1. Non-stick pots and pans



Non-stick pots and pans are at the top of the list of dangers, but many people still choose them because they are convenient and popular.

Thanks to the PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) coating on the surface, these utensils do not stick to food when cooking. However, when exposed to temperatures above 300 degrees Celsius, PTFE begins to release toxins, and people infected will have flu-like symptoms, known as Teflon flu. This toxin can even be fatal to pet birds.

Some non-stick pots and pans also contain PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), which is linked to certain cancers such as breast, prostate, and ovarian cancer. Although PFOA is present in non-stick products in small amounts that are not dangerous to humans, it is also present in many other everyday items, so you should limit your exposure to it.

Some nonstick cookware is PTFE-only and PFOA-free (like granite), but it is only safe while the coating is intact. Once the coating is chipped, the pan should be discarded.

Alternatives:

You can use cast iron. This is a safe, durable, heat-retaining pan that you can practice nonsticking. Cast iron does not release any toxic substances into your food, making it a natural way to increase your iron levels.

2. Aluminum Pans and Aluminum Foil



Aluminum is a widely used material in cooking because it is readily available, durable, lightweight, flexible, and recyclable. However, high aluminum levels have been linked to several diseases of the central nervous system, including Alzheimer's and ALS. Although aluminum pans often have a coating on the outside, the coating is prone to chipping, releasing toxic metals into food.

Alternatives:

Glass pots and pans, which will never release anything toxic when heated, are durable, environmentally friendly, and do not retain the taste of previously cooked food. The only downside is that they are not non-stick.

3. Copper pots and pans



Copper is beautiful and conducts heat well, helping food heat quickly and evenly, but it can also be dangerous to human health. Like some other heavy metals, copper is necessary for human health in small amounts. However, if there is an excess of copper in the body, you can suffer from heavy metal poisoning. When copper cookware is not coated on the outside, it can release copper into acidic dishes. If copper is coated on the outside, it is usually nickel, which is another toxic element.

Alternatives:

Stainless steel pots and pans. This is a great option: durable, relatively lightweight, scratch-resistant, and can be nonstick if used properly. Just make sure you buy the right food-grade stainless steel - one that doesn't contain nickel or chromium.


4. Enamel-coated ceramic pots and pans



Enamel-coated ceramic looks great. Ceramic is generally safe, but the enamel coating on the outside can contain toxic substances. Ceramic coatings are not durable and often scratch after a few months of use. When they do, the lead and cadmium in the coating will leach into your food and then into your body. Lead poisoning is one of the most dangerous types of metal poisoning and can lead to stomach aches, headaches, infertility, and other complications.

Alternatives:

Use 100% pure ceramic cookware. This is one of the best and safest options because it is made of all-natural, non-toxic materials and will not chip. This utensil is non-stick, easy to clean in the dishwasher and very durable. The only downside is the cost.