Toxic substances in pots and pans: how to recognize them

The truth beneath the lid

Good cooking starts with a clean slate – and a clean pan. But did you know some pots and pans hide more secrets than your mother-in-law’s family recipe? Time to really check those toxic coatings on your (frying) pan.

What’s actually in your pan?

Many traditional non-stick pots and pans contain substances like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which you’d rather not have on your plate – or in your blood. These substances make pots and pans nice and smooth, but they don’t break down in your body. Or in the environment. Yep, those are the forever chemicals you’d rather say goodbye to sooner rather than later.

PFAS – the uninvited guest in your kitchen

PFAS can be released when heated and settle into your food. They’re linked to all sorts of scary things: from hormonal disruptions to an increased risk of cancer. Not exactly the spice you wanted to add, right?

Marketing trick or really safe?

Sometimes it seems like a pan promises roses and sunshine: “free of PFOA!” sounds pretty good, but often that just means one of the many PFAS has been removed. The rest? They’re still in there. Don’t be fooled by half-truths and marketing fluff.

How to spot a pan with toxic substances

• Watch out for terms like “PTFE”, “Teflon” or “non-stick” without further explanation – there’s often a slick story behind that.
• If the label says nothing about the materials used? Chances are they have something to hide.
• Does your pan smell strangely chemical the first time you use it? That’s not a ‘new scent’ – that’s a reason to worry.
• Check if there’s a certificate from a lab. Don’t just trust marketing talk, but test results.

What are the safe alternatives?

Goodbye Teflon, hello future! Materials like cast iron, stainless steel and aluminum are the heroes in your kitchen. They’re durable, PFAS-free, and make cooking a party again without any aftertaste.

Why Cook & Pan makes the difference

At Cook & Pan we don’t do chemical compromises. Our pots and pans are completely free of toxic substances, with coatings you’ll want to lick your fingers (and your conscience) for. Safe for you, your kids, your guests you love to cook for, and the planet. And yes, they also look amazing on your stove.

The style of clean cooking

Our collection proves you don’t have to choose between design and health. Our colorful pots and pans are the eye-catcher of your kitchen and your lifestyle. Because who says healthy has to be boring?

Checklist: how to choose a pan without junk

• Choose brands that are open about their material use (like us!)
• Go for natural or ceramic coatings, without PFAS or PTFE
• Avoid cheap ‘non-stick’ pots and pans from dubious sources
• Read reviews and check if the claims really hold up

Proof on paper: check the certificate

A pan can shine beautifully and promise to be “free of everything” – without proof it’s just a slick story. Want to be really sure your pan contains no toxic substances? Then see if the brand has an independent certificate from a recognized laboratory.

At Cook & Pan we leave no room for doubt. Our products are tested by third parties and proudly carry the QIMA Certificate of Conformity. No secret ingredients, no toxic surprises – just black-on-white proof that you’re cooking safely.
So, do yourself a favor: don’t just trust marketing talk, but test results. And if your pan can’t show a certificate? Then it should go straight back to the shelves.

A small change, big difference

Every meal you prepare without toxic substances is a win for your health. And with Cook & Pan that choice becomes not only easy but stylish too. Because taking good care of yourself starts in the pan – and ends on your plate.

Dare to cook without compromises

Safe, stylish and toxin-free – that’s what Cook & Pan stands for. Time to say goodbye to questionable Teflon friends and switch to pots and pans that share your values. Ready to really cook clean?