Ceramic Coated Cookware Safety Secrets That No One Will Tell You!

There has been a significant increase in requests for a more detailed explanation and safety review of non-stick ceramic coated cookware. Ceramic coated cookware has gained popularity as an alternative to traditional PTFE (Teflon type) nonstick cookware.

While PTFE (Teflon) has faced negative publicity, there have also been concerns and uncertainties surrounding ceramic and ceramic coated cookware. One major concern is the potential leaching of metals and toxins into food, such as lead, cadmium, and even arsenic.

The question arises: how safe are the ceramic coatings?

Several readers have also inquired about the longevity of the nonstick properties of ceramic coated pans. Will they remain non-stick for an extended period of time? And if they get scratched, will poisonous toxins seep into the food?

Manufacturers and marketers of ceramic coated cookware assert that their products are extremely safe, free from chemicals and heavy metals. Advertisements make claims about the use of titanium, nano particles, and even diamonds. Additionally, all ceramic nonstick manufacturers emphasize that their pans are PFOA free, which is a necessary requirement. It is worth noting that PFOA was phased out in 2015, making even PTFE (Teflon type) cookware PFOA free. Furthermore, all ceramic nonstick cookware brands assert that their pans are highly durable.

Overall, it is important to carefully consider the claims made by manufacturers and conduct thorough research before making a decision about the safety and longevity of ceramic coated cookware.

BUT ARE THEY?

We embarked on a mission to discover and reveal. And now, we present our selection for the finest nonstick ceramic coated cookware available in the current market.

Regard this as your ultimate handbook, providing insights into the safety, user-friendliness, and long-lasting nature of non-stick ceramic coated cookware.

What is ceramic coated cookware?

Ceramic, in technical terms, refers to clay that has undergone the process of being hardened by fire. Therefore, when we refer to ceramic coated cookware, we are referring to a type of metal (typically hard anodized aluminum or stainless steel) that has been coated with a ceramic layer.

The ceramic non-stick coatings commonly used are composed mainly of inorganic minerals, specifically silicon and oxygen. Inorganic implies that these coatings do not contain any carbon.

Is there a difference between ceramic coated cookware vs 100% ceramic cookware?

If you find yourself perplexed by the differences between ceramic coated cookware and 100% ceramic cookware (such as Xtrema), it is important to understand that they are not interchangeable.

There is a clear distinction between the two.

Ceramic coated cookware refers to metallic cookware, typically made of aluminum but sometimes stainless steel or cast iron, that has been coated with one or more layers of ceramic-based non-stick coating.

On the other hand, 100% ceramic cookware is crafted solely from a clay formula that is completely natural. This means it contains no metals, no chemicals, no ptfe (teflon), and no pfoa. It also does not release any heavy metals into your food. Additionally, since there is no additional "coating" apart from a natural ceramic glaze, there is no risk of any flakes or peels ending up in your meals.

If you are in search of 100% ceramic cookware, I highly recommend Xtrema cookware. They have been producing exceptional ceramic cookware for over a decade, and each batch undergoes rigorous testing to ensure compliance with FDA and California Prop 65 regulations.

In fact, I would go so far as to say that if you desire a cookware option that is free of metals, Xtrema is the safest choice available on the market. You can find my comprehensive review here.

Are ceramic nonstick coatings also PTFE and PFOA free?

None of the chemicals mentioned, PTFE and PFOA, are used in the production of Ceramic coated cookware. PTFE, also known as teflon, and PFOA were previously used in the manufacturing process of PTFE-based non-stick coatings, but PFOA has been banned since 2015. However, it is important to note that some manufacturers may combine ceramic coatings with PTFE to provide the strength and heat resistance of ceramic particles along with the superior non-stick properties of PTFE. This is done to offer more options to customers. 

Therefore, if you specifically want pure ceramic coated cookware without PTFE, make sure to check the product description for both PTFE and PFOA-free labels. If it only mentions PFOA-free, there is a possibility that it still contains PTFE.

So the ceramic non-stick coating is made of inorganic materials. Why should I care?

Moreover, it facilitates simpler application in the manufacturing process. Majority of PTFE (Teflon) based non-stick coatings necessitate a minimum of 3 applications. Conversely, ceramic coatings only require a single layer. Furthermore, they require less time for curing, resulting in reduced oven time, energy savings, and a 50% decrease in carbon dioxide emissions compared to PTFE based products.

And how is this inorganic sand-like mineral applied to cookware?

Ceramic coated cookware often utilizes a Sol-gel process to apply ceramic non-stick coatings. The Sol-gel process involves converting an inorganic liquid solution into a gel, which can then be applied to various metallic surfaces. These coatings are typically applied through spraying or dipping the item into the mineral gel. S

ubsequently, a high heat firing process called curing is employed to harden the gel. As the gel undergoes this curing process, its ingredients fuse together, resulting in a smooth and glossy ceramic surface, which is a distinctive feature of ceramics.

What about heat resistance?

A high-quality ceramic coated cookware, due to its inorganic composition, can withstand heat up to 450 C, equivalent to approximately 842 F. In contrast, Teflon and similar coatings start to deteriorate after reaching 500 F.

It is worth noting that the majority of cooking and baking processes occur within the temperature range of 350 F to 450 F. Therefore, when it comes to heat resistance, the type of coating becomes inconsequential. As long as you cook within these normal temperature ranges, both Teflon and ceramic nonstick pans will maintain their coating effectively.

Is nonstick ceramic coated cookware safe?

Various ceramic manufacturers have confirmed that even if a ceramic coated pan is accidentally heated beyond 500°F, it will not release any harmful fumes or break down. This sets it apart from a Teflon pan, which starts to break down at 500°F and emits fumes. These Teflon fumes are known to be irritating to humans and can cause what is commonly referred to as 'Teflon flu'.

You might be surprised to know that it is quite easy for a pan to reach such high temperatures. According to The Good Housekeeping Institute, an empty pan takes less than 2 minutes to heat up to over 500°F. If there is oil in the pan, it only takes a mere 2.5 minutes to reach a scorching temperature of 514°F.

Is ceramic coated cookware safe for birds?

Indeed, ceramic coated pans do not release any harmful gases when exposed to higher temperatures, unlike Teflon. It is well-known that Teflon fumes can be fatal for pet birds. Therefore, if you have concerns about the safety of your feathered friends, opting for ceramic coated non-stick pans would be a more suitable choice.

What about lead or cadmium in the ceramic coating?

Reports have emerged regarding certain ceramic glazes that release lead or cadmium into food. This is particularly prevalent in ceramic cookware originating from Latin American and Asian countries, where regulations may be less stringent. However, in the United States, ceramic products must adhere to strict FDA requirements, as outlined in Proposition 65, ensuring they are free from lead or cadmium.

Furthermore, the FDA oversees the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), which serves as the primary legislation governing food contact materials (FCM).

Reputable companies are expected to comply with these regulations, or at the very least, they should. To ensure accuracy, we contacted Weilburger Coatings, a German company responsible for manufacturing the Greblon® non-stick ceramic coatings used in renowned cookware brands like Ozeri and Healthy Legend Cookware. Our inquiry aimed to ascertain the safety of their coating.

Here is their response:

As Greblon-Ceramic coatings are designed for food contact, of course there is no danger of lead leaching from the coating. The product has been tested to meet US-American as well as European Food contact regulations. Naturally, for us to market safe products, food contact for us means no lead, no cadmium, no PFOA, no PFOS .

Head of R&D, WEILBURGER Coatings GmbH

In order to gain a deeper understanding and ensure that I have thoroughly investigated beyond the claims made by manufacturers, I conducted additional research on food contact regulations in Europe.

The regulations in Europe are just as stringent, if not more so, compared to those in the United States when it comes to materials that come into contact with food. The entire European Union adheres to a harmonized legal framework outlined in Commission Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004. This regulation establishes the fundamental principles of safety and inertness for all Food Contact Materials (FCMs). According to this regulation, materials that come into contact with food must not release harmful levels of substances into the food and must not alter the taste, smell, or composition of the food in an unacceptable manner.

To summarize, you can have a high level of confidence that ceramic coated cookware sold in the United States by reputable companies, regardless of whether the coating is sourced internationally or locally, is safe to use. It does not release toxic chemicals or heavy metals into your food.

The key point to remember here is that if you are in the market for a ceramic coated non-stick pan or set, it is important to choose well-established brands that openly declare their products to be free of these harmful substances. 

What about the nonstick properties?

The debate begins right here! According to manufacturers such as Thermolon and Greblon, ceramic non-stick coatings offer a superior release compared to traditional non-stick pans. They claim that these coatings are long-lasting, resistant to scratches and abrasions, and do not corrode.

However, in reality, opinions on ceramic coated cookware are divided. While some people have had positive experiences with it lasting for years, others have found that the non-stick properties of ceramic coatings deteriorate quickly, despite taking precautions and being careful. Many individuals have reported that the non-stick element of a ceramic coated pot only lasts for about a year. To enhance durability, it is advisable to opt for a set with multiple layers of ceramic nonstick coating instead of the standard single layer.

Is there any way to extend the life of a ceramic coated non-stick pan?

Certainly, here are some recommendations:

1. Use a gentle detergent and hot water along with a dishcloth or sponge for washing. Avoid using scour pads of any kind.
2. Cook your food on low to medium heat.
3. Avoid subjecting the pan to rapid temperature changes, going from hot to cold too quickly.
4. Despite the manufacturer's claim of being dishwasher safe, it is advisable to wash the pan by hand.
5. Opt for plastic or wooden spoons instead of metal utensils, as they can potentially chip or scratch the ceramic surface, compromising its non-stick properties.
6. A personally tried and tested tip is to lightly brush the pan with oil or butter before cooking, especially in a ceramic coated non-stick pan. This not only helps extend the lifespan of the non-stick coating but also aids in food release and enhances the taste of your dishes.

Can you cook on high heat with a ceramic non-stick coated pan since it is heat resistant up to 842 F (450 C)?

In general, it is recommended to cook most food on medium to medium-high temperatures to maintain its nutritional value and extend the lifespan of your pan. While there are a few exceptions such as stir-fries and searing steaks, it is still unnecessary to use extremely high temperatures for cooking. 

Regarding the question, a ceramic coated pan should theoretically be able to withstand higher heat. However, it is important to exercise caution when subjecting it to sudden temperature changes, whether it's going from high to low or low to high. These abrupt changes can potentially cause the ceramic coating to shatter or crack.

So if non-stick ceramic coating is like sand or stone, it should be ok to use Metal Utensils, right?

It is advisable to exclusively utilize wooden, plastic, silicone, or nylon utensils when cooking with non-stick pans. The use of stainless steel utensils may result in scratches or damage to the non-stick coating, be it Teflon or Ceramic, thereby diminishing the pan's lifespan.

Can you wash pans with non-stick ceramic coating in the dishwasher?

It varies depending on the brand. Numerous ceramic coated non-stick pans claim to be dishwasher safe. However, at The Cookware Advisor, we highly advise hand washing all pans using a gentle detergent and hot water, avoiding any abrasive pads.

Can ceramic coated cookware be used in the oven?

The temperature tolerance of pans varies depending on the handles of the brand you purchase. If the handles are made of stainless steel, most pans can withstand temperatures up to approximately 500 F. However, if the handles are made of silicon, it is recommended to limit the temperature to 350 F.

Is a scratched or chipped ceramic pan safe to use?

Yes, it is safe to use a pan with deep scratches that expose the underlying metal. However, it is important to consider the type of metal that is exposed. 

In the case where the underlying metal is aluminum, such as with Caraway cookware, research suggests that aluminum does not leach into food from coated or anodized aluminum cookware. Even if there are a few minor scratches on the coating, the chances of aluminum leaching into food are very low and not enough to pose a health hazard.

On the other hand, if the underlying metal is stainless steel, like with Zwilling Spirit cookware, stainless steel is generally recognized as a safe cookware material. While it can leach small amounts of nickel and chromium into food, these quantities are typically within safe and acceptable limits for most people. Therefore, even if there are a few scratches on a non-stick ceramic coated stainless steel pan, the amount of leaching would be almost negligible.

In conclusion, as long as the scratches are not excessive and the underlying metal is either aluminum or stainless steel, it is safe to continue using the pan.

Is ceramic coating safer than teflon?

In other words, does ceramic coated cookware offer a healthier option and have less impact on the environment?

At higher temperatures, ceramic coated cookware is indeed a better choice. Unlike Teflon, the coating does not break down and release harmful fumes. These fumes can be detrimental to the environment, pose a threat to birds, and cause irritation to humans.

However, when it comes to normal cooking temperatures below 500F, ceramic coated cookware is neither healthier nor safer than a PTFE (Teflon) coated pan.

If ensuring the safety of your cookware is a top priority, I highly recommend considering 100% ceramic cookware such as Xtrema, instead of ceramic coated options.

Is ceramic coating the best type of nonstick that is designed to last?

The prevailing opinion appears to be negative.

Indeed, according to tests conducted by Whitford, a leading supplier of various non-stick coatings, it was discovered that the top-performing ceramic coating will only last 15% as long as a PTFE (teflon) based coating. This means it is six times less durable! However, it is important to note that these tests were conducted in 2007 and ceramic coatings have made significant advancements since then.

It is important to remember that all non-stick coatings, whether PTFE or Ceramic based, will eventually wear out. The lifespan of the non-stick coating depends not only on its quality but also on the frequency and intensity of use.

Ultimately, when considering Ceramic coated cookware, the decision is primarily about choosing a more environmentally friendly and healthier option for higher temperatures, rather than selecting a superior non-stick pan.

If you desire exceptional non-stick performance, nothing compares to a high-quality 'Teflon ®' or PTFE based non-stick coating. However, if you prioritize an option that is somewhat better for the environment and your well-being (including your feathered friends), then Ceramic coated cookware might be the right choice for you.

Which non-stick ceramic coated cookware does The Cookware Advisor recommend?

Choice #1: Caraway Cookware

Caraway, established in 2019, aims to create aesthetically pleasing and safe ceramic coated cookware. Their focus on healthy cookware is evident in their own words, as they describe it as a "healthy obsession". Insider information reveals that their cookware is crafted from heavy gauge aluminum and features multiple layers of ceramic coating, surpassing the standard ceramic coated sets in terms of durability and non-stick properties. 

It is important to note that their nonstick ceramic coating is a unique formulation exclusive to Caraway. For a comprehensive review, we invite you to explore our detailed analysis. If you are in search of top-notch ceramic coated cookware, Caraway cookware comes highly recommended.

Choice #2: Always Pan by Our Place

Introducing the newest addition to the world of direct to consumer brands that has quickly gained popularity on Instagram due to its stylish designs. Our Place, established in 2020, offers a range of non-toxic ceramic coated cookware with a mission to bring people together through the joy of cooking. Their innovative Thermakind ceramic nonstick coating is not only environmentally friendly but also 50% more durable than previous coatings.

One of their standout products is the Always Pan 2.0, a versatile piece of cookware that can replace 10 separate items in your kitchen. We have personally tested this claim and can confirm that it actually surpasses the functionality of 10 pieces. For a comprehensive review of the Always Pan 2.0, please visit our website.

If you're in the market for nonstick ceramic coated cookware, the 10-in-1 Always Pan 2.0 is an excellent choice. You can purchase it directly from our website.

Curious about how the Always Pan 2.0 compares to Caraway cookware? We have conducted a detailed comparison that you can find on our website.

Other Cookware Advisor picks for best nonstick ceramic coated cookware

While Caraway and Always Pan utilize their own exclusive nonstick coatings, there exist alternative suppliers of nonstick coatings that are employed by different brands. Notably, Thermolon, Greblon, and Ecolon are among the exceptional options. Here, we present the recommended products and brands associated with each non-stick coating:

Thermolon nonstick coating

Thermolon is made by the Cookware Company. According to them:

Thermolon™ has been certified by third party testing labs as conforming to international regular food contact standards set by the US FDA (USA Food & Drug Administration) and by EU regulators

Good to know! Here are some of the brands offered by the Cookware Company that use their Thermolon nonstick ceramic coating.

GreenPan
GreenLife

Greblon nonstick coating

Best Greblon coated cookware brands: (made by Weilburger Coatings Germany):

Ozeri Green Earth pans
Healthy Legend

Ecolon nonstick coating

Brand that uses Ecolon ceramic coating:

Neoflam Eela Cookware

Other Notable Non-Stick Ceramic coated pans:

Other notable nonstick ceramic coated cookware options

If you are interested in learning more about the Tefal Fresh Gourmet Ceramic Nonstick Cookware, the Cook N Home (Budget choice), or the Duxtop Stainless Steel Induction Ceramic Nonstick Pan Set, you can find additional information about these brands of 'copper' ceramic cookware that are often advertised on TV, such as Copper Chef, Red Copper, and Gotham Steel, by clicking here.

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