These popular pots and pans can be toxic for your health
A guide on how to pick the best cookware that will last and is non-toxic.
Many people pay attention to the food they eat, but hardly take into consideration the health complications that can come from using cookware that is made of toxic material. The pots you use to prepare your food are just as important as the food itself.
With so many pots and pans on the market, picking the right cookware that is durable and good for one's health can be difficult. It is important to know what to look out for before buying any cookware.
In the video below, the vlogger explains the dangers of using non-stick cookware. Although these pots are popular because they are easy to clean-up, don't require much stirring and turning, and prevent food from burning easily, they should be used with precaution.
READ: Tips to help you become a better cook
According to Brightside, “the non-stick properties of Teflon cookware are achieved with a coating of PTFE. This is a plastic polymer that, when heated above 572°F, starts to release toxins. These toxic fumes lead to flu-like symptoms called polymer fume fever, informally known as Teflon flu.”
This means they cannot be used at high temperatures or the non-stick coating could melt or release toxins.
Brightside also explains the dangers of using a soft ceramic coating. It says “it can start chipping after a few months of daily use. When this happens, lead and cadmium sometimes found in the coating will end up in your food and, thus, in your body.”
Other dangerous pots and pans include Aluminum pots because “elevated levels of aluminium in the body have been linked to several central nervous system diseases, including Alzheimer's and ALS.” Brightside also warns against copper cookware, especially when it isn’t coated, because it can cause metal poisoning.
It recommends real cast-iron, glass cookware, stainless steel and 100% ceramic cookware.
The below video is a guide on how to pick the best pots.