HexClad cookware currently uses a proprietary TerraBond™ ceramic non-stick coating, which the company states is completely free of PFAS and PTFE "forever chemicals".
HexClad cookware is PFOA-free, but it depends on the specific line you own. Traditional lines use a PTFE-based coating, while newer releases utilize a PFAS-free ceramic surface.
The HexClad cookware controversy primarily centers on deceptive advertising regarding the "non-toxic" nature of its hybrid non-stick pans and a subsequent class-action lawsuit over their use of PTFE (often associated with "forever chemicals").
To its credit, Hexclad ditched the PTFE in 2024/25 and began offering the same pans just with a “high-grade proprietary ceramic nonstick called TerraBond™, which is PTFE-free and free from forever chemicals.”
The least toxic non-stick pans are pure ceramic (100% ceramic) or ceramic-coated cookware that are free from PFAS, PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. For those willing to learn a few temperature tricks, cast iron and stainless steel are naturally non-toxic and become non-stick with use.
To protect your health, avoid cookware that leaches heavy metals, contains toxic coatings, or breaks down under heat. Prioritize safer everyday alternatives like cast iron, carbon steel, and glass.
In family kitchens, non-stick pans are the first choice for many housewives and cooking enthusiasts because of their easy cleaning and anti-stick properties. However, professional chefs rarely use non-stick pans in kitchens, preferring stainless steel, cast iron or carbon steel pans.
Will my HexClad pans scratch? Yes, even a diamond can scratch! Metal spatulas, whisks, spoons, and other metal utensils are fine, but sharp utensils could leave a scratch. If this happens it is only cosmetic, and it will not affect the performance or safety of the cookware.
While there is no immediate medical treatment or magic pill to "flush" PFAS out overnight, your body eliminates them naturally over time through bodily functions like urination, sweating, and blood loss (such as menstruation).
Consumer studies and independent laboratory testing have found that Ziploc brand bags do not contain detectable levels of PFAS ("forever chemicals").
People often dislike HexClad primarily because it carries a premium price tag but acts as a "hybrid" with conflicting traits: you get the sticking of stainless steel and the eventual lifespan of a non-stick pan.
Even modern non-stick pans, typically labeled “PFOA-free,” may still release ultrafine plastics at high heat or contain PTFE. According to research, 79% of non-stick pans tested in 2023 were coated with PTFE, and PFAS exposure continues to concern toxicologists and cancer specialists.
HexClad agreed to a $2.5 million class action settlement to resolve claims that it falsely advertised its cookware as "non-toxic," "metal utensil safe," and free from PFAS and PFOA.
HexClad pans are generally considered safe under normal cooking conditions (below 500°F). However, they feature a hybrid non-stick surface containing PTFE. If overheated, the coating can release toxic fumes. Health experts advise against them for high-heat searing and caution users to avoid metal utensils to prevent microplastics from scratching into food.
Stainless steel cookware is widely regarded as safe and non-toxic for everyday use. Stainless steel non-toxic cookware is a durable, corrosion-resistant alloy that's practical for a wide range of cooking tasks. By preheating your stainless steel pan and using a bit of oil you can help prevent food from sticking.
Common types of PFAS found in cookware may be identified as PTFE, PFOA, PFOS, and GenX. This may not be clearly identifiable with some cookware brands, so it is important to consult the manufacturer to obtain this information if not easy to find on the packaging or owner's manual.
Does Chick-fil-A's packaging contain PFAS? Products with oil and grease resistant coatings containing PFAS were fully phased out chainwide in the summer of 2022.
PFAS are generally considered more dangerous than microplastics. While both are widespread "forever pollutants," PFAS are toxic at extremely low levels and are definitively linked to severe, confirmed health issues. Microplastics are physically invasive, but their direct health effects on humans are still being studied.
In the meantime, an article was recently published in ScienceNews entitled, "Gut microbes may flush 'forever chemicals' from the body". Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that certain bacterial strains, including E. coli, soaked up between 20% and 75% of PFAS in laboratory dishes.
So, are Hex Clad pans safe to cook with? HexClad states that its pans are PFOA-free and do not release toxic fumes, even at high heat. However, like many hybrid non-stick surfaces, the pans still contain a PTFE-based coating (commonly known as Teflon), which may degrade at very high temperatures (above 500°F).
Symptoms of Teflon flu or polymer fume fever include chills, fever, fatigue, headache, body aches, and occasional chest tightness and airway irritation. People with underlying lung diseases such as asthma are more likely to develop respiratory symptoms.
Cast iron excels at high-heat searing and lifelong durability, requiring careful seasoning to build a natural non-stick surface. Ceramic is naturally non-stick, lightweight, and easy to clean out of the box, but its coating can degrade or chip after a few years of heavy use.
Michelin-starred chefs use a mix of commercial-grade and high-end consumer cookware. Their everyday workhorses depend heavily on culinary needs, but they almost universally prioritize the following types of pans:
AMT Gastroguss - Quality cookware you'll reach for every day
It's even been dubbed the "world's best pan" by VKD, the largest German Chefs Association. Talk about non-stick all-stars! AMT Gastroguss products have an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 245 reviews. 95% of customers would recommend.
The healthiest non-stick pans feature ceramic coatings (a sand-based, sol-gel finish free of PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium) or are completely uncoated cast iron and carbon steel. These materials eliminate exposure to toxic "forever chemicals" (PFAS) that can off-gas at high heat.