There are tons of major concerns when it comes to preparing foods, even when you cook on your own. One of them is the health concerns about the food being contaminated or ‘poisoned’ by the utensils or cookware- and you don’t even realize it. There are different types of cookware out there and ceramic has been known as one of the most popular types. The question is, is ceramic cookware healthy? Can you use one without having to worry about the risk factors or such thing alike? What are the facts that you should know about ceramic?
The Truth about (Our) Cookware
Leaching is one of the biggest concerns when it comes to preparing food. You don’t want the metal or compound from the cookware to secretly seep into your food and make it unhealthy. Some studies have been conducted related to the issue and some results have shown that the food contains a high level of certain compounds. However, further studies are needed to make a solid claim about it.
If you are shopping for cookware, you will see tons of them. Ceramic, stainless steel, Teflon, glass, cast iron, and aluminum are some of the available types on the market. Which one is completely safe? Which one is the best when it comes to avoiding leach and food contamination?
The problem with our wide arrays of cookware is there are no 100% totally safe products. Each of them has their own strength and flaws, and the best thing you can do is to minimize the downsides. And how can you do that? By making sure that you use the cookware as instructed (by the manufacturers) and you don’t misuse (or abuse) the cookware. That’s why there are some tips on how you should use the cookware properly and correctly.
Ceramic Truth
So, is ceramic cookware healthy? You need to take a look at the types, really. The Best Ceramic Cookware is divided into two major types, the 100% ceramic and the ceramic coated cookware. The coated cookware is often viewed as the alternative to the popular Teflon. The cookware generally has a metal body with aluminum base (for the cooking) and ceramic coating on top of the surface. The aluminum base is great for sturdy construction and it has good (and even) heating circulation. The coating is designed so the foods won’t stick to the surface, creating an easy and fun experience. Cleaning would be made simple too.
Is ceramic nonstick cookware safe? You see, when cookware manufacturers make the cookware, they use PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) as the main compound that is responsible for the nonstick result. However, health studies later found out that some troubled cookware contained PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) which is responsible for some health issues. The reason why Teflon gained a bad reputation because that, the coating contained both PTFE and PFOA.
However, the manufacturing fault happened before 2013 because Teflon wasn’t aware that they had created dangerous products and compounds. After the studies, they changed their policy and manufacturing processing, resulting in safer and better products. They claim that the products after 2013 are all safe because they are using safe materials and methods. They are confident that their new Teflon is free from harmful compounds so people won’t have to worry about their safety. Getting back to ceramic cookware again… the coating is claimed to be toxic chemicals-free. It is safe and yet comfortable so you should handle it carefully. After all, the coating is meant to prevent aluminum leaching to the food you prepare. As long as you use the cookware correctly and avoid scratching or chipping, the ceramic can last to 3 or 5 years ahead. But once you see the sign of wear, you need to replace it. After 5 years, inspect it. If the cookware is still in good condition with no chipping at all, it is possible to keep using it. But if you have spotted a slight sign of wear, you should replace it right away.
What if you use the 100% ceramic product? The manufacturer would pour water and clay mixture to the pre-shaped molds to create the cookware. Afterward, they would be fired in a kiln so the surface will harden. The problem with the traditional method is the result of easily broken and cracked items. But today’s manufacturing process involves advanced techniques that result in the crack and on resistant. Is ceramic cookware healthy? Yes, if you use the 100% products.
Staying Safe
As you can see from the description above, the possibility of ceramic cookware health risks is always there. Even when it is slim, there is no guarantee that your ceramic is 100% safe – unless you use the pure ceramic cookware. But then again, such cookware can be rare and it can be super costly too.
- If you want to stay safe while using ceramic cookware, there are several things to do. First of all, it is best if you can have different kinds of cookware, preferably from reputable and safe items. Investing your money in ceramic, glass, and stainless steel can be a good idea. You can also alternate using them so you won’t overuse each of the cookware.
- Second, always take a look at the labels when you purchase them. Legit items always include information about the materials used in the manufacturing process. If you can’t find the information, just skip the items. They don’t deserve your attention.
- Moreover, you need to realize that the price is equal to quality. Don’t buy those ridiculously dirt cheap items – no matter how good they are (being advertised or claimed). Cheap cookware is generally made from various materials or compounds so they aren’t pure. Moreover, if they use a coating, it is generally thin and not durable.
- Next, you need to follow the proper usage instructions and directions. Reputable manufacturers would usually include such information. Don’t act as you know everything and disregard the proper operational instruction. More importantly, replace the cookware that has been cracked, scratched, or chipped unless they are made from 100% ceramic clay.
So, finally, is ceramic cookware healthy? In general, it is. You need to pay attention to proper use and care. You can only minimize the possibility of damage and replace any worn or damaged cookware. If you have extra money, pure 100% ceramic can be your best option. If not, you still have plenty of other options.