Tiffany Haney
Non-stick pans are made using per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAs, which are heat, oil, stain, grease, and water-resistant. However, PFAs are toxic and can cause health issues such as cancer, thyroid and immune disorders.
To avoid the health risks associated with PFAs, you can opt for non-toxic cookware such as cast iron, stainless steel, carbon steel, ceramic, glass, and enamel-coated cast iron.
- Cast iron: Cast iron is durable, can last a lifetime, and is versatile. It can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, or even while camping. It is also indestructible and can withstand extreme temperature changes.
- Enamel-coated cast iron: This type of cookware combines the benefits of cast iron with a non-toxic glaze that requires less maintenance. It is also great for cooking acidic foods.
- Stainless steel: Stainless steel is durable, versatile, and non-reactive. It can handle high heat and is safe to use with metal utensils.
- Lead-free ceramic: Ceramic cookware is non-stick and safe to use. However, it can be fragile and expensive.
- Glass: Glass cookware is considered one of the safest options as it does not leach any chemicals into food. However, it cannot be used on stovetops.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Cast iron, stainless steel, carbon steel, ceramic, glass, enamel-coated cast iron |
| Pros | Durable, versatile, non-reactive, non-toxic, safe, easy to clean, long-lasting, affordable, lightweight, good heat retention, good heat conduction, non-stick, oven-safe, metal utensil safe, dishwasher-safe, induction-compatible |
| Cons | Heavy, prone to staining, prone to warping, difficult to clean, not dishwasher-safe, not induction-compatible, not oven-safe, not metal utensil safe, not suitable for high heat, not suitable for low heat, not suitable for acidic foods, prone to rusting, prone to chipping, prone to scratching, fragile, expensive |
What You'll Learn
Cast iron
Maintenance
Performance
Health Concerns
Recommendations
When choosing a cast iron pan, look for options that come pre-seasoned, as this will save you some initial work. The Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is an excellent and affordable option that has consistently topped performance tests. For a lighter option, consider the Netherton Foundry spun iron frying pan, which offers the benefits of cast iron with a more manageable weight.
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Stainless steel
When choosing a stainless steel pan, look for one with a thick, multi-ply construction that includes an aluminium core for improved heat conduction. Handles should be comfortable and stay-cool, and rivetless designs are easier to clean. Some stainless steel pans can be on the heavier side, so consider your needs and preferences when selecting a pan.
- All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Everyday 10-Piece Cookware Set: This set includes a range of pots and pans of various sizes, offering versatility in the kitchen. The three layers of metal (stainless steel and aluminium) allow for faster heating and better heat retention. While this set is on the pricier side and requires hand washing, it is a durable and reliable option.
- Made-In 5-ply Stainless Steel Cookware: This set offers a good balance of heat retention and responsiveness, making it suitable for various cooking techniques. The hollow handles stay cool during use, and the rolled rims make pouring easy. Made-In cookware is used by professional chefs and is known for its superior quality.
- Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel Cookware: This budget-friendly set offers excellent heat distribution and retention, reducing hot spots. The lightweight design and stay-cool handles make it comfortable to use, and it is dishwasher-safe for convenient cleaning.
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Carbon steel
One of the standout features of carbon steel is its weight. It is lighter and easier to manoeuvre than cast iron, making it more user-friendly, especially for those who struggle with heavy cookware. Its lighter weight also makes it more responsive to changes in temperature, heating up and cooling down faster than cast iron. This responsiveness is ideal for precise cooking and achieving perfect results.
Some popular carbon steel cookware options include the Made In Blue Carbon Steel Frying Pan, Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan, and Lodge Seasoned Steel Skillet. These pans offer a combination of performance, ease of use, and value, providing a great cooking experience.
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Ceramic
GreenPan
GreenPan was the first company to invent non-stick ceramic cookware in 2007 and their products are PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium-free. Their latest line, GP5, features their most advanced ceramic non-stick coating, which is infused with diamonds for extra durability. The hard anodization makes it non-reactive and scratch-resistant. GreenPan offers a variety of cookware sets, including their GP5 collection, Reserve collection, and Valencia Pro collection.
Caraway
Caraway offers ceramic-coated non-stick cookware sets in various colours. Their products are made with an aluminium core for excellent heat retention and conduction. The ceramic coating is made from silicon dioxide or silica and is PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium-free. Caraway offers a 12-piece set, a Minis Duo set, and single pots and pans.
Xtrema
Xtrema offers pure ceramic cookware, which is made from clay, water, natural minerals, and oxides. Their products are PFAS and PFOA-free, FDA-approved, and meet California Prop 65 standards. Xtrema's cookware can go from the stovetop to the oven and is even microwave-safe. They offer a Signature Skillet line and a Classic Oval Dutch Oven.
Other Options
Other options for ceramic non-stick pans include Sensarte, Blue Diamond Cookware, ESLITE LIFE, Rockurwok, Ninja, OXO, and Gotham Steel. These brands offer a range of ceramic non-stick pans, some of which are dishwasher-safe and oven-safe.
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Glass
One of the benefits of glass cookware is its even heat distribution. Glass is an excellent heat conductor, ensuring that your food cooks evenly and efficiently. It also has superior heat retention, so your food stays warm for longer. However, it's important to note that glass can be fragile and requires careful handling and cleaning. It's also important to preheat glass cookware slowly on low to medium heat to prevent uneven cooking and food from sticking.
When it comes to choosing a glass cookware set, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, look for a set that includes a variety of pot and pan sizes to suit your cooking needs. Second, ensure that the glass is oven-safe and microwave-safe if you plan on using it for more than just stovetop cooking. Finally, opt for a reputable brand that is transparent about its safety practices and testing procedures.
Overall, glass cookware is an excellent option for those seeking a healthy and safe non-stick alternative. While it may require a bit more care and attention than other materials, it offers even heating, superior heat retention, and peace of mind when it comes to potential chemical exposure. So, if you're looking for a non-stick pan that's truly healthy, glass is a great choice.
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Frequently asked questions
Non-stick pans are coated with a chemical called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), also known as Teflon. Non-toxic pans do not have this coating and are made from materials such as cast iron, stainless steel, carbon steel, and ceramic.
Non-toxic pans are safer for your health as they do not contain PTFE, which can be harmful if the pan is overheated. Non-toxic pans are also more durable and can last a lifetime if cared for properly.
Non-toxic pans may require more skill and effort to maintain a non-stick surface compared to traditional non-stick pans. They may also be more expensive upfront but can save you money in the long run as you won't need to replace them as often.
Some popular non-toxic pan brands include Lodge, Caraway, GreenPan, Xtrema, and Staub.
Each type of non-toxic pan requires different care. For example, cast iron pans need to be seasoned and dried thoroughly after washing, while stainless steel pans can be more low-maintenance. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific pan.
