All articles tagged with #nonstick pans
"Teflon flu," or polymer fume fever, is a flu-like illness linked to fumes from overheated nonstick pans coated with PTFE, a type of PFAS. Over 3,600 cases have been reported in the U.S. over the past two decades, with 267 cases last year. Experts advise using nonstick pans as directed to avoid exposure to harmful fumes.
A study has found that a small crack in the Teflon surface of nonstick pans can release over 9,000 tiny plastic particles, raising concerns about food contamination and potential health risks. Teflon is made from chemicals known as PFAS, which are considered "forever chemicals" as they do not break down. While the FDA classifies Teflon as safe, there is evidence that exposure to PFAS can have adverse health effects. Some scientists believe that having microscopic plastic particles in the bloodstream is a cause for concern. As a result, some individuals are opting for alternative cookware options such as ceramic, carbon steel, and cast iron.