Is your cooking pot safe? What to know and how to choose pots

Most people spend a lot of time thinking about the ingredients they put into their meals, but far fewer think about the cookware those meals are prepared in.

The pots and pans used every day can have a significant impact on cooking performance, food safety, and even long-term value for money.

There are so many types of cookware that researching products can start to feel like an endless black hole of information. When you’re choosing a type of cookware, narrow it down by asking yourself the following questions:

How does it need to be cleaned?

Cookware needs to be cleaned thoroughly each time to avoid bacteria buildup and lower the risk of foodborne illness. The “safest” cookware in the world can still make you sick if it isn’t cleaned correctly.

Cleaning and care needs can be slightly different for cookware depending on its materials. Make sure you know what’s needed so you can decide if it’s worth it to you.

Will it hold up to everyday use?

We’re not always able to invest in high-quality, durable cookware, and that’s okay. Sometimes you just need a few affordable pots and pans to get you through a season when money is tight.

You can reduce wear and tear on your cookware to help it last a little longer by pairing it with the right cooking utensils.

One example is wooden spatulas and cooking spoons. Wooden cooking utensils can cut down on the chances of scratching up nonstick coatings.

Are there evidence-based health risks?

This is the big question and may vary according to your perspective and health-history.

“Nonstick” pots and pans are usually lined with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), also known as Teflon. StudiesTrusted Source have linked the chemicals in Teflon with health concerns such as low birth weight, thyroid disease, kidney and testicular cancer, and harm to children’s immune systems.

According to Trusted Source, Teflon fumes released from very hot cookware can also cause flu-like symptoms when inhaled.

Was this product manufactured in an ethical or ‘green’ way?

Pots and pans can be a significant environmental waste hazard, both because of the way they’re produced and the fact that many don’t hold up well and equate to non-biodegradable junk after a couple of uses.

Buying products from companies that are transparent about manufacturing processes might set you back extra dollars, but will probably provide you with a product that will last.