Are Teflon pans dangerous ?
When non-stick cookware like Teflon pans are heated sufficiently, there is a large possibility that the non-stick coating start to decompose, which then releases any of 15 different toxins. In a study conducted by Environmental Working Group (EWG), the out-gassing begins at 202°C (or 396°F). Such out-gassing is toxic enough to kill birds or cause polymer fume flu (the Teflon flu) in people, which result in malaise, backache, nausea, headache and fever, among other symptoms. Although these symptoms subside within several days, other effects may still show in the long run.
As the pans become hotter, the chemicals being released also become more toxic. Generally, non-stick pans left to preheat reach 371°C (or 700°F) in just a few minutes. At 360°C (or 680°F), Teflon pans start to release small particles of “perflurooctanoic acid” or PFOA, which is used in manufacturing non-stick cookware. PFOA chemicals are dangerous because they don’t break down in the environment or bodies of living things. Studies have shown that high exposure to PFOA caused birth defects and cancer in lab animals as well as human birth defects in two documented cases involving the DuPont Teflon manufacture plant.
According to studies, over 90% of Americans have a small, yet detectable, PFOA amounts in their bloodstream. Aside from Teflon pans, stain repellents, Scotch-guard products, non-stick food packaging and other household products may contain PFOA. The EWG estimates that the PFOA contents in the body could take up to 4 years before they are flushed out of the system.
Because of these PFOA issues, it is best to keep the heat low to medium when using Teflon pans and other nonstick cookware. If you prefer to use other types of cookware, those with porcelain or enamel interiors can be a good alternative. Of course, you can always use aluminum, iron or stainless steel skillets.
