Teflon has been around since the 1940s, and gained popularity in the 1950s. From non-stick frying pans, saucepans and non-stick wok, to non-stick cooking utensils, Teflon has made life easier for so many people. While Teflon has been known as a low-maintenance and easy-to-clean option, it has also been associated with specific health risks.
Especially in the last 2 decades, a lot of studies and research has been conducted to show that Teflon might be harmful for both physical and mental health. With these studies and research, there are growing concerns about Teflon’s integrity and people are starting to question whether Teflon is truly safe to use. If you are one of those people and want to make sure whether your Teflon cookware is safe to use or not, read one because we’re going to explore exactly that!
What is Teflon?
Teflon is a household name for a chemical compound known as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). It belongs to the family of PFAS and was first developed in the 1930s. At that time, it was used in industrial applications for its heat resistance and non-reactive properties. But, in the 1950s, Teflon was beginning to be used in non-stick cookware to create a smooth, frictionless surface on top of pots and pans. This coating prevents food from sticking to the surface and makes cleaning easy.
While these benefits made Teflon a popular choice for cookware, questions have been raised about its safety, particularly when heated to high temperatures.
Understanding Teflon and Nonstick Coatings
Teflon is just one type of nonstick coating, and there are many more non-stick coatings in the market. All non-stick coatings, including Teflon, are designed to resist oil and food, so they don’t stick to the pan during and after cooking.
Teflon, specifically, is made from PTFE. But there are other non-stick coatings like ceramic or silicone-based coatings, which claim to function the same as Teflon but without using harmful chemicals like PFAS (the family of chemicals to which PTFE belongs).
Health Concerns Associated with Teflon
Teflon Is Toxic
One of the biggest concerns about Teflon is its chances of releasing toxic substances when heated. While Teflon itself is stable and safe at lower temperatures, it can begin to break down when it is heated above 260°C, or when it gets scratched. The chemical, PFOA, which is used for the production of Teflon has also been proven, through studies, to cause various health risks, including certain types of cancer and thyroid disorders.
Polymer Fume Fever
When Teflon overheats, it releases toxic fumes that can cause flu-like symptoms, which is also referred to as "polymer fume fever" or sometimes “Teflon fever”. These fumes are released when Teflon is heated to and over 260°C. At this temperature, Teflon starts to break down and release toxic fumes in the air. These fumes can be really dangerous for you if you inhale them over an extended time.
Myth vs. Reality of Teflon
Myth: All Non-stick Is Made From Teflon
That is a very commonly misunderstood thing about non-stick cookware. When people think of non-stick, they, by default, think of Teflon.
Reality: Different Materials Are Used For Non-stick
The fact is, not all non-stick is made from Teflon. Teflon is a specific substance called PTFE, which uses PFOA during the manufacturing process. Both of these are from the PFAS family of chemicals. There are many different materials which are used to create non-stick surfaces on cookware. Materials like silicon and ceramic are also used to create non-stick coating on cookware.
Myth: All Non-Stick Cookware Is Harmful
In the past, studies have shown that during the production of Teflon, the chemical PFOA is used. That specific chemical makes Teflon toxic and so, all Teflon-coated cookware is harmful.
Reality: Some Non-Stick Coatings are Safe
By 2013, PFOA was almost entirely opted out from the production of non-stick cookware. Although some brands still use the traditional method of creating non-stick coatings, most of the quality brands have shifted to using other non-stick coatings like ceramic and silicone. Blu. has also worked with certified chefs, for about 7 years, to create 100% PFAS free, toxin-free non-stick cookware that is completely safe to be used for all types of cooking.
Safer Alternatives to Teflon Cookware
Here are some safe alternatives to Teflon cookware:
Conclusion: Why Do We Worry About Chemicals in Cookware?
With so much information about the potential dangers of chemicals in cookware, it’s understandable that people are more cautious today than ever before. Chemicals like PTFE and PFOA, which are conventionally used in creating non-stick coatings, have been linked to health risks when used improperly or when exposed to high heat.
These chemicals could potentially harm our health and the environment. Because these chemicals can release toxic fumes and leach into our food, it is important to understand what materials your cookware is made of and how to use them safely.
FAQs about Teflon Cookware Safety Concerns
Is Teflon toxic when heated?
Teflon is safe at normal cooking temperatures, but it can become toxic if overheated above 260°C (500°F). At this temperature, it starts to break down and release fumes that can cause flu-like symptoms, known as Polymer Fume Fever.
Are there any long-term health effects associated with using Teflon cookware?
Older Teflon products made before 2013 contained PFOA, which has been linked to health risks. But modern Teflon cookware no longer contains this chemical. When used correctly at moderate temperatures, it can be safe to use. But if your Teflon cookware is damaged or scratched, it's best to replace it.
What are the safest alternatives to Teflon pans?
Ceramic-coated cookware, cast iron, stainless steel, and carbon steel are good alternatives to Teflon pans. These options do not contain PFAS chemicals and are safe, and non-toxic when used properly.
How should I dispose of old Teflon cookware?
If you want to dispose of your old Teflon cookware, check with your local recycling facility to see if they accept non-stick cookware. If recycling isn’t an option, you may need to dispose of it in regular waste.
