Sneaky Dangers in Non-Stick Pans: Don't Buy Without Checking for PFAS
Avoid purchasing non-stick pans that lack PFAS verification
At first, you might adore how easily everything slips off the glossy surface of brand-new coated pans. But later, you might be disenchanted: Where did the Teflon magic go?
The brutal truth isn't sugar-coated: There's no accurate labeling if PFAS are used in the manufacturing of non-stick coated pans. The acronym represents per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
PFAS are employed in non-stick coatings because they are more heat-resistant, fat- and water-repellent, explains the Consumer Advice Center Hamburg.
PFAS are incredibly persistent and build up in nature and in humans. The problem: these substances are potentially cancer-causing, according to consumer advocates.
Although the risks are evident, PFAS are currently still acceptable in the EU. While there are plans to ban them, there's no legal restriction yet. Consequently, manufacturers can utilize PFAS and do not have to disclose them at present.
What should consumers look for when purchasing a pan?
Given the circumstances, the consumer advocates suggest the following precautions when buying a pan:
- Watch out for symbols on the packaging: Warnings pertaining to specific temperatures should not be exceeded could indicate PFAS.
- Avoid being deceived by statements like "PFOA-free" or "Without PFOA." The abbreviation stands for perfluorooctanoic acid. This substance from the PFAS family has been banned in the EU since 2020. The labeling only targets a single substance from the extensive PFAS family, rather than PFAS as a whole.
- Demand that the manufacturer specifically discloses the components of the coating.
Tip: A free sample letter is available online from the Consumer Advice Center Hamburg.
- Be wary of special offers and bargains. The suspicion of consumer advocates: Before a ban takes effect, PFAS-containing products are quickly offered for sale, frequently with attention-grabbing discounts.
Tip: Those who want to be completely certain are recommended by consumer advocates to purchase PFAS-free alternatives such as ceramic pans.
Further Reading Scratches and Co. When should coated pans be discarded? Background: The Consumer Advice Center Hamburg had six leading manufacturers' non-stick pans tested. In four of them, high levels of organic fluorine compounds were detected. In two pans, the coating could not be analyzed. In no case was the use of PFAS noted on the packaging or product.
While there is a statement from the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment that manufacturers commonly cite, the consumer advocates claim it is now over five years old. Recent findings from the Federal Environment Agency and the European Chemicals Agency suggest a rapid, comprehensive PFAS ban, according to the Consumer Advice Center Hamburg. From the point of view of consumer advocates, it is therefore insufficient to gradually substitute problematic coatings.
Source: ntv.de, awi/dpa
- Consumers
- Tests
- Nutrition
- Stiftung Warentest
Additional Insights
When seeking out non-stick cookware, consumers should consider several factors.
1. Check for PTFE (Teflon)
- Understanding PTFE: PTFE, commonly known as Teflon, belongs to the PFAS family. Not all PTFE is created using the most concerning PFAS like PFOA and PFOS, which are no longer legally used in the US.
- Reading Labels: Look for products labeled as "PTFE-free" or "PFAS-free," although some manufacturers might use alternative terminology or formulations.
2. Research the Manufacturer
- Check the Brand: Verify if the manufacturer has made any statements regarding the use of PFAS in their products. Some manufacturers publicly assure their products are PFAS-free.
- Country of Origin: Be mindful of the country of origin, as some countries still utilize PFOA and PFOS.
3. Consider Alternatives
- Ceramic Coatings: Opt for non-stick pans with ceramic coatings, which are generally devoid of PFAS. Brands like Caraway, GreenPan, and The Always Pan offer ceramic options.
- Cast Iron or Carbon Steel: Contemplate using cast iron or carbon steel cookware, which can create a non-stick surface over time and are naturally devoid of PFAS.
4. Government Resources and Testing
- Consumer Reports Testing: Some organizations, like Consumer Reports, test for PFAS in cookware. Check their ratings and reviews for products that interest you.
- EPA Resources: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides information on products with reduced or no PFAS through their programs like Greener Products and Services.
5. Check for Third-Party Certification
- Some products carry certifications from third-party organizations that ensure conformity with certain standards regarding PFAS levels.
- When choosing a pan, it's crucial to be aware of the community policy regarding PFAS, as some manufacturers may still be using them despite plans for a ban.
- Vocational training in understanding PFAS and their alternatives, such as ceramic coatings, can help consumers make informed decisions about their cookware purchases.
- If a pan claims to be PFOA-free or without PFOA, it's essential to remember that PFOA represents only one substance in the extensive PFAS family, so demanding that the manufacturer specifically discloses the components of the coating is essential.
