answersLogoWhite

0

At high temperatures cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can break apart and emits toxic particles and gases. The fumes can sick people, but pet birds are even more sensitive. In cases of "Teflon toxicosis," as the bird poisonings are called, the lungs of exposed birds hemorrhage and fill with blood, leading to suffocation. DuPont studies show that the fumes can also sicken people, a condition called "polymer fume fever." The government has not assessed human health risks or the incidence of polymer fume fever from kitchen exposures to these particles and gases when pans are overheated.

Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (perfluorooctanoate), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. These exposures are more likely to come from stain- and grease-proof coatings on furniture, clothing, and food packaging.

Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated. While EWG continues to track the changes in manufacturing practices for non-stick cookware, we highly recommend stainless steel and cast iron as great alternatives to non-stick cooking surface.

Source: http://www.ewg.org/EWGFAQ#

User Avatar

Wiki User

15y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

Why were improvements made for teflon?

When a pan is coated with teflon, the coating prevents food from sticking to then pan making it easier to clean the pan after use, even when the food is burnt and would otherwise stick to the pan.


Can you put a Teflon pan in the oven for baking?

Yes, you can put a Teflon pan in the oven for baking as long as the temperature does not exceed 500 degrees Fahrenheit.


How does Teflon adhere to a pan surface to create a non-stick coating?

Teflon adheres to a pan surface through a process called bonding. The non-stick coating is applied to the pan and then heated to a high temperature, causing the Teflon molecules to bond with the surface of the pan. This creates a smooth and durable coating that prevents food from sticking to the pan.


What happens if you put ice in a frying pan with oil?

The ice will cause the oil to erupt and splash out of the pan, causing severe burns or a fire.


What is so special about pan coated with Teflon?

Teflon can form a non-stick coating, resistant to chemicals and heat.


What is so special about a pan coated with Teflon?

Teflon can form a non-stick coating, resistant to chemicals and heat.


If nothing ever sticks to Teflon how do they make Teflon stick to the pan?

First of all, plenty of stuff sticks to Teflon. I think it's sprayed on in molten form


Why doesnt food stick to a non stick frying pan?

Teflon! :)


Should you grease a teflon cake pan?

Yes because you don't want to take the chance of it sticking to the pan.


What is the chemical used in non stick frying pan?

Teflon which is florocarbon polymer


Why has Teflon been useful?

isnt it a fry pan? if it is it helps us cook.


Can a Teflon pan go in the oven?

Yes, a Teflon pan can go in the oven up to a certain temperature, typically around 500 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to check the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure safe use in the oven.