No, current HexClad cookware does not use Teflon (PTFE).
Quick Answer: Under normal cooking conditions (below 500 °F), HexClad's pans are considered non‑toxic. Their raised stainless steel “peaks” protect a PFAS‑free ceramic coating (TerraBond™), while a very thin PTFE layer beneath is lab‑tested for PFOA, PFOS, and other PFAS compounds.
HexClad officially transitioned away from using PTFE coatings in early 2024.
Our cookware products use our proprietary HEXCLAD TERRABOND™ ceramic nonstick coating, which is PTFE-free and PFAS-free.
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").
Yes, Gordon Ramsay is a paid partner and official investor in HexClad. While he is extensively involved in promoting the brand—using the cookware on his shows, in his cookbooks, and endorsing it for home use—commercial kitchens require heavier-duty, traditional materials.
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.
The safest, least toxic cookware includes 100% pure ceramic, cast iron, carbon steel, and high-quality stainless steel. These materials are naturally free from PTFE, PFOA, PFAS, and heavy metals. If you want non-stick properties without the chemicals, PFAS-free ceramic-coated options are the best alternatives.
HexClad pans combine stainless steel and non-stick surfaces, but come with notable drawbacks. Key cons include a very steep price tag, lackluster non-stick performance compared to dedicated non-stick pans, staining, and controversy regarding prior PTFE marketing.
Ceramic pans are free of PFAS, PTFE, and PFOA—so they're safer for you and the environment[1][2][3][4]. They hold up to heat and daily use, outperforming Teflon in pretty much every durability study[4][6]. If you're serious about healthier, more reliable cooking, switching to ceramic just makes sense.
In fact, most studies show that PTFE is not bioavailable, meaning it does not accumulate in the body or leach into the environment in the same way as more volatile PFAS chemicals.
HexClad and All-Clad are both premium brands, but they serve different cooking styles. HexClad features a hybrid stainless-steel/nonstick mesh designed for searing and metal utensil use. All-Clad offers traditional, specialized nonstick lines that prioritize foolproof, effortless food release and delicate cooking.
Non-stick pans may be an ideal choice in home kitchens, but in professional commercial kitchens, their safety, heat resistance, service life and cooking effect limitations make them unpopular with chefs.
The safest non-stick frying pans use chemical-free ceramic coatings or naturally seasoned cast iron/carbon steel. Top ceramic picks include the Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Fry Pan (approx. $125) and the Our Place Always Pan 2.0 (approx. $95). Both completely avoid toxic PFAS, PTFE, lead, and cadmium.
The lawsuit against HexClad is a false advertising class action over claims that its cookware was "PFAS-free," "PFOA-free," and "non-toxic," despite allegedly containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS or "forever chemicals") and PTFE.
HexClad and GreenPan represent two different approaches to nonstick cooking. HexClad is a metal-utensil-safe hybrid pan built for high-heat searing, while GreenPan is a ceramic-coated, eco-friendly pan designed for delicate foods and chemical-free cooking.
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.
Whether ceramic is "better" depends on what you value most. Ceramic is the healthier, eco-friendly choice, while Teflon (traditional nonstick) is more durable and offers better long-term slickness.
It's endorsed by Chef Ramsay, who says that HexClad is his go-to, both at home and in professional kitchens. As a former recipe editor and trained cook, I've used a lot of cookware brands, but HexClad stands out.
Avoid traditional non-stick pans with worn coatings or synthetic "forever chemicals" (PFAS), as well as unlined copper and reactive aluminum. Scratched or overheated pans release toxic fumes or leach heavy metals into your food.
Comparing HexClad and Le Creuset is like comparing an electric sports car to a vintage cast-iron Dutch oven; they serve entirely different purposes in the kitchen. The best choice depends on what you cook most and how much maintenance you are willing to handle.
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.
Yes, you can absolutely ruin a HexClad pan. While they are built with a raised steel lattice designed to protect the underlying non-stick coating, they are not indestructible.
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.