Our pans might be poisoning us.
PFOA is gone. But GenX shows nearly identical toxicity. One scratch releases 9,000 microplastic particles. The old ways may truly be best.
Americans with PFAS in their blood
DuPont settlements for PFOA damage
New EPA drinking water limit for PFAS
The EPA's 2024 standard of 4 parts per trillion is so stringent it requires specialized equipment to detect. This reflects mounting evidence that no safe exposure level exists for these "forever chemicals" that persist in the environment for centuries.
DuPont knew by 1961. Hid it for decades.
By 1984, DuPont found PFOA in public water at 3-5 times their own safety limits. Legal battles revealed links to kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, high cholesterol, ulcerative colitis, and pregnancy complications.
The Replacement Problem
GenX, the primary PFOA substitute, demonstrates nearly equivalent toxicity with an EPA reference dose of 80 ng/kg/day compared to PFOA's 20 ng/kg/day. Studies link it to liver damage, potential cancer risks, and neurotoxic effects.
Testing revealed: Swiss Diamond's "PFOA-free" pan contained 639-703 ppb total PFAS across 16 different compounds. HexClad settled for $2.5 million over false "PFAS-free" advertising.
Above 500°F, pans become toxic.
Below 500°F (260°C)
Generally safe for standard cooking. Temperature control is critical.
Above 500°F
Decomposition releases toxic fluoropolymer gases causing "polymer fume fever" - flu-like symptoms including fever, chills, and respiratory problems. Fatal to pet birds.
Scratch Damage
A single scratch releases approximately 9,000 microplastic particles. Severely damaged coatings can release over 2 million particles per cooking session.
Traditional materials last generations.
Cast Iron
The ultimate survivor with generational durability. Actually provides a health benefit - applesauce jumps from 0.35mg iron to 7.3mg per serving. Natural polymerized oil seasoning is chemically inert.
$10-100, lasts forever
Carbon Steel
40% less weight than cast iron. Heats faster, responds more quickly to temperature changes. 99% iron, 1% carbon. Dominates professional kitchens worldwide.
$40-150
Stainless Steel
Most versatile option. Multi-ply construction solves poor heat conductivity. Leaching decreases significantly after sixth use and remains well below WHO guidelines.
$50-900+
Ceramic-Coated
Zero detectable PFAS confirmed by testing. Sol-gel silicon dioxide coating. Excellent initial non-stick but shorter lifespan of 1-3 years.
$70-400, requires replacement
Diversify your cookware.
The Safest Approach
- Everyday cooking: Stainless steel or cast iron - chemical-free, improves with use
- Low-temperature tasks: Reserve any existing non-stick for eggs and delicate fish, always below 400°F with good ventilation
- Non-stick convenience: Ceramic-coated if you accept 1-3 year replacement cycles
Health priorities guide material selection: Those with iron deficiency benefit from cast iron. Those with hemochromatosis must avoid it. Nickel-sensitive individuals should choose lower-nickel stainless steel grades.
Sometimes the old ways are best.
Durable materials like stainless steel, cast iron, and carbon steel that improve with use provide the best combination of safety, performance, and value. They've safely fed humanity for centuries.