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PTFE non-stick: prevent overheating and surface wear

Identify a PTFE non-stick coating, avoid heating an empty pan and use suitable cooking and cleaning methods while keeping the different risks in perspective.

PTFEnon-stickfrying panmaterial
PTFE non-stick: prevent overheating and surface wear
Original illustration: a schematic drawing to help explain the subject.

PTFE is a polymer found in some non-stick coatings. Check the cookware’s composition: “non-stick” alone does not prove it contains PTFE. For a PTFE surface, avoiding overheating is the main precaution, particularly while the cookware is empty.

Do not heat an empty pan

According to Germany’s Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, BfR, severe overheating of PTFE can release hazardous gases without visible smoke. Avoid heating empty cookware rather than waiting for a visible sign. Induction and gas need particular care because they heat quickly.

Prepare the food before switching on, use moderate heat consistent with the instructions and stay close to the cooking. Do not use very high-temperature searing or blowtorch methods intended for uncoated cookware. Check oven-use conditions separately.

Limit scratches and recognise a damaged layer

The Singapore Food Agency recommends heat-suitable wood, silicone or plastic tools to avoid scratches from metal utensils. After cooling as instructed, clean with soapy water and a soft sponge, without metal pads or abrasives.

Remove a frying pan from use if its coating detaches, flakes or deteriorates badly. BfR distinguishes tiny accidentally swallowed PTFE particles from overheating gases: a scratch alone does not demonstrate poisoning. That is not an invitation to restore a damaged layer by scraping it.

Keep the assessment in its proper scope

Based on the knowledge reviewed, BfR expects no adverse health effects from correct use without overheating. This conclusion is not a general assessment of the environmental impact of PFAS. Intended use and maintenance also matter when choosing cookware.

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PTFE non-stick: prevent overheating and surface wear

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