Which is healthier, cast iron or ceramic?

Author: Miss Shaina Ruecker PhD  |  Last update: Monday, May 5, 2025

Without non-stick coatings, ceramic cookware is also free of PFAS like perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and other harmful chemicals. When comparing a cast iron pan versus ceramic cookware, ceramic is the healthier choice.

Is cast iron healthier than ceramic?

The non-stick surface of ceramic cookware also allows for healthier cooking with less oil or fat compared to stainless steel or cast iron. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to reduce their fat intake without sacrificing flavor or cooking performance.

What is the healthiest cookware to use?

Materials like stainless steel, cast iron, and ceramic are excellent choices because they do not leach harmful chemicals into your food. Additionally, non-toxic nonstick coatings like ceramic or titanium provide a safer alternative to traditional nonstick pans.

Is ceramic the healthiest cookware?

The short answer is yes: there is no Teflon used in its production. Ceramic provides a natural non-stick surface without the use of toxic chemicals in its production. In fact, we take pride in our 100% non-toxic cookware.

Are cast iron pans the healthiest?

Cooking with cast iron can increase iron intake, potentially benefiting iron-deficiency anemia. However, frying in cast iron can lead to the formation of trans fats. Teflon (PTFE) coating in nonstick cookware has raised health concerns due to the release of toxic gases and chemicals at normal cooking temperatures.

I Tested The Best Non-Toxic Pans (So You Don't Have To)

Is it OK to cook in cast iron everyday?

Cast iron is not only safe for everyday cooking but also offers several health benefits. When properly seasoned, the surface becomes virtually non-stick, reducing the need for excessive oil or fats in cooking.

What pans to stay away from?

Based on this list, it is best to avoid Teflon and other nonstick pans, especially those made with either PTFE or PFOA, as well as aluminum pots and pans.

What cookware is 100% non-toxic?

“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.

Do professional chefs use ceramic cookware?

The answer to whether ceramic or stainless is better is, simply, both—for different applications. Stainless cookware is preferred by both home and professional chefs, while ceramic has remained mostly an at-home cookware option.

Is HexClad worth it?

You can find nonstick cookware at much lower prices than HexClad. If you have the budget, however, HexClad is the better option. It's nonstick, it's more durable, and it provides a superior cooking experience.

Why do we no longer recommend GreenPan?

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.

Should I get cast iron or stainless steel?

Cast iron provides better heat retention and adaptability without the need for seasoning and attentive maintenance. In contrast, stainless steel is simpler to clean, more durable, and compatible with induction cooktops. Both have advantages.

What is the healthiest coating for pan?

Ceramic-coated cookware uses a safer, sand-based material that's manufactured without PFAS (a class of harmful synthetic chemicals known as C8, or Teflon.) These safe ceramic coatings are able to resist heat, grease, and water just like its toxic predecessor, but without the harmful health effects.

What are the disadvantages of cast iron?

Cast iron cookware's disadvantages include its heavy weight, the need for seasoning and maintenance, potential reaction with acidic foods, and lack of slickness for delicate cooking tasks.

What is the best material for cookware for everyday use?

Stainless Steel

This material can be found in many of the best pots and pans because it is durable and attractive. Stainless steel (particularly "18/10") is also prized as an interior cooking surface because it does not react with acidic or alkaline foods and won't pit or scratch easily.

Is there anything better than cast iron?

On the other hand, stainless steel is a great choice for durability and even heat distribution and is one of our favorite skillet materials. Carbon steel is another excellent choice for these properties and is a lightweight alternative to cast iron. Like cast iron, though, it will need to be seasoned and maintained.

What pan does Gordon Ramsay recommend?

Try HexClad and see why Gordan Ramsay loves it — and you'll love it too. If you're a home cook worth your salt, you deserve the latest innovation in cookware. Try our revolutionary cookware for your next big meal, or start with a few of your favorite cookware items to stock your cabinets slowly.

Which is better, ceramic or cast iron?

If you're looking for durability, we recommend cast iron. If you're looking for every day and non-stick cookware, we recommend opting for ceramic in your kitchen. FIKA has a wide array of ceramic pots and pans that you can use for your everyday cooking.

What is HexClad made of?

HexClad's nearly indestructible three-ply pans consist of stainless steel, magnetic stainless steel (for induction stovetop compatibility), and aluminum, finished off with laser etchings and diamond (carbon) dust.

What cookware to avoid?

Don't Use
  • Nonstick (Teflon) pans. May contain toxic, forever PFAS chemicals and other unidentified toxics that can be released when heated. ...
  • Copper (unlined) While small amounts of copper are non-toxic, higher levels in the body can be harmful. ...
  • Ceramic. ...
  • Porcelain enamel.

Is enameled cast iron toxic?

The good news is that enameled cast iron is generally considered safe for cooking. The enamel coating is made from glass and does not contain harmful chemicals like PFOA or PTFE , which are found in some non-stick coatings.

Is calphalon non-toxic?

Our products are safe, and compliant with with all applicable federal and state safety regulations. We are proud to be able to offer our customers a variety of cookware materials to choose from, including stainless steel and nonstick ceramic.

What is the safest everyday pan?

For our recommendations, we stick to stainless steel, cast iron, and enamel or ceramic coatings. If you're making the switch from traditional nonstick cookware, you should look into ceramic or enameled cookware.

What not to cook in stainless steel?

5 foods you should never cook in stainless steel cookware
  • Tomato sauce. Highly acidic foods and dishes, such as tomato sauce, can react with stainless steel (or, as it is sometimes called, inox) over time, leading to discoloration of the material. ...
  • Eggs. ...
  • Pancakes. ...
  • Steak. ...
  • Fish.

When should you throw away pans?

  1. Your non-stick pans are scratched or flaking. ...
  2. Your pots and pans have rust or pitting. ...
  3. You want to switch to induction. ...
  4. The handles are loose, cracked or broken. ...
  5. Your pans are warped and don't sit flush on the cooktop.

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