A single scratch can make your nonstick pan dangerous - get rid of it

Most people think that it is safe to use nonstick cookware even if its coating is missing in some spots. Studies show that even a small scratch on the surface of a nonstick pan could release toxic fumes that are harmful to health. According to research conducted by the Global Centre for Environmental Remediation, a scratch on the Teflon coating could release more than 9,000 nano particles, which are toxic and could lead to severe health problems.

Meanwhile, a research group based in Australia has developed an algorithm to calculate the molecules released by nonstick cookware. Using molecular imaging in combination with this method, the researchers found that a scratch on a nonstick pan could release up to 2.3 million microplastic and nanoplastic particles within a single cooking session.

Until 2013, nonstick cookware was made using a chemical substance called perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). It was discovered that those who regularly used such cookware suffered from kidney diseases and testicular cancer. However, now, polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are mostly used to make nonstick cookware. If ingested or inhaled, PFAS could lead to liver illness, chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancer.

The Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) has recently issued a warning about cooking in nonstick cookware. Toxic fumes can be released from the coating when nonstick cookware is heated above 170°C. Inhaling these fumes can cause respiratory illnesses, thyroid problems, and even severe diseases like cancer. ICMR also warns that these fumes might contaminate the food cooked in nonstick cookware.

Nonstick cookware is harmful to the environment too. ICMR recommends using ceramic, clay, and cast-iron cookware instead of nonstick pans and pots.

Discarding nonstick cookware
Nonstick cookware shouldn’t be used on high heat as it can damage the coating. Besides, scratches may appear while cleaning or due to prolonged usage. It should be discarded as soon as you notice these scratches. Even if there aren’t any visible scratches on the surface, nonstick cookware should be replaced every five years. In recent years, PFOA has been eliminated from most cookware production. However, nonstick cookware manufactured before 2015 may still contain PFOA, which is harmful to health.

Besides, do not continue using nonstick cookware if you notice any change in its shape or colour. Moreover, if dosa or chapati sticks to the pan, it's a sign that it's time to replace your nonstick pan.