![]() The environmental downside to choosing stainless steel cookware is that manufacturing it is an energy-intensive process, exacerbated by the need to mine raw materials like iron, chromium, and nickel. ![]() ![]() Environmental Impacts of Using Stainless Steel Cookware Practice caution by looking for cookware that can withstand high heat. It is therefore best not to heat non-stick cookware above 500☏. Obviously, when there are toxic chemicals and health concerns, you want to know all of your options for safe cookware!Ī non-stick coating made with PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is touted as safer, but PTFE coatings may still lead to ill health effects, particularly when the cookware is placed under high heat. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a type of PFAS, was widely used in non-stick coatings, but its use has been phased out in the United States due to links to health issues such as thyroid disease, liver damage, and cancer. These are made with per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) which are chemicals that persist in the environment, bioaccumulate in animals, and contaminate soil and water. What is of greater concern are the non-stick coatings, such as Teflon cookware, meant to resist heat, water, oil, and grease. Nonstick pans are a popular choice but can have health risks of their own. However, keep in mind that these are more vulnerable to corrosion. Grade 430 stainless steel is another alternative, as it is more affordable and has low nickel content. If you have a nickel allergy, look for 18/0 stainless steel cookware, which is part of the 400 series, as it contains little to no nickel. However, it’s best avoided if you have an allergy or sensitivity to any of the substances used in stainless steel, such as chromium or nickel. Stainless steel is one of the safest materials you can choose for your cookware. Health Impacts of Using Stainless Steel Cookware If you have leftovers, rather transfer them to another container. Do not use metal utensils.ĭo not use abrasive cleaning materials like steel wool.Īvoid cooking acidic foods in stainless steel.ĭo not use stainless steel cookware for storage. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.Īvoid scratches and other damage by using wooden or silicone-based utensils in your stainless steel cookware. Well-cared-for cookware that is not damaged or used incorrectly should decrease the likelihood of leaching. However, it’s not just about what you buy, but how you use and take care of it. The first number indicates the percentage of chromium and the second the percentage of nickel. You can also keep an eye out for the numbers 18/10 and 18/8, which are part of the 300 series. While the amount released from stainless steel cookware is typically minimal, the concern is that the presence of these elements in our bodies may become too high, especially because we are already getting these from food. These are naturally-occurring substances also present in food. Stainless steel cookware can release small amounts of elements such as chromium and nickel. This post does contain some affiliate links which means The Honest Consumer will receive a commission if you decide to purchase, however, at no additional cost to you! Is Stainless Steel Cookware Toxic? So what is stainless steel? It’s an alloy (a mixture of metals) of iron and chromium, with elements such as nickel, titanium, aluminum, copper, and molybdenum added to improve strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. Not only is it useful in the kitchen, but beyond it too, having been used in the medical profession for everything from scalpels to prosthetic implants. Stainless steel is a versatile material used for a variety of cookware, such as pots and pans, as well as for cutlery and even your kitchen sink.
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