Reason #1: Lecithin in Cooking Sprays Causes a Sticky Residue. Nonstick cooking sprays aren't just oil in a spray bottle; they typically contain at least one type of oil plus an emulsifier, such as lecithin. Lecithin causes problems for nonstick cookware.
While PAM Cooking Spray is a classic and convenient option, Avocado Oil Cooking Spray offers a healthier and more sustainable alternative. As consumers, we have the power to make a positive impact through the choices we make.
Place your baking dish in a larger baking pan & squeeze soap dish over it plus a couple of handfuls of baking soda then add hot water to cover the dirty baking dish. Let it soak for an hour of so then just scrub with a brush & that's it!
Cooking sprays contain lecithin which is an emulsifier that helps to prevent sticking in addition to the oil so it is used in professional kitchens on things like sizzle platters when flashing fish in the oven.
Butter and grease
“I personally don't use cooking spray but instead use avocado oil or tallow to coat the pan or baking dish,” she explains. “If needed as it melts I spread it out with a paper towel.”
In normal doses, lecithin may cause side effects. These can include stomach aches, diarrhea, or loose stools. It isn't known what symptoms would occur if you take too much lecithin. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should talk to their healthcare providers before taking any supplements.
For the best results, it's recommended that you use one part vinegar to two parts water. Simmer: Once the mixture is added, put your pan on the stove and bring it to a simmer. Cool down: Once the residue appears to be gone, remove the pan from heat and allow it to cool down.
Water spots can be avoided by thoroughly drying your cookware after washing. However, if a water spot does appear, you can wipe the surface of your pan with distilled white vinegar. Avoid other types of vinegar as they contain additives that can harm the nonstick coating.
Nonstick surfaces: While it might seem like extra insurance, using cooking spray on nonstick pans can lead to a buildup of residue, potentially compromising the effectiveness of the nonstick coating. A small amount of butter or oil is recommended instead.
Avocado oil is a top pick among experts for frying. "Looking at the smoke points of nontropical plant oils and looking at which one is healthiest, what stands out to me is avocado oil," says Mok. Avocado oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, specifically, oleic acid, says Mok.
It's oil derived from avocados, is high in monosaturated fats, which is the good, healthy kind of fat. Not only that, it also has a really high smoke point.
Wear and tear on your pan: The ingredients in nonstick cooking sprays, especially the propellants and additives, can be harsh on the delicate surface of nonstick pans. With regular use, they can start breaking down the coating, shortening the life of your pan.
Our favorite traditional cooking spray is Pam Original Cooking Spray. It contains propellants and emulsifiers that help it perform well. If you often use high heat to cook or would prefer to use a cooking spray that contains just oil and no other ingredients, we recommend Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Spray.
Be Careful with olive oil
Please remember that olive oil, extra virgin olive oil, butter and oil sprays quickly start to smoke and burn when the pan is hot. This causes carbonization of the pan, which can damage the non-stick layer.
Here's how to do that without damaging the coating of your pan. Mix together a 1:1 ratio (we suggest roughly 2 tablespoons each) of white vinegar and baking soda, then gently scrub with a sponge or dishcloth to create a paste.
Apply a 1/2 mug of white vinegar into the pan, then add hot water until it's about 2/3rds full. Once you have filled the pan, turn on the stove and let the liquid simmer for five minutes. Turn off the stove and place a paper towel in the pan to soak in the remaining residue and caked-on grease.
Your ceramic pan is durable but not indestructible. Using abrasive pads or harsh chemical cleaners can erode the non-stick coating over time. Stick to mild dish soap and soft cleaning tools to preserve its surface.
Never use spray oils — including aerosols, mist, and pump sprays — with ceramic nonstick cookware, because small spray droplets will heat up quickly and carbonize easily on the nonstick surface. If you do end up with sticky spots, you can get rid of them with a melamine sponge and a bit of warm water.
Side effects of lecithin
If you have soy or egg allergies, you should carefully check the origin of your lecithin supplements to minimize your risk of allergic reactions. Lecithin is found in many products that are common in the American diet. Lecithin that naturally occurs in food has no risk.
Lecithins are mixtures of glycerophospholipids including phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylserine, and phosphatidic acid. Lecithin was first isolated in 1845 by the French chemist and pharmacist Théodore Gobley. In 1850, he named the phosphatidylcholine lécithine.
Lecithin helps to emulsify fats, making them easier to digest and absorb. When lecithin is consumed, it can help to break down fats in the stomach and small intestine. This can reduce the feeling of heaviness or discomfort after consuming fatty foods.