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Do you know how safe your cookware is? It may not be as harmless as you think.
There is ongoing controversy about certain nonstick pans. Their coating can leach a chemical known as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) when exposed to high heat and if scratched. PFOA has been linked to cancer and birth defects.
Some non-stick cookware can also release PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), which can release toxic fumes known to create health problems for animals.
There’s another reason to avoid traditional nonstick: It doesn’t break down in our environment.
If nonstick is a must-have, you can find PFOA-free and PTFE-free cookware in many home-goods stores. Earth Pan, Starfrit and Green Pan are all good options. Avoid using metal utensils because they can scratch the cookware’s surfaces.
Safer cookware can be less expensive. For general cooking, cast iron is perfect. A cast iron skillet is durable, can enhance flavorsand will only set you back about $10.
Other safe bets: Stainless steel, ceramic and glass cookware, which can be made from recycled materials.
