We shop for organic produce, we’ve swapped the toxic cleaners for safer stuff, ditched the artificial fragrances in our home, and moved to cleaner choices for our beauty routine. However, many are surprised to find that our cookware can actually be a major source of lurking toxic chemicals and can contribute to our body’s toxic load. The good news is that there are so many better non-toxic cookware options out there!
Materials and metals like aluminum, plastic, lead, and Teflon can pose serious risks to your health and are prevalent in a lot of cookware options. And if the cookware we constantly use is dishing out harmful toxins, we are doing ourselves and all that effort a disservice.
Toss the toxic pots and pans and check out our guide to healthier swaps below. And if you’ve already made the switch, let us know in the comments what your favorite cookware is!
Featured image by Michelle Nash.
What To Toss
Traditional Non-Stick Coatings
Teflon is the trademarked coating that makes non-stick cookware non-stick. It’s incredibly convenient and was a gamechanger for cooking when it was introduced around 80 years ago. The issue is that these coatings (which contain compounds like PFOA or PTFE), are highly toxic and have been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, organ failure, reproductive damage, and other health issues (check out the film Dark Waters and the documentary The Devil We Know for a deeper dive into the health risks).
Newer nonstick coatings, like Teflon, technically no longer contain PFOA and PFOS, but you wanna keep an eye out for Teflon cookware that was made before 2013 as it could still contain these dangerous chemicals. And while most Teflon coated pans these days are PFOA-free, this often means that they still contain PTFE (PFOA or C8, which is used to make PTFE coating, and as we discussed, is considered a carcinogen). On top of that, high heat causes the chemicals to break down, releasing toxic fumes. Additionally, PFOAs and PTFEs don’t biodegrade – which means they can accumulate in our bodies increasing the risk of damage.
Aluminum
There is some debate over whether aluminum is safe. Aluminum exists in our environment and we all have some amount of aluminum exposure daily. However, research shows that aluminum is toxic at certain levels. Elevated aluminum levels have been linked to everything from anemia and other blood disorders, to ALS and Parkinson’s to cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and neurological problems.
Healthier Non-Toxic Cookware Swaps
Ceramic coated
Not all ceramic coatings are made equal. Skimp on the cheap ceramic coatings and instead look for one that’s certified by third-party testing and free of PFAs, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. I personally have a few Green Pans and love them! They’re nonstick, affordable and with some care hold up well. Another great option is the Always Pan—the color options are so good!
GreenPan Padova 10-Piece Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware Set, $299.95
u003cpu003eA 10-piece set of ceramic pots and pans is just what the doctor ordered. In this kit, you’re getting eight-inch and 11-inch fry pans, two-quart and three-quart saucepans with lids, a five-quart casserole dish with a lid and a three-quart skillet with a lid. With a set as inclusive as this, you’ll be itching to use each dish as quickly as possible.u003c/pu003e
Ceramic
Ceramic is great as it’s completely inert—meaning it won’t leach any harmful toxins. Ceramic non-toxic cookware pans are generally free of heavy metals, polymers, coatings, and dyes, plus, they’re dishwasher safe! Easier to wash than cast iron, you can just use warm soapy water. If you’re interested in trying, Xtrema is a great brand to check out. A note: you do have to be more careful with these pans, as they’re more fragile than other types of pots and pans.
Stainless steel
Not all stainless steel is created equal. When shopping you will see numbers like 200, 304, 316, and 430, the higher the number the stronger, longer-lasting it is and the less nickel content it will have. Be sure to use gentle cleaners as harsh cleaners can damage the lining, which then can allow the heavy metals in the core to leach into your food.
HOMICHEF 14-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set
u003cpu003eThis affordable, 14-piece stainless steel set has everything you need to make your kitchen complete. You’re getting a sauce pot, saucepan, fry pan, sauté pan, stock pot, and a whole slew of stainless steel utensils to add to your collection.u003c/pu003e
HOMICHEF Stainless Steel 1.75 Quart Sauce Pan With Lid
u003cpu003eThis sleek stainless steel saucepan makes a great addition to any collection. It’s no-frills with a matte finish and polished body—plus, it’s nickel free and non-toxic. Great for simmering sauces, glazes, and jellies, or melting butter to perfection.u003c/pu003e
CHANTAL Induction 21 Steel Cookware 5 Quart Saute Skillet With Glass Lid
u003cpu003eMade from Japanese steel, this induction skillet distributes heat quickly and evenly, which means you don’t have to worry about uneven cooking. This pan is perfect for searing chicken or fish, and is fully equipped to turn your u003ca href=u0022https://camillestyles.com/category/food/recipes/pastas/u0022u003epasta dreamsu003c/au003e into a reality.u003c/pu003e
All-Clad D3 Stainless Cookware, 12-Inch Fry Pan With Lid
u003cpu003eShiny stainless steel, a contoured handle, and a flat/flared construction, this fry pan is ready to fry, flip, and toss anything you throw its way. Plus, it’s oven safe up to 600 degrees, so you can go from stovetop to broil in no time.u003c/pu003e
HOMICHEF Matte Polished Stainless Steel 3.5 Quart Stock Pot With Lid
u003cpu003eNickel and toxin-free, this 3.5 quart stock pot is perfectly prepped to make your soup dreams come to life. Simmer stocks, soups, u003ca href=u0022https://camillestyles.com/food/creamy-polenta-bowls-recipe/u0022u003epolentau003c/au003e, and pasta in this beautiful piece of cookware. It’s simple, efficient, and completely harm free.u003c/pu003e
Cast iron
This is the OG non-toxic cookware. They take a bit of time to get used to if you’ve never tried them, but work so well once you figure it out and are budget-friendly! Some tips: heat before adding food, avoid soap when cleaning, and season regularly (check out this post for tips for seasoning). There are many methods for cleaning cast irons, but my go-to is scrubbing with some salt and rinsing with water. I then dry thoroughly, drizzle with cooking oil, spread it around, and then set on low heat for a bit to ensure the pan is completely dry.
Lodge L5SK3 Pre-Seasoned Cast-Iron 8-Inch Skillet
u003cpu003eA classic cast-iron skillet is absolutely essential in any kitchen. This offering is cost-friendly and easy to use for searing steaks, chicken, fish, and more to absolute perfection. Like any cast-iron product, be sure to avoid washing it with soap as the chemicals present in soap can strip away the pan’s seasoning.u003c/pu003e
Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan
u003cpu003eA grill pan is great to have on hand for rainy days or the winter when it’s too cold to grill in the chill (sad, I know). Grill u003ca href=u0022https://camillestyles.com/food/smashed-grilled-sweet-potatoes-with-chimichurri/u0022u003eveggiesu003c/au003e, meats, u003ca href=u0022https://camillestyles.com/food/easy-grilled-peaches-recipe/u0022u003efruitsu003c/au003e, pizza, burgers, fish, or anything you think could use a good char. With a grill pan like this, the world is your oyster.u003c/pu003e
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven With Loop Handles, 5 Quart
u003cpu003eThis pot practically screams u003ca href=u0022https://camillestyles.com/food/braised-short-rib-recipe/u0022u003eshort ribsu003c/au003e. It’s ideal for getting a heavy sear on ingredients before simmering away to saucy succulence. With a heavy cast-iron dutch oven at your fingertips, you’re ready to braise, roast, simmer, sear, sauté, and pretty much any other cooking term you can think of. It’s magical.u003c/pu003eGlass
The main perk of glass cookware is that there are tons of budget-friendly glass options out there, Pyrex being the most common one. You can find everything from baking dishes, to round soup dishes to loaf pans.
CorningWare French White 10 Piece Ceramic Bakeware Set
u003cpu003eA 10-piece set of ceramic has the equipment you need to go from oven to table to fridge without having to transfer a thing. Each piece is also freezer, oven, microwave, and dishwasher safe, so you don’t have to worry about tearing them apart.u003c/pu003e
Visions Vs-337 Pot Kitchen Cookware Saucepan
u003cpu003eThis three piece set of striking glass pots would look elegant in any kitchen. They’re composed of polished glass and are stovetop, microwave, oven, refrigerator/freezer, and dishwasher safe. Visual appeal and functionality made easy!u003c/pu003e
Pyrex Easy Grab Glass Baking Dish with Red Lid, 3-Quart
u003cpu003eYou can never—I mean never—go wrong with a classic Pyrex dish. Easy to use and even easier to transport, these magical dishes are practically made for gatherings. I mean, It wouldn’t be a proper gathering without mixing up the Pyrex dishes.u003c/pu003e
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel is sometimes used for frying pans and woks. The non-toxic cookware option is similar to cast iron, and can output small amounts of iron into food, which is great if you happen to have someone with slight anemia in your home!
Lodge Manufacturing Company carbon steel skillet, 10-Inch
u003cpu003eA classic skillet is a must-have. And I’m not talking about a nonstick one that’s coated in Teflon (boo!). This carbon steel skillet is ready to sear, sauté, grill, and fry up everything you’ve got working in the kitchen. Plus, it has a silicone hot handle to protect hands up to 500 degrees, so you can ditch the makeshift kitchen towel grip that always hangs a u003cemu003elittleu003c/emu003e close to the flame.u003c/pu003e
Helen Chen’s Asian Kitchen Flat Bottom Wok, 13.5-Inch
u003cpu003eA wok is another great pan to have in your kitchen for stir-frying, deep-frying, steaming, and even boiling. It’s an all-purpose dish that allows you to efficiently do just about anything. This carbon steel variety comes equipped with bamboo handles and a high-domed lid, so nothing is standing between you and your culinary adventures.u003c/pu003e
Lodge Carbon Steel Skillet, Pre-Seasoned, 12-inch
u003cpu003eFlat, sleek, and seasoned, this alloy steel skillet is ready to hit the stovetop or grill. Unlike its handled counterpart pictured above, this skillet can go just about anywhere (oven, grill, open flame, stovetop), so nothing is stopping you from getting that elusive crust on your meats, finally making a pizza at home, or charring up your vegetables.u003c/pu003e
Mammafong Flat Bottom Carbon Steel Wok Pan, 14-Inch
u003cpu003eAnother great wok selection, this carbon steel wok has a small flat base that helps it sit upright on your stovetop without sacrificing the integrity of the cookware. And like with cast-iron products, avoid using any soap on your wok and be sure to season with oil after rinsing it clean. Stir-frying, sautéeing, steaming, and braising is your jam with this pan, so don’t be afraid to try something new here. With the right equipment, you too can wok on! Sorry not sorry.u003c/pu003ePorcelain Enamel
Enameled non-toxic cookware is usually made of cast iron that has been coated in enamel (think Le Creuset). While not perfect in terms of low heavy-metal content, I’d say this is one of the “better” options. The perk of this cookware is that it won’t rust, in contrast, to cast irons, if not properly seasoned. Cleaning is super easy with mild soap, water, and a gentle scrub pad. It is a bit on the pricier side, but your investment will last you a long time!
Le Creuset Signature 5.5-Qt. Licorice Black Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid
u003cpu003eLe Creuset might just be its own love language. Yes, it’s on the more expensive side, but it really makes a great u003ca href=u0022https://camillestyles.com/beauty/skincare/20-beauty-gifts-under-100/u0022u003egift for yourselfu003c/au003e or someone you love. The French cookware is not only strikingly gorgeous, but its smooth enamel finish ensures years of use and admiring. This chic matte black dutch oven makes a beautiful centerpiece for any dinner party. The only question you’ll face is exactly what to debut under the hood. u003ca href=u0022https://camillestyles.com/food/vegetarian-sweet-potato-black-bean-chili/u0022u003eSweet potato and black bean chiliu003c/au003e, u003ca href=u0022https://camillestyles.com/food/easy-chicken-tortilla-soup-recipe/u0022u003echicken tortilla soupu003c/au003e, and u003ca href=u0022https://camillestyles.com/food/one-pot-vegan-corn-soup/u0022u003espicy vegan corn soupu003c/au003e are some stellar starting points.u003c/pu003e
Le Creuset Signature Oyster 5-Qt. Everyday Pan
u003cpu003ePaella, casseroles, and family-sized meals are just a few ingredients away from greatness with this easy everyday pan. With handles on both sides, transporting your masterpiece from stovetop to table has never been so easy. The non-reactive surface of this pan lends itself well to both wet and dry cooking methods, so you can keep your other pans in their rightful place.u003c/pu003e
Le Creuset Signature 10.25u0022 White Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
u003cpu003eAnother foolproof skillet, this enameled cast iron skillet can brace the stove, oven, or grill in style. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe, which is a major bonus. Its non-reactive surface doesn’t even require seasoning, so you can take it straight from the dishwasher to its home in your kitchen. Cleaning has never been so easy.u003c/pu003e
Le Creuset Signature 5.5-Qt. Cerise Red Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid
u003cpu003eIf red is more your jam, give this cherry-finished dutch oven a try. It’s clad in a smooth enamel that makes it sealed from acid, alkali, odors, and stains. And, like the other Le Creuset products highlighted, it’s dishwasher safe and undeniably attractive.u003c/pu003eThis post was originally published on May 21, 2020, and has since been updated.
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Comments (17)
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LeCrueset tested high for Cadmium. Check out Tamara Reubens blog, Lead Free Mama. She had it tested and it failed
You’re missing wrought iron. Lighter than cast, they don’t break if dropped, vented handles so no burning yourself. They’re perfect for non toxic, non stick! Solidteknics are my fav.
Oh amazing, good tip! Totally adding wrought iron on my list to check out.
You’re missing wrought iron from your list. Lighter than cast, won’t break if dropped, vented handles so handles stay cool. They’ll last forever, non toxic, non stick. Solidteknics is my fav!
Yes ! We’ve been using only cast iron for years because of this ! I’m really happy to have a guide to other options too – especially now that I’m n the midst of creating a wedding registry!! Thanks for this awesome resource ! I appreciate you ladies talking about environmental toxins too! It’s something I mention a lot to my patients and while some a receptive a lot give me the raised eyebrow – I can’t wait until this becomes more mainstream. Yes yes yes!
Perfect timing! Wish I could redo my wedding registry with a few of these! 😉 And such a great point – environmental toxins are such an important piece of the wellness puzzle. Your patients are so lucky to have such an aware care provider!
Hello! I have a question! You mention that stainless steel has different grades, and yes I have seen these numbers. So is it best to avoid the nickel content (is having nickel bad)? I’m not familiar with heavy metals – I don’t know which metals are considered heavy metals and I don’t know which ones are considered harmful. Is the stronger, more expensive stainless steel also
the least toxic (I wasn’t sure if “better” in kitchen industry terms of quality will also translate to “less toxic”)? Please let me know which type of stainless steel you recommend as the safest!! Thank you for your post! 🙂
What cookware are you using in the pictures?
Yes, here in the U.K. The Netherton Foundry in Shropshire make spun iron pots and pans which are brilliant . Much much lighter than cast iron, which as you get older is more difficult to lift. It’s easy to clean and just needs a bit of seasoning with hemp oil and care when hot not to use cold water. But cooks very well, even eggs don’t stick and lovely traditional and attractive styles with videos on the site to show you how to use them,
What cookware do you use now? You mentioned Greenpan. Are you still using Greenpan? If so, which line? Thanks for all the info.
Hi! Great read. What pot are you using in the second photo with the soup? Thanks!
I have recently began to think ” cookware”, when trying to understand my long term unexplained anaemia. It is now considered endemic. I eat well!
So, I have begun investing in cast iron. I am glad to hear of other options here. Thank you.
My question, did you say carbon steel can release iron into your cooking? If so, does cast iron do likewise?
Secondly, how do nickel plated cutlery stand. Safe or no?
Thank you, I have been educated.
316Tiis what we are using. Frying without oil and cooking vegetables without water keeping its nutrients intact.
I buy cookware that is not made in China. By doing this, it limits brands, but I feel safer. I love All Clad and Made In.
Do ILAG pans have aluminum? Are they a good choice over aluminum pans for baking?
search on the internet type in greenpan false claims
fantastic for my clients, and just as importantly, for me! I really appreciate this helpful article. Have you heard of brabantia cookware? They are stainless steel with a ceramic coating but I’m not so sure how great they really are. They were gifted to me for Christmas 2021, but the more and more I learn, the more and more I’m trying to protect my family.
Thank you so much,
Danyell Wallet KLC IHP