Green Pan: Ceramic Coating Explained

GreenPan is a brand of non-stick ceramic cookware that is free of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), including polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), PFOA, lead, and cadmium. The coating, Thermolon, is made using a Sol-Gel process, forming a layer of mainly silicon dioxide (SiO2) on the surface of the pan. The coating is applied to a base of either hard anodized aluminum or 3-ply stainless steel.

What is Thermolon?

Thermolon is a ceramic non-stick coating that was first launched on the market in 2007. It is made from sand-derived raw materials, which are turned into a solution and sprayed onto the pan without the need for glue or PFAS additives. The coating is heat resistant up to 850°F/450°C and is free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. Thermolon is also highly resistant to scratches and can be recognised by a green apple sticker on the frying pan when purchased.

Thermolon is considered safe as it won't release toxic fumes, even if the pan is accidentally overheated. It has been certified by third-party testing labs as conforming to international food contact standards set by the US FDA and EU regulators. The coating is also tough enough to be used with metal utensils, although nylon, bamboo, silicone, and wood utensils are recommended to preserve the pan's coating.

The Thermolon coating is made by a Sol-Gel process that results in a coating layer on the surface of the pan. This layer mainly comprises Silicon Dioxide (SiO2), which is the same composition as glass or sand. There are some additional materials such as pigments that give the colour.

Is GreenPan safe?

GreenPan is a popular brand of non-stick cookware that claims to be a healthier alternative to traditional non-stick coatings. The company advertises its products as "completely toxin-free," "healthy," and "free of PFOA, PFAS, lead, and cadmium." However, there have been concerns and lawsuits regarding GreenPan's marketing claims and the safety of its non-stick coating. So, is GreenPan safe? Let's take a closer look.

GreenPan Non-Stick Coating: Thermolon™

GreenPan's non-stick coating, Thermolon™, is a ceramic coating derived from sand-based raw materials and Silicon Dioxide (SiO2). According to GreenPan, Thermolon™ is PFAS- and plastic-free, and it does not contain PTFE, PFOA, lead, or cadmium. The coating is applied through a Sol-Gel process, resulting in a durable, toxin-free surface.

Concerns and Lawsuits

Despite GreenPan's claims, there have been concerns and lawsuits regarding the safety and marketing of their products. Here are some key points to consider:

• Lack of Transparency: GreenPan has faced criticism for not disclosing the full list of ingredients in their Thermolon™ coating. This makes it challenging to assess the safety of the coating comprehensively.
• Lawsuits and Misrepresentation: In 2019, a class-action lawsuit was filed against GreenPan, alleging that their ceramic non-stick coating contained known toxins, including silane, aluminum oxide, tetraethoxysilane, methyltrimethoxysilane, and potassium titanate. The lawsuit claimed that GreenPan engaged in false advertising by promoting their products as "completely toxin-free." While the lawsuit was eventually dismissed, it raised questions about the accuracy of GreenPan's marketing claims.
• Testing and Third-Party Verification: GreenPan previously provided test reports for their products but stopped disclosing them after 2020. This lack of transparency makes it challenging to verify the safety of their coatings independently.
• Coating Durability and Performance: Some users have reported issues with the durability of GreenPan's non-stick coating, noting that it starts to stick or chip over time. Others have mentioned an unpleasant odor emitted from the coating during cooking.

Based on the available information, it is challenging to provide a definitive answer regarding the safety of GreenPan's Thermolon™ coating. On the one hand, GreenPan's products are manufactured in their own factories, and they claim to conduct annual testing to ensure compliance with food contact regulations. Their coatings are free of PFOA and PFAS, which are known to be harmful.

On the other hand, the lack of transparency about the full list of ingredients and the absence of recent third-party test reports make it difficult to verify the safety of the coating comprehensively. The lawsuits and user experiences highlighting coating issues also raise concerns.

Ultimately, the decision to use GreenPan products is a personal one. If you choose to use GreenPan, it is essential to follow their care and usage instructions carefully to prolong the life of the coating and minimize any potential risks.

What are GreenPan products made of?

GreenPan products are made of a variety of materials, including hard anodized aluminum and 3-ply stainless steel. The coating used is Thermolon, which is a ceramic non-stick coating. Thermolon is made from sand-derived raw materials, specifically Silicon Dioxide (SiO2), which is turned into a solution and sprayed onto the pan. The coating is then cured in an oven at a low temperature, using 60% less energy than conventional non-stick pans.

Thermolon is free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium, and can withstand temperatures up to 850°F/450°C without releasing toxic fumes. The coating is also scratch-resistant and tough enough to be used with metal utensils, although the use of nylon, bamboo, silicone, and wood utensils is recommended to preserve the coating.

GreenPan products are manufactured in the company's own factories in Italy and China, and the company has won awards for its environmental safety, worker satisfaction, and overall standards. The factory generates 30% of its power from solar panels and has its own wastewater treatment plant.

Where are GreenPan products made?

GreenPan products are manufactured in factories owned by the company in Italy and China, with one source specifying that the factory in China is located outside of Hong Kong. The company asserts that it carefully controls the manufacturing process and has won numerous awards for its environmental safety, worker satisfaction, and overall standards.

The factory in China generates 30% of its power from solar panels on the roof and treats its wastewater in an on-site wastewater treatment plant. The factory is also home to an in-house research and development team that works towards advancements in healthier and better cooking.

How should I care for my GreenPan cookware?

To care for your GreenPan cookware, it is recommended to use low to medium heat settings, as the Thermolon™ coating distributes heat more effectively than traditional coatings. Using silicone or wooden utensils is also advised, as these are gentler on the pan and will help the coating last longer.

When it comes to cleaning, GreenPan pans are easy to wash with a soft sponge and some warm, soapy water. They are also dishwasher-safe, but it is recommended to hand wash to help the coating last longer. Avoid abrasive detergents, steel wool, or iron sponges. Always allow your cookware to cool before washing, as plunging a hot pan into cold water can cause thermal shock, which may warp the pans and shatter glass lids.

Additionally, scratches, dents, or pits in the coating will not affect the safety or performance of your pan. However, if you wish to deep clean your pan, fill it halfway with water and bring it to a near-boil for about two minutes. Then, pour out the water and place the pan on a sturdy surface, such as a wooden cutting board. Carefully use a restoring sponge (melamine) on the warm surface. For the exterior, mix baking soda and a little water to form a smooth paste, and use kitchen paper to rub the paste over the stained area.

Furthermore, it is recommended to use oil or butter when cooking, as it helps distribute heat. High-smoke-point oils are ideal for high-heat cooking, and oils in spray form should be avoided, as they can create a layer of carbonization on the pan.

Finally, GreenPan recommends storing your cookware safely with pan protectors, which are cushy pads that keep your cookware from getting damaged in your cabinets.

Frequently asked questions