If you’re still using non -stick Teflon (nowadays it’s called T-fal), you need to STOP!
Non-stick cookware refers to cookware that has a chemical coating so that food doesn’t stick. Teflon is the brand name for DuPont’s non-stick cookware, but many other companies (for example, T-Fal and Silverstone) also make non-stick cookware. The chemical name for Teflon is polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).
Non-stick cookware may expose you to 2 potentially harmful chemicals:
- tetrafluoroethylene (TFE), used to create the non-stick coating
- perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), used during the manufacturing process
If you heat non-stick cookware to high temperatures, it gives off fumes that contain chemicals that are harmful to your health. Some studies show that heating non-stick coatings to 300°C (572°F) can create fumes containing TFE – a possible cancer-causing substance.
You can also reduce your exposure by avoiding consumer products coated with non-stick chemicals: dental floss, microwave popcorn bags, windshield cleaning solution and even pizza boxes. Also, watch for products that may appear safe but have non-stick inserts, like rice cookers.
Check out my video on safe alternatives, and check out David Suzuki’s suggestions in his article on Teflon – the Dangers and how to avoid it!
