Safe Non-Stick Pans: Best Choices For Your Kitchen

Non-stick pans are typically coated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are known as forever chemicals due to their ability to persist in the environment and accumulate in the human body. While PFAS-free non-stick pans are available, concerns have been raised about their durability and potential presence of other harmful chemicals. As a result, some people prefer to use alternative materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, carbon steel, or ceramic. When choosing a non-stick pan, it is important to consider factors such as durability, ease of use, and potential health risks associated with different materials.

Ceramic-coated cookware

Most ceramic cookware is metal glazed with ceramic, although some types are made from clay, baked in a kiln, and glazed. Ceramic pans hold heat more efficiently than traditional pans, so it is recommended to use ceramic cookware on low to medium heat when cooking. Ceramic cookware is also oven-safe, with some sets safe up to temperatures of 650ºF.

When it comes to choosing a ceramic cookware set, it is important to consider the material, size, cleanability, and induction compatibility. Ceramic cookware can be made from a variety of materials, including coated aluminized steel, coated stainless steel, and clay. The heavier the pan, the better it will sear and retain heat without overheating, but lighter pans are quicker to heat and easier to manoeuvre. Most sets come with around 10 pieces, including a variety of fry pans, saucepans, and small stock pots. To extend the life of your ceramic cookware, it is recommended to hand-wash the items, even if they are dishwasher-safe.

Some popular options for ceramic-coated cookware include:

• Caraway: Caraway's ceramic coating is effectively non-stick and free of heavy metals and "forever chemicals". The brand offers a 12-piece set that includes frying pans, saucepans, a sauté pan, and a stockpot, as well as magnetic pan racks and a lid holder for easy storage.
• GreenPan: GreenPan was the first to invent non-toxic ceramic cookware in 2007, creating a non-stick coating derived from sand. Their GP5 line features their most advanced ceramic non-stick collection, with more layers of ceramic non-stick infused with diamonds for extra durability.
• Williams Sonoma: Williams Sonoma offers a 10-piece ceramic-coated cookware set that includes sturdy pieces with wide handles. The set includes a 10-inch skillet, stock pot, lids, and other pieces, all of which are oven-safe.
• Calphalon: Calphalon offers an 11-piece ceramic cookware set that includes fry pans, saucepans, and a stockpot. The set is PTFE- and PFOA-free, with an olive oil-infused ceramic coating that allows for cooking without adding oil or butter.
• Farberware: Farberware's EcoAdvantage Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set is lightweight and easy to handle, with large, comfortable handles. The set includes a 10-inch skillet, saucepans, and other pieces, and is available in blue and gray.

Ceramic cookware is a safe and non-toxic option, free from PFAS, PFOA, and PTFE. However, it is important to note that ceramic cookware may not last as long as PTFE cookware, and proper care is needed to extend its lifespan.

Stainless steel cookware

When choosing stainless steel cookware, look for a fully-clad pan with an aluminium or copper core. Good stainless steel cookware will have a core of aluminium or copper sandwiched between layers of stainless steel to aid in heat conduction. The number of layers will be described by its "ply". The most common is tri-ply, but pans can also come in 5-ply or 7-ply (referred to as "multi-clad"). Stainless steel cookware with an aluminium core is also induction-compatible.

Some popular options for stainless steel cookware include:

• All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Everyday 10-Piece Cookware Set: This set includes a comprehensive selection of pots, pans, and lids, all made with All-Clad's signature 18/10 stainless steel wrapped around a highly conductive aluminium core. While this set is undoubtedly expensive, it will last a lifetime with proper care.
• Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad 10-Piece Set: This set is induction-compatible and features incredibly lightweight design and even heat distribution. It is priced a little below average for comparable sets.
• Le Creuset Stainless Steel Cookware Set: This set is lightweight, responsive to heat changes, and includes a useful strainer/steamer insert for the stockpot. It is also surprisingly easy to clean.
• Made In 6-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set: This set includes a full assortment of stainless steel pans, plus an all-important nonstick skillet. Made In's pots and pans are exceptionally designed and balanced, with five-ply clad stainless construction that facilitates even heating and quick temperature response.

When it comes to care, most stainless steel pots and pans can be cleaned with a sponge and hot, soapy water. Some brands are also dishwasher-safe, but you should always check the manufacturer's instructions. Compared to cast iron, stainless steel is low-maintenance and does not require any fussy seasoning. However, frequent and direct high heat can cause discolouration and, in thinner pans, warping.

Cast iron cookware

Cast iron is an excellent heat conductor and retains heat very well. You can use it on any heat source, including induction, gas, electric, natural gas, propane, charcoal, or even over a campfire. It's also oven-safe, with some brands safe up to 500°F.

Cast iron skillets are usually pre-seasoned with a coating of food-safe oil, which helps food release easily. However, this layer breaks down over time, and the pan will need to be re-seasoned periodically. A well-seasoned pan is fairly easy to hand-wash, but it's still important to be careful with your cooking techniques, as cast iron retains heat very well and can overheat, causing food to stick. When cooking with cast iron, it's recommended to use a lower heat setting and plenty of oil or butter.

Overall, cast iron cookware is a safe, non-toxic, and durable option for your kitchen. With proper care and maintenance, it can last for generations.

Carbon steel cookware

Carbon steel is an excellent heat conductor, heating up quickly and evenly, and it can withstand high temperatures. This makes it ideal for searing, stir-frying, and grilling. The more you use a carbon steel pan, the more non-stick its surface becomes. With proper care, a carbon steel pan can last a lifetime.

However, carbon steel does require some special care. It should not be soaked in water or put in the dishwasher, as this can cause rusting. Instead, hand-washing and immediate drying are recommended. It is also important to avoid cooking acidic foods such as tomatoes or vinegar in carbon steel pans, as these can strip the natural seasoning and cause iron leaching.

Carbon steel pans are available in a range of sizes and shapes, including frying pans, woks, grill pans, and crepe pans. Some pans come pre-seasoned, allowing you to start cooking with them right away, while others will need to be seasoned before use.

Enamel-coated cast iron cookware

Enameled cast iron is a combination of the weight and heat capacity of regular cast iron with a smooth, glass-like enamel layer that is easier to care for. The enamel coating is baked on at incredibly high temperatures, bonding it securely to the metal. This makes it more durable and long-lasting than traditional non-stick coatings.

One of the benefits of enameled cast iron is that it is metal utensil-safe, so you don't have to worry about using metal utensils damaging the surface. It is also oven-safe, with most pieces able to withstand temperatures up to 500°F, and some even going up to 900°F. This makes it a versatile option for various cooking techniques, including searing, stewing, baking, braising, and serving.

When it comes to cleaning, enameled cast iron is generally dishwasher-safe, although hand washing is recommended to prolong its lifespan.

Some popular brands that offer enameled cast iron cookware include Lodge, Staub, Crock-Pot, Amazon Basics, and Bruntmor. These brands offer a range of products, from Dutch ovens and casseroles to skillets and saucepans, in various colours and sizes to suit your needs.

Overall, enameled cast iron cookware is a safe, durable, and versatile option for your kitchen, providing even heat distribution and excellent heat retention.

Frequently asked questions