We can do our best to protect our health with a well-balanced diet, but the ingredients in your food are only half of the story.
As it turns out, the ingredients in your pots and pans are making a big impact too.
The Most Common Toxins in Cookware
Teflon
Teflon is super popular for its non-stick properties, but what most people don’t know is that it’s one of the most toxic materials found in our cookware.
Teflon coating is actually made from a plastic polymer called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). When heated, it releases toxic fumes that are highly dangerous to people and pets. The side effects of these fumes are very similar to flu-like symptoms and the illness itself has been given the name “Teflon flu.”
The other major toxin of concern in Teflon products is perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). This carcinogenic chemical has been found to contribute to several types of cancer.
It is commonly asserted that the levels of PFOA in Teflon are too minimal to cause any harm. However, we have to take into account that this toxin is present in many other everyday products which can cause a build up over time.
We also have to remember that these types of assertions and belief systems change over time as long-term exposure to chemicals reveals new reasons for concern. This is exactly why we’ve discontinued the use of asbestos products and you can no longer smoke cigarettes indoors.
Aluminum
Because aluminum is so abundant and lightweight, it is a very popular option for cheap cookware.
However, aluminum is a known neurotoxin. Neurotoxins negatively affect the brain and nervous system, which can lead to neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Aluminum pans are usually coated to prevent leaching into your food, but these coatings are not very durable and tend to chip off. Plus, the coatings themselves tend to be made from toxic chemicals.
In addition to aluminum pans, aluminum foil should also be avoided. Try making your own reusable beeswax wraps to store food instead!
Copper
Copper has become popular for its promises of quick and even heating.
However, copper is a heavy metal that can build up in the brain and become poisonous over time. Copper pans also tend to be coated with nickel, which is also toxic.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is arguably a way better option than any of the previously mentioned products.
However, every pan is going to be different and many stainless steel pans have tested for high levels of nick and chromium. Leaching is even more of an area for concern when the pan is scratched or chipped.
Ceramic
Ceramic coated cookware is becoming very popular nowadays, but beneath the thin layer of coating is usually a standard aluminum pan.
Pots and pans that claim to be 100% ceramic can be purchased for a hefty price tag, but the clays used to make the ceramics can sometimes contain lead and other heavy metals.
There are some manufacturers that claim to sell lead free ceramic cookware, but these products have only passed the leach testing required by law and not XRF heavy metal testing. It is also important to consider that this leach testing occurs immediately after production and cannot speak to the potential for leakage over time with regular use.
Healthier Non-toxic Alternatives
Cast Iron
Real heirloom grade cast iron is undoubtedly the best non-toxic cookware option available. Although they are heavy, they are made to last several lifetimes when cared for properly.
They are also naturally non-stick!
Glass
Glass is usually a material reserved for baking, but some stovetop options are making their way to the market. Glass is not non-stick and must be monitored more closely while cooking, but it is much lighter than cast iron which some people appreciate.
Glass is also a great material for tupperwares and mixing bowls if you’re looking to avoid toxic chemical leaching from plastic as well.