Cookware

We've Got Big News About Nonstick

Introducing our new commitment to you—and a partnership with Our Place.

by:
November 21, 2024

Starting today, we will be moving away from PFAS-based chemically coated nonstick cookware and bakeware. It’s become abundantly clear through scientific research that many coated nonstick cookware and bakeware contains harmful forever chemicals (PFAS) that can contaminate the foods we eat. With regular use, these coatings are also known to lose their nonstick qualities, which leads to a constant cycle of disappointment and consumption. While these coatings are regulated in other countries, and some American states are beginning to institute better oversight, we’ve chosen to take action as an independent retailer.

“We are proud to make this change as part of our ongoing commitment to transparency around the products we sell,” says Jojo Feld, GM of Food52. “Phasing out nonstick cookware and bakeware that contain forever chemicals is an important part of that.”

In line with this change, we’re introducing our partnership with Our Place, creators of the Titanium Always Pan Pro, a toxin-free, constructed—not coated—pan that is nonstick no matter what level of heat you use.

This is just the first step. We’re going to be looking at ways to avoid forever chemicals in the products we sell, and we'll also be developing educational content around other cookware materials (stainless steel, carbon steel, copper, etc.) to help our community feel comfortable knowing what cookware to use, how and when to use it, and how to care for it so it retains its nonstick properties. For the time being, we'll continue to offer ceramic nonstick options, as ceramic nonstick is widely considered non-toxic, and there are innovations in the works to extend its lifespan. As we learn about these new developments, we’ll continue to update you on any further changes that we make to our offerings.


What's your favorite thing to make in nonstick skillets? Share your favorites in the comments below!

See what other Food52 readers are saying.

  • Wendy Berloe-Buch
    Wendy Berloe-Buch
  • robinorig
    robinorig
  • Lincolnish
    Lincolnish
Food52 (we cook 52 weeks a year, get it?) is a food and home brand, here to help you eat thoughtfully and live joyfully.

3 Comments

Wendy B. December 9, 2024
This is wonderful. I applaud your commitment and the opportunity you are giving your customers to find healthy choices. I’m going first for utensils and will be watching for more.
THANK YOU
 
robinorig November 22, 2024
I'm glad to see you taking this direction. I've been doing a deep dive into PFAS and microplastic exposure and trying to rid myself of items that contain these chemicals and surfaces. I was really disappointed to find out that one of my favorite pans that I got on your site (Zwilling Madura 11") is actually teflon coated by another name. ( "DURA-SLIDE™ coating system integrates one of many wear resistant thermal sprayed coatings with a topcoat of PTFE." PTFE = Teflon.) I love the size and deep depth of the pan so hope you will come up with an alternative. I hope you will also look into plastic products now considered unhealthy, like plastic cutting boards and also silicone, which may not be as safe as we've been lead to believe (I have this on talking to some of the scientists researching this) although maybe a little better than teflon and pfas non-stick.
 
Lincolnish November 22, 2024
Thank you for taking the lead on this important issue! Yet another reason to love Food52.