Best Non-Toxic Cookware For The Healthiest Meals in 2023

If you imagine heating up any type of material, you can get a good idea of whether or not you would want to cook food on it. There are some materials that release harmful chemicals and while these might be in small amounts, over time, this isn’t going to be healthy for you and your family. 


That said, manufacturers are now getting on board with using non-toxic materials for their cookware, giving you a much safer and more enjoyable experience in the kitchen. However, with this being a relatively new concept to a lot of domestic chefs, the idea is still shrouded in mystery. When choosing the best non-toxic cookware, many people are filled with questions and if this sounds like you, you’re in the right place.

We have put together the ultimate guide on non-toxic cookware. We’ll be giving you a rundown on the safest materials and why you should use them as well as looking at the features you’ll need to check for when choosing cookware. In addition, we have sourced some of the very best non-toxic pots and pans so you don’t have to spend hours trawling the net; everything is here in one convenient place! So, let’s get started!

What Is Non-Toxic Cookware Anyway?

The term non-toxic is thrown around a lot so when we are talking about cookware, it can feel a little uncertain as to what is truly non-toxic and what is merely masquerading as such. You see, the problem is that so many brands are now claiming that their cookware is non-toxic when in reality, it’s no better than those old lead and aluminium based pans that are so unhealthy it hurts. 

A truly non-toxic piece of cookware does not contain any harmful materials that may get into the food during the cooking process. In short, if you wouldn’t eat the materials that your cookware was made of for fear of health problems, then you won’t want to cook on them either.

The Best Non-Toxic Cookware

Later on in this guide, we will be going into detail on everything you need to know about non-toxic cookware. But let’s begin by introducing you to some of the very best products on the market. If you’re looking to replace your current cookware with something safer, this selection will allow you to create a whole new kitchen collection.

OUR TOP PICK

LE CREUSET Signature Enamelled Cast Iron Round Casserole Dish with Lid, 18 cm, 2.4 Litre, Matte...

If you are looking for an investment piece of cookware that truly will last a lifetime then we wouldn’t recommend anything more highly than this cast iron dish from one of the world’s most well-respected cookware brands. Le Creuset is considered to be kitchen royalty and while the pieces aren’t the most affordable, the performance and quality cannot be beaten and that is evident when you look at this cast iron dish. 

One of the most obvious things about cast iron is how durable it is. This casserole dish will stand the test of time and will be with you for many years. What’s more, the enamel coating (which is perfectly safe) provides you with a non-stick surface from which food just slides off. You’ll find that the dish is also super easy to clean thanks to this feature and it can be put into the dishwasher for convenience. 

The Le Creuset casserole dish comes in a choice of sizes and colours which is a nice touch and gives you a bit of variety in terms of your options. But what really caught our attention is how well this dish retains and distributes heat. For evenly cooked food every time, you won’t find anything more effective than this!

Pros

Cons

Heavy duty and durable

We couldn’t find anything wrong with this dish

Comes in a choice of sizes

Great heat retention

High quality

Can be used on all heat sources including induction

EDITORS CHOICE

Cuisinart French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless 4.5-Quart Dutch Oven with Cover

These amazing stainless pans from Cuisinart and come in a range of choices like dutch oven, stockpot, frypan and more. Throw in the fact that these stainless steel pans are non-toxic and have a range of other features worth getting excited about.

One of the greatest things about the Cuisinart pans is the handles which do not heat up when exposed to heat. You know how painful it can be when you grab a hot handle without realising; that’ll be a thing of the past with these. 

What’s more, being made from triple layered stainless steel, these pans offer excellent heat distribution and heat retention. They can be used on a variety of heat sources up to 500 degrees and can be used in the fridge or the freezer.  Of course, since they are metal, they aren’t microwave safe, but that’s certainly not a major downside. 

Pros

Cons

Can be used of different heat sources

Not microwave safe

Great heat distribution

Not non-stick

Comfortable and heat resistant handles

Dishwasher safe

Can be used on induction hobs

BEST FOR STIR FRYING

Iron Wok Pan with Detachable Wooden Handle, Traditional Chinese Frying Pan with Induction Base Hob,...

Who doesn’t love a healthy, crunchy, delicious vegetable stir fry? This dish is super easy to cook and quick to whip up at the end of a long day. However, the high heat required can quickly cause coated woks and pans to spread toxic chemicals into the food. That won’t be a problem with this pan as it features no coating at all. 

But that doesn’t mean that your food will stick, the carbon steel is, by nature, non-stick. What’s more, this wok is beautifully resistant to scratches even when you are using metal tools. This amazing durability means that you’ll have a pan for life, and it won’t break the bank either!

This is an extremely practical piece of cookware as well considering that the handle comes off for easier storage. What’s more, the N++A wok can be used on all types of hob and can be used on a campfire. If you’re looking for something that you can use outdoors, this is well worth considering. 

We loved the fact that this wok is so easy to clean. Since the food won’t ever stick, all you’ll need to do is wipe. However, owing to the nature of the material, it is prone to rust if you don’t dry it properly. 

Pros

Cons

Non-stick

May rust if not dried properly

Removable handle

Versatile

Comes with a spout for easy pouring of liquids and sauces

Heavy duty

BEST VALUE

Amazon Basics 5-Piece Non Stick Induction Cookware Set, Including Frying Pan, Saucepan and Casserole...

If you’re looking for something that isn’t going to break the bank and yet will still give you everything you’d need from a non-toxic cookware set, this Amazon Basics 5-piece set might be just what you have been crying out for. 

For less than £60, you are getting 2 frying pans and three saucepans with lids that are totally free from PFOAs and BPAs, giving you the confidence you need that quality doesn’t always have to hit your wallet hard. 

The variety of different sizes gives you excellent versatility in the kitchen and we think that this would make an excellent wedding gift or house warming present. They’re made from aluminium and are non-stick without the risk of chemicals. While it does feature a coating, this is made from titanium which is considered to be one of the best non-toxic materials for cookware out there.  What’s more, this material heats quickly and evenly as well as being lightweight. 

The pans can be used on all heat sources including induction and are super easy to clean. You can even pop them in the dishwasher when you’re done to save time and effort. If all of that wasn’t user friendly enough then you might consider the stay-cool handles that will prevent and nasty burns or scalds which are common with some other materials. 

Pros

Cons

Titanium non-stick coating

Some induction hobs don’t recognise the pans

PFOA and BPA free

Lightweight

Versatile and can be used on various heat sources

Handles don’t get hot when exposed to heat

BEST ECO-FRIENDLY OPTION

Prestige Eco Non Stick Frying Pan Set of 2 - Induction Frying Pans Set 20cm & 24cm with Plant Based...

There is a lot of focus on using sustainable products in modern times and rightly so. But did you know that you could get your hands on eco-friendly cookware that is kind to your food? These pans are plant-based and contain no PFOAs or BPAs making them non-toxic and safe for your kitchen. 

What’s more, the Prestige pans are incredibly resistant and durable. They won’t scratch easily and are super tough so can be seen as something of an investment. In addition to this, they are very easy to clean and can be put in the dishwasher. While they will last you many years, when you’re finished with them, the pans are fully recyclable. 

The pans are made from aluminium but they have a stainless steel base which offers sturdiness as well as incredibly even heating. The pans are 100% non-stick which makes cooking and cleaning so much simpler.

What’s really great about the Prestige pans is that you aren’t limited on choices. They come in sets of 2, 3 or 5 pans so whether you’re looking for just a couple of frying pans to update your kitchen or need an entire new set, they’ve got you covered. 

Pros

Cons

5 year warranty

Not suitable for all induction hobs

Eco-friendly

Heats evenly

Choice of sets

Non-stick

BEST GLASS COOKWARE

Visions Vs-337 Pot Kitchen Cookware Saucepan Heat-resistant Glass Cookpot Cooking Pot Pasta Pots 6p...

There is a lot of focus on using sustainable products in modern times and rightly so. But did you know that you could get your hands on eco-friendly cookware that is kind to your food? These pans are plant-based and contain no PFOAs or BPAs making them non-toxic and safe for your kitchen. 

What’s more, the Prestige pans are incredibly resistant and durable. They won’t scratch easily and are super tough so can be seen as something of an investment. In addition to this, they are very easy to clean and can be put in the dishwasher. While they will last you many years, when you’re finished with them, the pans are fully recyclable. 

The pans are made from aluminium but they have a stainless steel base which offers sturdiness as well as incredibly even heating. The pans are 100% non-stick which makes cooking and cleaning so much simpler.

What’s really great about the Prestige pans is that you aren’t limited on choices. They come in sets of 2, 3 or 5 pans so whether you’re looking for just a couple of frying pans to update your kitchen or need an entire new set, they’ve got you covered. 

Pros

Cons

5 year warranty

Not suitable for all induction hobs

Eco-friendly

Heats evenly

Choice of sets

Non-stick

BEST FOR A FRY UP!

Le Creuset Cast Iron Square Grillit with Handle Glove, 26 cm - Black

What’s great about this cast iron grillit from Le Creuset is that it is spacious enough to cook an entire breakfast, meaning that you aren’t left with a mass clean up operation at the end of cooking. The pan is super durable thanks to its cast iron construction and gives you an effective non-stick cooking surface that won’t mark easily. 

The grillit will resist heat very well and is suitable for cooking on a variety of surfaces. It’s also one of the safest pans to use on this list as it comes with a protective sleeve for the handle so there’s no risk of you getting burned!.

What’s more, the pan holds heat excellently, even after you remove it from the heat source. This allows you to keep food warm if you aren’t quite ready to eat. Heat is also very well distributed so you’ll get evenly cooked food with minimal effort. 

Pros

Cons

Comes with protective handle cover

Expensive

Large size

Durable and heat resistant

Can be used on all cooking surfaces

Excellent heat retention

BEST CERAMIC COOKWARE

GreenPan Saucepan, Non Stick, Toxin Free Ceramic Sauce Pot - Induction & Oven Safe Cookware - 20...

Ceramic cookware is known for its ability to prevent food sticking and this is a major selling point of this saucepan. While the ceramic is coated it is 100% non-toxic and free from PFAS. No matter what temperatures you expose it to, nothing will be released into your food. 

This is a smaller saucepan so is perfect for everyday cooking needs and those cooking for fewer people. However, the brand does offer a range of other pieces of cookware allowing you to build an entire collection. What’s more, it won’t break the bank. 

The Greenpan saucepan is incredibly durable and uses a patented base that is resistant to scratches, warping and other types of damage. This also means that the pan will remain stable and wobble-free over time. 

Pros

Cons

Great durability

Small

Stable

Can be used on all cooking surfaces

Oven safe up to 180 degrees

Stylish design

BEST FOR COOKING ON THE GO

iBasingo Titanium Pot Pan Set Small Camping Cookware Outdoor Ultralight Kitchen Bowl Dish Cup 500ml...

Cooking doesn’t always take place in the kitchen and if you are looking for travel cookware, it is just as important to ensure non-toxic materials. Not only do these titanium pots meet that expectation but they are also lightweight and compact making them perfect for camping, hiking and even cooking in the garden!

The handles fold in for storage and are easy to pull out to turn the pot into a pan for cooking stir frys, noodles, meat and more. They’ll also double as a bowl to eat from limiting the amount of equipment you have to take with you. 

Titanium is an exceptionally durable material that is also incredibly resistant to heat. What’s more, the iBasingo cooking pots offer amazing heat distribution so just because you are outdoors, it doesn’t mean that you can’t achieve even cooking results. 

What we really love about these pots is that they are resistant to bacteria and beautifully easy to clean which is essential when you’re on the go. Moreover, they’ll stack into one another and come with a handy travel bag to keep them clean and safe when you’re on the move.

Pros

Cons

Lightweight and compact

Not suitable for home cooking

Great for on the go

Heat resistant

Great heat distribution

Doubles as a bowl

You might also be interested in our article about Eco-friendly table wear

What Is Non-Toxic Cookware Anyway?

The term non-toxic is thrown around a lot so when we are talking about cookware, it can feel a little uncertain as to what is truly non-toxic and what is merely masquerading as such. You see, the problem is that so many brands are now claiming that their cookware is non-toxic when in reality, it’s no better than those old lead and aluminium based pans that are so unhealthy it hurts. 

A truly non-toxic piece of cookware does not contain any harmful materials that may get into the food during the cooking process. In short, if you wouldn’t eat the materials that your cookware was made of for fear of health problems, then you won’t want to cook on them either. 

Why Should I Use Non-Toxic Cookware? - The Benefits

You might be wondering why you should make the switch from your regular cookware to non-toxic alternative. The words ‘non-toxic’ in themselves should be more than an incentive but if you needed a little more convincing then there are a lot of benefits in making the change. 

Health

For many years, things like Teflon have been considered safe to use for cookware. In fact, this is probably one of the most sought after materials when choosing cookware but what if we told you that it isn’t as safe as you may have thought?

In reality, these types of cookware feature a non-stick coating which is added during the manufacturing process. Of course, this does have its benefits in that your food won’t stick to the pan and cleaning up becomes far less of a headache. But a headache may be the least of your worries if it’s safety that is concerning you. 

This coating, while effective in some ways, will gradually come away. Every time you cook in your pan, small amounts of the coating are released into the food; and then you put this food into your body. OK, eating one meal with trace amounts of pan coating isn’t going to do you much harm but when you use this cookware to prepare most of your meals, it’s not difficult to see why it would become a problem. 

It may come as a startling surprise that over-exposure to materials like Teflon could result in an array of devastating health conditions. There has been evidence to suggest that the material could be linked to certain types of cancer particularly testicular cancer and that of the pancreas and liver, as reported by The Guardian.

Moreover, there have been many studies completed regarding the effects of Teflon on fertility and the results are more than disconcerting. For example, one study demonstrated that infertility in women exposed to Teflon rose by half! In a world where reproductive health problems are becoming more of an issue, it would make sense to question whether the things we use in our everyday lives are impacting this. 

It’s Good For The Environment

You cannot go anywhere or watch anything on TV without hearing something about the impact that mankind is having on the environment. There has never been a more prominent focus on taking care of the planet and ensuring its sustainability for our future generations. 

Now, you’ve probably been told that if everyone does just a small amount, the positive impact on a global scale could be astronomical. Yes, you’ve probably been turning off light switches, doing your recycling and walking when you don’t really need to take the car but changing the type of cookware you use could also positively impact the environment. 

Simply put, these non-toxic cookware items are, more often than not, made from recyclable materials. Once you’re done with them, they can quite easily be repurposed or recycled which is more than one could say for many other types of cookware. 

Of course, you should also take into account that, thanks to the lack of toxic chemicals and materials, they aren’t going to have a direct negative impact on the planet. So, if you’re eco-conscious, there has never been a better time to make the switch. 

What Are The Safest Non-Toxic Materials

One of the most important considerations when choosing cookware that is non-toxic is to look at the type of materials used in the manufacturing of the product. You will want to avoid anything that has any type of man-made coating so aiming for more natural products is a great place to start. But we will look at these coatings in more detail later on. 

Cast Iron

When you think about a sizzling pan, you’ll often picture a cast iron one and there is a good reason for this. This type of cookware is excellent when you are cooking at high temperatures and it retains heat better than almost anything else.

In addition to this, you will notice that cast iron pots and pans are incredibly versatile. They can be used for everything from baking to sauteing and everything in between. The only real downside is that, being metal, they aren’t microwave safe. What’s more, that amazing heat retention means you’ll always get a lovely crispy result. Just be careful when handling the pots and pans, as they’ll remain hot long after you’ve finished cooking. 

If you are looking for durable cookware then you are unlikely to find anything quite as effective as cast iron. Not only is this an incredibly strong, robust material but a high-quality piece of cast iron cookware will last a lifetime, when properly taken care of. That said, these are very heavy pieces of kitchenware.

What’s more, cast iron often requires seasoning and once it has undergone this process, it is incredibly unlikely that anything will stick to the pan. Seasoning involves baking on a layer of fat or oil which acts as a protective barrier that reduces sticking. This is great for your food but also excellent when it comes to cleaning up time!

There are some cast iron pans that need to be seasoned before their first use although a lot do now come pre-seasoned, so you can just start cooking as soon as you get your pan home. However, if you do need to season, it isn’t difficult and requires a quick clean of the pan before applying an even layer of oil. You will then simply need to bake the cookware between 200 - 230ºc for 60 minutes. 

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is excellent in that it is very lightweight and yet super durable. This is an iron alloy made from nickel and cadmium and the material is widely used in a huge number of applications. You will find stainless steel in almost anything that is suitable for outdoor use, so, if you’re looking for non-toxic cookware to take on a camping trip, this is a great choice. It won’t rust or corrode and will stand up to a lot of challenges. 

What’s more, stainless steel is incredibly affordable. Many people are keen to switch to non-toxic cookware but are worried about the cost. If you’re on a budget but still want to reap the benefits, stainless steel is definitely the way to go! It’s great for daily use and incredibly safe. Once removed from the heat, it’ll cool down quickly so the chance of accidental burns is massively reduced. 

The major downside of stainless steel is that it doesn’t conduct heat very well, which is kind of disappointing when you’re trying to cook! But never fear, manufacturers have addressed this problem by adding in other elements such as copper which serve to better distribute heat.

You should also keep in mind that stainless steel does not have the same non-stick properties as many other options so cleaning can be a little trickier. That said, most products are dishwasher safe so this isn’t as much of a drawback as you might first think. And of course, without those chemical non-stick coatings, you can feel confident that cooking in stainless steel pots and pans won’t cause you any health issues. 

Ceramic Coated

Ceramic coated cookware has one amazing property that sets it apart from other options like stainless steel; it’s non-stick by nature. Now, the clue is in the name here ‘ceramic coated’ so we know what you’re thinking; coating is never good, right? Well, in the case of ceramic coated cookware, the key difference is that chemical coatings aren’t used so it’s much safer. Instead, you start with an aluminium base which is then coated in ceramic. If you are going to buy this type of cookware, you should look out for those advertised as ‘PFOA and PTFE-free.’

Being non-stick means that cleaning your cookware becomes far easier and if you’re really in a pinch for time, you can even put them in the dishwasher. This type of cookware is pretty durable and will withstand a good degree of heat making it versatile enough for baking and stove-top cooking. This is excellent news if you are looking for something for everyday use. 

But the major selling point of ceramic coated cookware is that it is dual-benefit. The aluminium in the core means that the cookware will heat up much more quickly but the ceramic coating gives it that non-stick property. And let’s not forget that there isn’t a chemical in sight, so you’re completely safe.

While not as cheap as some other types of cookware like stainless steel, ceramic coated pots and pans won’t break the bank. They’re what you might class as middle of the road in terms of price and we have to point out once again that their durability means they will last many years. 

Solid Ceramic

You have to be very careful when purchasing solid ceramic cookware as that isn’t always what you will get. Yes, there are solid ceramics out there but they are much more difficult to come by and you’ll have to do some digging to ensure you are getting something completely pure. The problem is that a lot of manufacturers will incorporate things like lead and cadmium into the mix which takes away from the safety of the cookware.

The great thing about ceramic is that it is a completely natural and organic material. If you’re keen to use something from nature then this is an amazing choice. What’s even better is that, while it is perhaps a little more delicate than other options, it does offer excellent versatility and can be used for a plethora of cooking tasks. 

In terms of heat retention, solid ceramic performs very well. It will hold heat without much of an issue at all but it’s also amazing at handling much higher temperatures. When you think about how it is produced, in a kiln, it isn’t difficult to see why it has this kind of resilience. 

You can use it in the microwave, as well as using it to freeze leftover foods. What’s more, solid ceramic can be cleaned in the dishwasher and has a very resistant surface that won’t easily scratch or scuff. Provided you don’t drop it, you’ve got cookware that will last a lifetime. We should, however, point out that this is one of the more expensive types of non-toxic cookware, largely because there aren’t many genuine products so it should be seen as more of an investment. 

Porcelain Enamel

If you like the idea of cast iron cookware but want something even more resistant and robust then you might opt for porcelain enamel. Iron is known to rust over time, this is a natural process that cannot be avoided. Of course, taking good care of your pots and pans and not exposing them to excess moisture will somewhat delay the process, but overall, it’s inevitable. 

But porcelain enamel takes the durability of cast iron and uses an enamel ceramic coating to provide rust protection. Moreover, this coating means that you are getting a natural non-stick design that contains no harmful chemicals. Pretty clever, right? Well, yes, but you must be prepared to invest a decent amount of money if you want to enjoy the benefits of this type of cookware.

While it is very durable, it will scratch easy, so we would advise against using metal utensils. Not only will the appearance of the pan be affected but the non-stick coating will be removed. 

If you are looking for something that is as good for the environment as it is for cooking then porcelain enamel is a great choice. Because this type of cookware can resist very high heat and will hold heat very well, you don’t need to use as much power when cooking, meaning that you’ll save energy; saving fuel and money on your energy bills. It’s a win-win!

Of course, this excellent heat retention also means that porcelain enamel cookware can be used for various cooking methods both in the oven and on the hob. When you’re done, it’s super easy to clean and can be put into the dishwasher. 

Carbon Steel

We are seeing more and more carbon steel products in a range of areas from sports equipment to wheelchairs, cookware and everything in between. In terms of pots and pans, carbon steel offers amazing durability owing to the fact that it is made from 99% iron with a dash of carbon for good measure.

This type of cookware is not only incredibly robust but it is also ideal for cooking with higher temperatures. That means great versatility so whatever you’re cooking, your carbon steel pots and pans will have you covered. If you’re after something for everyday needs, this is definitely worth considering. While cast iron pans will offer a very similar performance, there is a clear difference that makes carbon steel much more appealing to many chefs; weight!

Carbon steel cookware is far less heavy than its cast iron cousins and yet doesn’t compromise on heat retention, durability or versatility. If you want something that is easy to handle, this is a great cast iron alternative. As well as this, carbon steel pans often come pre-seasoned so you are still getting the benefit of something that is non-stick. All of this, and it’s much more wallter-friendly than cast iron. 

Now, you will need to be prepared to take good care of your carbon steel cookware as it is more susceptible to corrosion and rust. 

Glass

One of the biggest benefits of glass cookware is that it is very easy to clean. It can be cleaned in the dishwasher and doesn’t tend to get quite as messy as other materials. It is very resistant to stains and so will remain looking much nicer for longer and provided it isn’t dropped, it will stand the test of time. 

As well as being more hygienic than other options, one of the great things about glass pots, pans and baking dishes is that you get an all-round view of the food. Imagine baking a pie in a cast iron dish; yes you’d have that excellent heat retention but you wouldn’t notice if the bottom of the food was beginning to burn. With glass, you get a 360º view so it becomes much easier to monitor the cooking process.

Glass is also a very versatile type of cookware that can be used in the oven, on the stovetop (electric only) and in the microwave so you aren’t limited on how you prepare your meals. It’s also ideal for taking straight from the oven to the table and doubles as a serving method.

Overall, glass is one of the best non-toxic cookware options but we should point out that you need to be careful when exposing it to temperature extremes. For example, if the glass dish comes out of the oven and doesn’t cool down before you put it into the fridge, this could cause the material to crack. What’s more, while there are some affordable options out there, if you want a high quality piece of glass cookware, you

Titanium

For the ultimate in safety, you should consider using titanium cookware. In the event that the metal does react with the food and you ingest a small amount, it’ll do you no harm whatsoever. You’ll notice that this type of metal is often used in the medical profession because of how safe it is. But this isn’t the only reason that titanium is a firm favourite of many chefs. 

This is an extremely lightweight material that is beautifully easy to handle. But this doesn’t come at the sacrifice of durability. You’re still getting something that is highly resistant to rust, scratches and general wear and tear. What’s more, it won’t cost the earth.

And it doesn’t end there, titanium cookware is great if you are looking for something non-stick. The materials will not affect the taste of your food and can be used in a variety of ways. However, you should keep in mind that this material is not microwave safe but it can be cleaned in the dishwasher for greater convenience.

What Materials Should I Avoid?

While the above materials are excellent for preventing any nasties from getting into your food, there are some materials that you should absolutely steer clear of.

GenX

No, we aren’t talking about the folk born in the late sixties and early seventies; in terms of cookware, GenX refers to a specific type of non-stick pan that is masquerading as being non-toxic. But don’t be fooled, they may not be as safe as you have been led to believe. 

In the first instance, GenX came after an enforced removal of PFAs back in 2010. It is marketed as being a much better option than PFOA and more sustainable. However, this doesn’t appear to be the case. Research into GenX has been completed and the effects of it on animals were incredibly shocking. Problems with the liver, pancreas, blood and testicles were all noted, including cancer in these areas. 

Teflon or PTFE

Teflon is probably one of the most well-known non-stick materials in the world of cookware and many people use it without realising the potential risks. The correct name for this product is polytetrafluoroethylene and it was first developed back in the late 1930s. 

Now, we won’t deny that the non-stick properties of Teflon are second to none and up to a certain temperature, there isn’t an issue. However, once Teflon reaches 240ºc, it starts to deteriorate. This is a temperature that people often cook at so it isn’t hard to see why this is a problem. Moreover, add another hundred or so degrees onto that, and the Teflon starts releasing toxic chemicals that will end up in your food.

Uncoated Aluminium

There are many non-toxic cookware products out there that are made from aluminium but these are coated in another material like titanium which is what makes the cookware safe. However, aluminium that has not been coated could be very risky. 

The problem is that aluminium will react with acid, which can be found in foods like tomatoes, lemons, vinegar and so on. When this happens, small amounts of aluminium will leach into your food and then you eat it! The good news is that there aren’t too many health risks to this but there are risks to your cookware and the taste and quality of the food. 

However, so many people use aluminium cookware thanks to the fact that it is so lightweight and affordable. 

PFOA

PFOA is similar to Teflon in many ways and while incredibly effective when it comes to making pans non-stick, the health risks are outrageous. For example, there have been links with certain types of cancer and exposure to PFOA.

In addition to this, there has been research that demonstrated many other health related problems to those exposed to PFOA including lower birth weights, problems with the immune system and thyroid problems. 

Things To Look For And What To Avoid When Choosing Non-Toxic Cookware

Knowing the best type of material for your new non-toxic cookware is one thing but there are a plethora of other things to think about before you make a choice. This might sound intimidating and we won’t lie, there is quite a bit to get your head around but it’s worth doing. Once you are familiar with the jargon used in the cookware industry, you’ll be able to confidently pick out pots and pans that are safe to use and will stand the test of time. 

Non-Stick Or Not To Non-Stick

Most of us would agree that non-stick cookware is by far the better option. This type of cookware means that the food will not stick to the pan and so can often be cooked without oil. If you’re looking to cut back on calories and fat in your diet, this is excellent news. What’s more, using a non-stick pan means that cleaning up is far easier because who wants to spend hours scrubbing after dinner?

You will notice that some of the non-toxic cookware options we have looked at are non-stick whereas others are not. If you want to ensure healthy food without the risk of exposure to toxins but don’t want it to stick then you might consider going for something like cast iron, ceramic coated or titanium.

Then again, you might not need a non-stick material depending on what you are cooking. If you’re looking for a pot to boil veggies, for example, then a non-stick feature won’t really be necessary. 

It’s Getting Hot In Here

The type of non-toxic cookware that you go for will also depend on how hot things are going to get in the kitchen. There are some types of cookware that are much more easily able to withstand intense heat and these are ideal for recipes that call for these temperatures. If you do need something that will stand up to the heat then you are better to choose materials like cast iron, stainless steel and porcelain enamel. 

It is also important to think about how evenly distributed the heat will be as the last thing you want is for your food to be unevenly cooked. The materials we have mentioned above are also among some of the best for ensuring even heat distribution across the whole pot. 

Clean Up On Aisle Three

We have already discussed that a non-stick pan will give you a much easier time when it comes to cleaning up but you might also consider purchasing cookware that is dishwasher safe. 

There are some types of non-toxic cookware that should never be cleaned in the dishwasher because they will become damaged. However, things like stainless steel, titanium and ceramic coated pots and pans will be perfectly safe and you don’t have to worry about putting in any elbow grease. 

Breaking Up Is Hard To Do

If you’ve invested a considerable amount of money in your new cookware then the last thing you are going to want is it breaking after one use. Fortunately, most types of non-toxic cookware come with impressive durability, but there are those that are more robust than others. 

Any type of non-toxic cookware that is made from metal will stand up to far many more challenges than other materials. You could drop a cast iron pan onto the tiled kitchen floor and it’d be the floor that came out worse off!

However, if you were to drop a solid ceramic or glass dish onto the tiles, you’ll be finding yourself reaching into your wallet for a replacement. If you tend to be a bit of a butter fingers, we would suggest avoiding these materials. 

In any case, you want to make sure that you are getting the best value for money and a long lasting piece of cookware is always going to be the best option. We have already discussed the durability of cast iron but what’s great is that it isn’t the most expensive option out there either. You might also consider opting for carbon steel as this offers excellent durability without breaking the bank. 

Other Things To Think About

The above points are some of the most important when it comes to choosing suitable non-toxic cookware for your needs. However, if you want to make definitely sure that you’re getting the right thing then you might also think about the following:

  • Be sure to choose cookware that is suitable for use on the cooking surfaces you use most often. For example, you can’t use a glass pot on a gas stove but these are ideal for use in the oven. You might also think about whether the cookware needs to be microwave safe as many people like to reheat food in these vessels. Anything metallic is not suitable for microwave use.

  • You should also think about the type of food that you cook. Things that contain a lot of acid won’t work well with materials like cast iron so you should opt for something else if you’re going to be making meals that contain acidic foods. 

  • Some types of non-stick cookware will be easily scratched when using things like metal utensils. If you own a lot of these then you might want to stay away from such materials and opt for things like glass or porcelain enamel.

Building The Perfect Non-Toxic Cookware Collection

You must always take your budget into account when choosing non-toxic cookware as there are some very affordable options as well as those that are a little more expensive. You will also want to consider whether you want investment pieces that will last a lifetime or whether you simply want to choose those that can be replaced from time to time. 

But one thing that a lot of people forget to take into consideration is that buying a set of non-toxic cookware probably isn’t the best way to go. You see, while you will probably get more individual pieces for your money, they are generally going to be made all from the same material. 

If you want versatility in your kitchen then it is far better to buy separate pieces that allow you to cook a whole host of different foods. You might invest in a cast iron baking tray for pizza, a glass dish for pies and lasagnas and stainless pans for boiling vegetables and so on. 

Conclusion

Many people concern themselves with eating a healthy and balanced diet but they are failing to cook their meals in appropriate cookware. Some materials will react with heat and release toxic chemicals into the food, affecting the flavour and more importantly, your health. 

In order to avoid this, we recommend using non-toxic cookware such as that made from things like cast iron, titanium and ceramic, amongst other things. If you’re not sure where to start, our comprehensive guide tells you everything you need to know and the great thing is that these investment pieces will be with your for many years to come!