HexClad is non-toxic. Other experts and legal opponents disagree with the claims made by the brand about its non-toxic cookware. Sustainability expert Leigh Matthews writes in LeafScore that HexClad utilizes polytetrafluoroethylene (also known as PTFE) in 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.
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.
“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 is the worst of all worlds. It's less non-stick, it still needs to be replaced after the non-stick surface goes, it shouldn't be used at high heat because you'll create toxic fumes from the non-stick coating AND it's considerably more expensive.
However, sometime in 2024, Hexclad ditched the PTFE 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.”
At normal cooking temperatures, PTFE-coated cookware releases various gases and chemicals that present mild to severe toxicity. Only few studies describe the toxicity of PTFE but without solid conclusions. The toxicity and fate of ingested PTFE coatings are also not understood.
ceramic is among the safest material for pans
From dishes, to glasses, bakeware and cookware, ceramic bakeware is our pick for the best cookware material for health thanks to its non-reactive nature and resistance to high temperatures and acidic foods. Plus it's so pretty!
Then, we removed GreenPan entirely from our list of non-toxic cookware. There were two primary reasons: Competing brands began providing independent laboratory testing to prove their products are non-toxic. We became aware of lawsuits against GreenPan that cast doubt on the company's marketing claims.
“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.
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. At this time, it's the only location where factories are skilled enough to manufacture our technologically advanced cookware.
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.
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.
All-Clad Stainless Bonded Cookware Set
All-Clad's D3 Everyday set came out on top in our testing of stainless steel cookware, which makes these all-metal pots and pans an obvious choice for our favorite non-toxic cookware, too.
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.
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.
What Does Non-Toxic Cookware Mean? Non-toxic cookware is any cookware made without the use of nonstick coatings, like PFAS. This means any cookware that is made of stainless steel, cast iron, or carbon steel—essentially any cookware that doesn't have a coating—is the least toxic product available on the market.
“Glass, like Pyrex cookware, is a safe option,” Perko said. “Cast iron is a safe option if NOT frying or using high-temperature cooking. If you have or can use or purchase stainless steel pots and pans, they are healthier choices for long-term/lifetime use.”
HexClad is non-toxic.
Sustainability expert Leigh Matthews writes in LeafScore that HexClad utilizes polytetrafluoroethylene (also known as PTFE) in its cookware. She writes that PTFE, no matter how it is flavored, is harmful to people, the environment, and pets.
Unless you've been on a social media blackout for the last five years, you've probably heard of HexClad, the maker of the world's coolest pans. The company, which had revenues of almost $400m last year, is part owned by Gordon Ramsay and was included in Oprah Winfrey's coveted list of her Favourite Things.
PTFE, best known by the brand name Teflon™, is typically made using several hazardous PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances) that have polluted drinking water across the globe.
HexClad Skillet Features
It features a tri-ply construction, an aluminum core and a high-grade nonstick coating that's infused with diamond dust (!!!) for extra strength. The steel hexagons allow the heat to diffuse across the pan evenly, while the PFOA-free nonstick coating prevents foods from sticking.
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.
In general, you want to replace nonstick pans after five years.