Non-stick pans and cookware, in general, are a great help in the kitchen. We especially look for them when frying eggs or making crepes, in which case a non-stick surface makes a big difference.
We love the convenience of non-stick pans, that’s for sure. However, the controversy surrounding the health impacts of non-stick cookware confuses many of us. Are non-stick pans unhealthy? Do I need to discard my non-stick pan after using a metal spatula in it? Should I season my non-stick pan regularly? These are some of the questions that frequently come to our minds.
The health concerns associated with non-stick cookware don’t seem to go away soon, so it is best to get informed. In this article, we listed 10 myths about non-stick pans. Continue reading to learn the facts about non-stick kitchenware technology.
- All non-stick coating is the same
Many people think non-stick coating is necessarily PTFE, or, in other words, Teflon. However, this’s not always the case. While the most common type of non-stick coating is PTFE, other non-stick coating materials such as ceramic, enamel, and anodized aluminum exist. Each of these coating materials has its own distinguishing features. So, it is best to search for alternatives suited to your specific cooking needs.
- Non-stick coatings are not durable
Non-stick cookware is believed to be short-lived. However, you can enjoy cooking in your non-stick pan for many years, if not decades. Several sturdy, non-stick cookware alternatives exist, especially with the advancements in kitchenware manufacturing technology. Sure, when you use abrasive cleaning products and metal cutlery for non-stick pans, you probably end up with a scratched and chipped surface. But with a bit of care, you can use a non-stick pan in its best shape and form for a very long time.
- Non-stick coatings contain PFOA
Discussions about the health effects of Teflon mainly center on Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA). Following research on the link between PFOA exposure and cancer risk, manufacturers began phasing out the use of PFOA in Teflon production around 2013. Today, the use of PFOA is banned in the USA and many other countries.
- Non-stick coatings cannot be used in the dishwasher
It’s time to debunk another myth about non-stick pans. Unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer, non-stick cookware, including pans, is dishwasher safe.
- Non-stick coated pans cannot be put in the oven or placed in the refrigerator
There is a belief that the surface of non-stick cookware is delicate, so you can’t use it in the oven or store it in the refrigerator. Neither is true. You can bake with non-stick cookware in the oven. Some non-stick pans have removable handles specifically for that use. You can also store food in non-stick cookware in the refrigerator.
- Non-stick coating is not safe
There is much debate about the health effects of using non-stick cookware. However, in addition to PFOA, many manufacturers don’t use cadmium and lead for coating. With the advancements in production technology, healthier options of non-stick coating are widely available and accessible.
- Non-stick coatings wear off easily
Today, it’s possible to choose from a wide variety of non-stick cookware with durable coatings. A good-quality non-stick pan’s surface will likely last long with the right use.
- Professional chefs do not use non-stick pans
A professional kitchen is where many cooking types simultaneously take place, and non-stick cookware has its uses. Many professional chefs and home cooks prefer to use non-stick pans for several culinary tasks.
- You can’t use non-stick pans on high heat
Non-stick pans do a great job distributing and retaining heat. Most non-stick cookware can withstand temperatures up to 500 F (260 C) without any damage to the surface. Temperatures around 500 F are enough for cooking many meals.
- Non-stick pans require high maintenance
On the contrary, non-stick pans require little maintenance. Aside from being dishwasher and refrigerator-safe, non-stick pans are light and easy to handle. Thanks to the non-stick surface, food doesn’t stick to the cookware, so cleaning it is a breeze. They also quickly dry. On top of everything, you do not need to season non-stick cookware. The low maintenance is actually part of the appeal of non-stick cookware.
These are the 10 common myths about non-stick coating. Now that you know more about specific features of the material, it is time to view existing non-stick cookware with a new perspective and maybe to plan to purchase something new. Either way, you can enjoy the convenience of non-stick pans and utilize their kitchen assistance for a long time.