If youve ever struggled to make eggs in a stainless-steel pan or discarded too many failed crêpes, you know how important nonstick pans are in any kitchen. While not ideal for every cooking project, their slick surfaces are essential when preparing particularly delicate dishes.
But for every nonstick super-fan, there are at least two skeptics. Youve likely heard horror stories about the dangers of nonstick pans. And theyre not entirely unfounded. Multiple studies found that the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (or PFAS) used in older nonstick pans had links to cancer.
And as if that wasnt scary enough, many people have argued that PFAS and other dangerous chemicals were present in higher levels when nonstick pans were scratched through regular use.
Since a federal ruling in 2013, those compounds are now prohibited in all American-made nonstick cookware. And many brands adapted by introducing less dangerous methods for slick surfaces. Even still, some still say that scratched pans present health risks. So we decided to do some digging.
The answer is yes, it is safe to use a scratched Calphalon pan. The scratches do not affect the performance of the pan or the food that you cook in it.
So, Should I Keep Using A Scratched Pan?
No. While they dont necessarily present a safety concern, you still shouldnt hold onto your scratched nonstick pans. If the scratches are fresh, you may end up with flakes of the coating in your food—which we can all agree is not delicious.
It can also impact how effective your pans nonstick abilities are. Scratches, high heat, and general wear and tear will wear down the slick coating on the surface of your pan. And depending on how frequently you use it and how well you maintain it, a brand new pan can lose its nonstick abilities in just a year or two.
Unlike products made out of cast iron and stainless steel, nonstick pans arent meant to stay with you forever. And if yours already has a few scratches, then its definitely time to part ways.
Is My Scratched Nonstick Pan Dangerous?
Most likely not. But there are some caveats. The answer will depend on which pan youre using. If youre using an old hand-me-down pan or your cookware is from a brand made outside the United States, there is a significantly higher likelihood that its made with dangerous chemicals.
Another important factor is the type of cooking youre doing with your nonstick pan. Products with measurable amounts of PFAS have can release harmful chemicals into the air when heated past 500°F. So, if youre searing steaks at high heat or preheating your pan on high for prolonged periods of time, you could be inviting unwelcome fumes into your home.
For those of us that are using newer models of nonstick cookware made in the United States, health risks associated with scratches are unlikely.
Nonstick Pan Safety ANSWERS
FAQ
Will Calphalon replace scratched pans?
When should I throw away Calphalon?
Is it OK to use scratched non-stick pans?
Is Calphalon coating coming off safe?
Are Calphalon pans safe if scratched?
No cookware is safe when scratched. This is especially true for non-stick cookware like Calphalon hard-anodized nonstick cookware. Scratching will allow chemicals and metals to leach into food causing it to become unsafe. When should I throw away my Calphalon pans?
Is Calphalon non-stick coating safe?
It is completely safe, posing no health concerns whatsoever. Plus, Calphalon coats its cooking surfaces with non-stick material, so food will never contact the hard-anodized aluminum. But what about the safety of the non-stick coating? Calphalon claims it is completely safe, but is that true?
Are Calphalon pans toxic?
When properly used and maintained, the Calphalon pan is not toxic and safe to use for cooking. To maintain the stability of the cookware, avoid using scratchy sponges or abrasive when cleaning. To remove food residue, you can gently wipe it with dishwashing soap. Soak the pan in warm water to remove difficult bits.
Are Calphalon cookware safe?
To ensure the safety of your Calphalon cookware, here’s a list of precautions to take when using it: Don’t preheat empty non-stick cookware. It can get extremely hot quickly. Always place liquid or food in the pan to absorb excess heat. Keep your cooktop on low to medium heat. High heat is only necessary for boiling.