this post was submitted on 16 May 2025
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No, this isn't a cast iron thing. Using stainless pans, you can get nonstick effects that, in my experience, far outperform Teflon anyway. The process is called "spot seasoning." I have cooked crispy, cheesy rice noodles with eggs with zero sticking.

I love my cast iron pans, but stainless is my daily go-to. Added bonus: use 100% copper wool to clean your stainless pan. The copper-coated wool at most grocery stores is problematic; you might get a few uses out of the coated garbage and then it starts shedding metal bits.

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[–] SplashJackson@lemmy.ca 46 points 2 weeks ago (18 children)

Isn't teflon a cancer-causing "forever chemical"?

[–] Pothetato@lemmy.world -2 points 2 weeks ago

Veritasium just made a great video about the history of Teflon and related chemicals. I got claude to help me put here:

Teflon and PFAS Health Concerns

Teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE) and related compounds have several health concerns:

Teflon itself

  • The intact, long-chain PTFE polymer generally passes through the body without being absorbed, as you noted
  • Not considered directly toxic when ingested in its stable form

Related harmful compounds

PFOA (C8) and PFOS:

  • Used historically in Teflon manufacturing (not present in final product)
  • Extremely persistent "forever chemicals" that bioaccumulate
  • Associated with:
    • Various cancers (kidney, testicular)
    • Immune system impairment
    • Thyroid disruption
    • Reproductive issues
    • Developmental problems

Shorter-chain PFAS (including C6):

  • Introduced as "safer" replacements for C8 compounds
  • Still very persistent in environment and bodies
  • Growing evidence suggests similar health concerns to longer chains
  • May be more mobile in environment

Heating concerns

Teflon breakdown:

  • At normal cooking temperatures (below 500°F/260°C): minimal risk
  • At high temperatures (above 500°F/260°C): Teflon begins to degrade
  • At very high temperatures (above 660°F/350°C): releases toxic gases including:
    • Fluorinated compounds
    • Particulate matter
    • Can cause "polymer fume fever" in humans (flu-like symptoms)
    • Fatal to birds due to sensitive respiratory systems

Recommendations:

  • Don't preheat empty pans
  • Avoid high-heat cooking with Teflon
  • Replace scratched or damaged Teflon cookware
  • Consider alternatives like cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic

I have never has success with stainless steel but I will definitely try the heat/wipe/fresh technique if I get a chance.

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