Is HexClad cookware safe? HexClad describes its nonstick coating as a "Japanese coating infused with diamond dust." The company states that its pans are PFOA-free, though they do contain PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), commonly known by the brand name Teflon.
Does HexClad have Teflon in it? Teflon is a proprietary brand of PTFE made by Chemours that is not used by HexClad. Instead, the brand now uses ceramic to coat the nonstick valleys of its cookware.
HexClad Cookware advertises its nonstick pans as free from harmful chemicals. But, according to recent reports, HexClad may be using a chemical compound called PTFE as a non-stick coating on its pans. PTFE is a type of PFA, or “forever” chemical, that can build up in the human body and does not break down over time.
One set of pans that has never made the Leaf Score cut comes from Hexclad. Based on the PTFE coating on these pans, we figured it unlikely that Hexclad would ever earn a spot in our rankings. However, in 2024, Hexclad seems to have quietly changed its coating to remove PTFE and use ceramic instead.
Essentially, the only difference lies in the name. PTFE is the shortened name of the chemical polytetrafluoroethylene, and Teflon is the trade name of the same polymer. If you are looking for a highly flexible, non-stick material that is chemical, electrical and thermal resistant, look no further than PTFE.
And when PTFE coatings overheat, they can produce fumes that are deadly to small birds and may be harmful to humans as well. You could describe this occurrence as “the canary in the kitchen,” Peaslee says. In addition, PFAS in pots and pans pose risks even if the chemicals don't migrate directly into our bodies.
Not exactly, but it's definitely under the microscope. While Teflon itself isn't banned, the chemicals used in its production, like PFOA, have faced restrictions due to health concerns. The EU is working on broader regulations to limit PFAS, which includes Teflon's main component, PTFE.
“HexClad's intriguing look, design, and hybrid technology caught my eye about a year ago,” says Gordon Ramsay. “I use the pans at home, and the combination of stainless steel and non-stick functionality is amazing. It's highly versatile and cooks exceptionally well.
Don't: Assume that high heat is best.
HexClad pans do best over low to medium heat. High heat can cause oil to burn and cause build up on your pans. This can make the pans harder to clean.
Remember that HexClad pans work best when they're used over low and medium heat, rather than high heat. That's because HexClad's hybrid design distributes heat faster and more evenly. High heat might cause food to stick, disturbing the seasoning.
“The most nontoxic cookware that you can buy is stainless steel, cast iron or carbon steel; things that don't have a coating on them,” says Alexis Pisciotta, culinary purchasing and events manager and cookware consultant for Food Network.
HexClad says its pans are designed to last a whole lifetime, which is backed by the manufacturer's lifetime warranty for defects. However, it does make clear that the warranty doesn't cover damage incurred by improper care or use – so it's worth making a note of the care and cleaning instructions advised by the brand.
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.
You do not need to season your pans before every use. To season your pans properly: Heat your pan on medium-low. Spread 1 teaspoon of Vegetable, Avocado, or Olive Oil around the interior of the pan.
PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is a polymer used to make coatings of kitchen utensils non-stick. It is more commonly known as Teflon™. PFOA is a chemical substance that was used in the past as an additive for the production of PTFE.
Our products are designed in Los Angeles and South Korea. Like the vast majority of cookware and other products today, our products are manufactured in China.
Is HexClad cookware safe? HexClad describes its nonstick coating as a "Japanese coating infused with diamond dust." The company states that its pans are PFOA-free, though they do contain PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), commonly known by the brand name Teflon.
Cooking with high temperatures can cause a build up of burnt residue to occur. Don't worry, this is not uncommon with our pans, and there is a quick fix. To deep clean your HexClad Cookware, we recommend using a neutral pH cleanser with a soft sponge and lukewarm water.
Key Takeaways. Non-Toxic Composition: HexClad cookware is free from harmful chemicals like PFOA, ensuring a safer cooking environment by preventing toxic substances from leaching into your food.
Top Brand: GreenPan
Bobby Flay and GreenPan thought of everything. These pans are crafted from professional grade tri-ply stainless steel and feature a powerful aluminum core for incredible durability, faster heating, and no hot spots. This clad stainless steel collection is the best of both worlds.
While both synthetic chemicals are classified as PFAS and share a number of properties, PTFE is broadly considered safe to use. PFOA, on the other hand, has been declared carcinogenic to humans by the World Health Organisation.
Plus, it's oven-safe up to 500 degrees. Perfect for deep frying, braising, poaching, and is large enough to roast a whole chicken.
Note: As of January 2024, substances containing PFAS are no longer being sold into the U.S. market for food contact use as grease-proofers and their associated authorizations have been revoked by the FDA due to abandonment.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer reviewed the research on PTFE, and determined the current data was inconclusive with regard to PTFE's potential to cause cancer. However, a wide-ranging literature has linked PFOA, which can be a contaminant of PTFE-containing consumer products, to health effects.
There is little doubt that PTFE coatings that are made using PFAS substances will eventually be eliminated, but it is imperative that the industry continues to educate and advocate for a cautious, gradual approach.