What are PFAS-free pans?
What's PFAS
PFAS is the abbreviation of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances. These chemicals repel water, grease, and dirt. You can find PFAS in more than the coatings of pans. These substances are also used in food packaging or fabric, like rain clothes. PFAS is released from pans when you heat them above 260°C. That's the temperature at which food burns. With regular use, these substances aren't released.
How do you recognize a PFAS pan?
You can recognize a PFAS pan by a black non-stick coating. This coating is made of a substance that contains PFAS. There are also pans with a titanium non-stick coating. This coating contains the substance fluoropolymer that is enforced with titanium oxide. Titanium oxide is also often used in latex paint or sunscreen. This coating also contains PFAS.
Which pans don't contain PFAS?
Ceramic coating
A pan with a ceramic coating doesn't contain PFAS. This coating is made of natural materials. In addition, a ceramic coating is stronger than a standard non-stick coating. For example, the pan lasts longer. Thanks to the smooth coating, you don't have to use a lot of oil or butter. That's nice, because you now cook more healthily in 2 ways.
Cast-iron coating
You often see a cast-iron coating in Dutch ovens. Cast iron is made of ceramic and enamel. These materials don't contain PFAS. Do you use the pan for the first time? Season it first. Heat the pan to a high temperature and add some oil to the pan. This creates a layer that functions as a sort of coating. After use, you only have to rinse the pan with water.
No non-stick coating
Pans that don't have a coating also don't contain PFAS. The upside of these pans is that they can handle high temperatures. It's important that you use enough oil or butter. This creates a layer that prevents sticking. Pans without a non-stick coating are often made of stainless steel. When you maintain them well, they have a long lifespan.
