There are many types of coating used on cookware items, including skillets and pans.
High quality cookware is not cheap and many cooks --- both professional and amateur --- often prefer cookware coated with some type of non-stick coating. Many wonder if this coating is safe or will alter the taste or the texture of the food. Fortunately, most coated skillets and pans are safe when used properly.
Polytetrafluoroethylene
Polytetrafluoroethylene is the generic term for the brand name product known as Teflon. Teflon has been approved and deemed safe for use by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Some insist that the perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) used to make Teflon coating is hazardous to people's health. However, in 1999 the EPA concluded that Teflon products are safe when used properly. It should be noted that when heated without any food in the pan, the Teflon coating could produce toxic fumes. This happens only when the pan is heated to extremely high temperatures for several minutes without any food present in the skillet. This, of course, is an improper use of the product.
Ceramic Coating
Ceramic-coated skillets and pans are often touted as a "safe" alternative to polytetrafluoroethylene-coated products. Ceramic coating does not contain any of the potentially dangerous chemicals in its coating, such as PFOA or PTFE. Though Teflon-coated pans are still safe for use, those who are concerned may consider using ceramic-coated cookware. Ceramic-coated cookware can resist higher temperatures, which helps prevent overheating or damage to the pan. Also, because this coating does not contain the potentially hazardous chemicals, there is no chance they will release these chemicals into the air.
Porcelain Coating
Porcelain-coated cookware may also be referred to as enamel cookware. Porcelain cookware is often an iron-based skillet or pan with a porcelain coating. Like ceramic, it is considered a safer alternative for those who want to avoid polytetrafluoroethylene-coated products. However, should the porcelain chip, the iron will be exposed and can rust. This rust can come in contact with food and create a health hazard. Chipped porcelain cookware should be thrown out if this occurs.
Alternatives
Those who still fear any potential health risks from various coated cookware should consider using uncoated skillets and pans combined with oils or other mediums for cooking. Olive oil, butter and vegetable oil can all help reduce how much food sticks to an uncoated pan. However, these oils can add unwanted calories or even change the overall taste of a recipe. Glass cookware is also an alternative, though some will note that glass cooks food differently.
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