How to Choose Healthier Cookware and Kitchen Tools

That may make you wonder how to shop for safer options. Here’s how.

For nonstick cookware, consider ceramic coatings instead of PFAS. Partly because of concerns about PFAS, some manufacturers have started making nonstick pans with a ceramic coating, and CR’s tests have found several that work quite well. Be aware, though, that identifying pans made without PFAS can be a little complicated: Some manufacturers claim that their products don’t contain PFOA, which is just one particularly notorious PFAS compound—but they may still be coated with PTFE or other PFAS. So look for cookware that specifically says its coatings are not made with any PFAS, including PTFE. If a pan is labeled as nonstick without disclosing the material, assume it’s PFAS. 

Care for nonstick pans appropriately. All nonstick cookware, regardless of the coating, should be well cared for, because the coating can deteriorate over time, making it more likely to release potentially harmful chemicals. Use soft utensils, don’t stack your pans, never heat up an empty pan (which can cause pans to overheat), use oil or butter instead of cooking sprays (which can cause a buildup on the pans that is difficult to remove), and wash them by hand, avoiding abrasive cleaners and sponges. If your pans are scratched, flaking, or damaged, stop using them. And because cooking with a PTFE-coated pan, especially at high temperatures, may release potentially harmful gasses, ventilate your kitchen by using an exhaust fan, if you can. 

Opt for uncoated cookware. Good options include cookware made from glass, stainless steel, carbon steel, or cast iron. That includes not only pots and pans but also baking sheets and pie and cake pans. An added benefit of cast iron: Well-seasoned cast iron develops a coating that resists sticking.