicon. They offer a similar food release and ease of use as traditional non-stick pans without the risk of releasing fumes at high temperatures. They are also affordable, come in various designs and colours, and are better for the environment. However, they are less durable and must be replaced frequently. They also don't offer the same level of "grip" on food as traditional non-stick pans, and food may start sticking after a few months of use.

Cast Iron Pans

Cast iron pans are highly durable and can last decades when cared for properly. With proper seasoning, cast iron pans develop a natural slick cooking surface that performs similarly to non-stick. They have superior heat tolerance, heat retention, and overall versatility. However, they are heavy, heat slowly, and require extra maintenance. They are also reactive, so you must avoid cooking acidic foods in them.

Enameled Cast Iron Pans

Enameled cast iron pans have all the benefits of cast iron but are easier to clean. They have a protective layer of enamel coating, which makes them non-reactive, rust-resistant, and chip and crack-resistant. They are ideal for slow-cooked meals and look great as a serving dish. However, they are much more expensive than cast iron pans and heat slowly and unevenly. The enamel glaze can also chip or crack over time.

Carbon Steel Pans

Carbon steel pans are lightweight, affordable, and offer a non-stick surface when seasoned properly. They are also highly durable and can withstand much higher temperatures than traditional non-stick pans. However, the surface is not as slick as PTFE-coated non-stick pans, and the seasoning breaks down quickly when cooking acidic foods. Carbon steel is also reactive, so you must avoid certain ingredients like tomato sauce. Additionally, carbon steel pans require extra precaution when cleaning, as they cannot be washed in the dishwasher and soap will strip the seasoning.

Stainless Steel Pans

Stainless steel pans are durable, versatile, and can offer a slick cooking surface with the proper culinary techniques. They are compatible with all cooktops, including induction, and do not release toxic fumes when overheated. However, they are one of the most expensive alternatives and require careful attention and special techniques to minimise sticking. They also take extra effort to clean compared to non-stick pans.

What to do with old non-stick pans

Scratches on a non-stick pan are more than just an eyesore. They can be a health hazard, too. The scratches can cause the non-stick coating to flake off and end up in your food. The coating, often made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), is also known as Teflon. Older non-stick pans may also contain perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a human carcinogen.

If your non-stick pan is scratched, it's time to replace it. But what should you do with the old pan? Here are some options:

Recycle It

Although non-stick pans are made of metal, they cannot be recycled with other scrap metal due to the non-stick coating. Some local recycling programs don't accept cookware at all. However, there are still ways to recycle your old non-stick pans responsibly:

• Find a manufacturer or national recycling program that accepts used cookware. For example, TerraCycle and Calphalon have a cooking tools recycling program where you can print a free shipping label and send off your old pans to be cleaned, processed, and melted down.
• Look for a scrap metal recycler that accepts non-stick cookware. Some businesses offer mail-back options for recycling non-stick pans, such as Made In. They will either recycle the pans or help them find a new home.

Donate It

If your old non-stick pan is slightly warped or dinged but still usable, consider donating it to a local donation center or an organization that works with homeless families or refugees. These groups may need gently used housewares for people setting up new homes. You could also pass it on to a neighbor through a local freecycling or Buy Nothing group.

Dispose of It Safely

If your non-stick pan is too damaged to recycle or donate, you can dispose of it safely and sustainably. Check with your local sanitation department for options, or send it to an upcycling service like TerraCycle.

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