Are you concerned about the harmful chemicals in your nonstick cookware? Are you worried that damage could lead to toxic chemicals leaking into your food when cooking?
A scratch on your pan could cause toxins to leak into your food. But luckily, there are many options when it comes to cookware that’s toxin-free.
And we did the research so you don’t have to! We found the best non-toxic cookware on the market. And with our list of the most important features, you’ll find the perfect pots and pans that are safe to use for your cooking.
Our Top Picks
HomeKitchenLand earns a commission through the following independently chosen links at no additional cost to you.What is Non-Toxic Cookware?
Non-toxic cookware is cookware that’s made of material that’s free of harmful PFAS, lead, and cadmium.
- Today, all pan materials are free from lead and cadmium. The only exception is antique ceramic pans or pure ceramic pans manufactured outside of the USA. Some of these manufacturers tend to use harmful chemicals in their glazes.
- PFAS are man-made chemicals that include PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) & GenX.
- PFOA, also known as C8, is a chemical that has been used to produce Teflon (PTFE) coatings on nonstick pans. PFOA is a health risk because it can stay in the environment and the body for a long period. However, PFOA was burned off during the manufacturing process and wasn’t present in a significant amount. Still, it’s been deemed by WHO as a potential carcinogen (1)
- GenX is a trade-name for technology that’s currently used to manufacture Teflon nonstick coatings without the use of PFOA.
All Teflon cookware is now PFOA-free. In 2006 EPA decided to eliminate PFOA from all cookware production because of the health risks (2).
However, Teflon pans do have GenX. And according to the EPA, exposure to GenX can lead to adverse health effects such as cancer (3).
So non-toxic cookware includes pans that aren’t antique ceramic, ceramic pans manufactured outside of the USA, or Teflon pans.
Read Next:
- Is Ceramic Cookware Safe?
- Ceramic Cookware Pros And Cons: 13 Things To Know!
- Ceramic Vs. Teflon Cookware: What’s The Difference?
- The 8 Nonstick Pans Without Teflon Of 2023
Types of Non-Toxic Cookware
There are many different options when it comes to non-toxic cookware. This includes cast iron, stainless steel, carbon steel, copper, and ceramic-coated hard-anodized aluminum.
Cast Iron
Cast iron cookware is considered one of the safest cookware materials to use. Its composition is free from many chemicals.
Cast iron cookware is inexpensive, extremely durable, and retains heat well. It can also withstand high heat temperatures. If seasoned properly, it also releases food well. So food won’t stick to the surface.
It’s important to note that cast iron cookware can leach iron into food if it isn’t seasoned properly. But, not excessively. And this can be beneficial for people that have an iron deficiency.
For an example of cast-iron cookware see this Lodge seasoned cast iron skillet.
Pros
- Resistant to high temperatures
- No risk of coating chipping off
Cons
- Needs to be seasoned properly to avoid iron leaching
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is naturally a non-toxic metal. Because of this, it’s safe to use for cookware without a coating.
Stainless steel is also durable and resistant to corrosion. Plus, it’s a non-reactive metal. So it doesn’t react to cooking acidic foods. It doesn’t flake off and end up in your food the way that some nonstick pans can.
And similarly to cast iron, the composition of stainless steel cookware is free from many chemicals.
However, one study has indicated increased nickel and chromium levels found in acidic foods cooked for long periods in stainless steel cookware. And this can cause adverse skin reactions. For example, it can cause dermatitis.
It’s also important to note that small amounts of other heavy metals can leach into your food from stainless steel cookware. For example, nickel, which can cause a reaction if you’re allergic.
For an example of stainless steel cookware, see this All-Clad set.
Check Also: The 9 Best Stainless Steel Cookware Sets Of 2023
Pros
- Doesn’t need a coating
- Very durable
Cons
- Chromium and nickel can leach and cause allergies
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel is made from 99% iron and 1% carbon and is a safe material for cookware. It doesn’t contain toxic chemicals so it can be used without a coating.
It’s durable, scratch-resistant, and lightweight compared to cast iron. But, like cast iron, carbon steel cookware can leach a small amount of iron into your food. However, this can be avoided if you season carbon steel pans well.
For example, this De Buyer Mineral B Element grill pan is made from carbon steel.
Check Also: The 10 Best Carbon Steel Pans Of 2023
Pros
- Versatile
- Can withstand high temperatures
Cons
- React to acidic food
- Needs regular seasoning
Copper
Copper is another material used for safe cookware. However, it’s important to note that copper cookware can be toxic if it’s unlined.
Copper is a great heat conductor, it’s resistant to corrosion, and it offers aesthetic qualities.
If it’s unlined, it can leach a lot of copper into your food. Trace amounts of copper are safe, but too much can lead to copper poisoning. But, when it’s lined, copper is completely safe. It’s non-toxic and doesn’t contain any chemicals.
If your copper cookware is lined with tin, it’s important to be careful. The tin lining can wear out over time and can melt at temperatures above 425°F.
So we recommend using copper lined with stainless steel pans. It’s more durable than tin and as we mentioned above, stainless steel has a lot of benefits for cooking.
Read Next: The 8 Best Copper Cookware Pieces in 2023
Pros
- Very corrosion resistant
- Good thermal conductivity
Cons
- Doesn’t retain heat well
- Needs to be lined
Hard-anodized Aluminum with Ceramic Coating
Hard anodized aluminum cookware is made of aluminum that’s processed through anodization. And it usually has a PTFE or ceramic nonstick coating.
The ceramic coating is not chemical-free because it’s made of a sol-gel composition. But it is non-toxic.
The anodization process makes hard-anodized aluminum cookware less reactive and resistant to corrosion. It also has the advantage of being lightweight and scratch-resistant.
For example, see this cookware set of Gotham Steel.
Check Also: The 8 Best Hard Anodized Cookware Sets Of 2023
Pros
- Durable
- Non-reactive thanks to the anodization
Cons
- Need special care
How to Choose the Best Non-Toxic Cookware
Here are a few details to keep in mind to help you choose the right non-toxic cookware for your kitchen.
Pieces in Set
First, you should consider how many pieces you’ll need. If you live on your own, a small set could be enough. There are basic sets with only one frying pan, a dutch oven, and a sauce pan. But, if you do a lot of cooking for the family, you might want a complete set.
For example, this Greenlife cookware set has 12 pieces. Whereas this Cuisinart set has 7 pieces.
Some sets also come with accessories such as lids or utensils. For example, this Greenlife set comes with a ladle, spoons, and a turner. And this Lodge set comes with a handle helper. Find a set that best matches your needs.
Compatibility
Then, consider how you want to use your cookware set.
Do you want to put your cookware into the oven? Cookware that you can place in the oven offers a lot of versatility. So make sure you check if it’s oven-safe and check the temperature limit too. For example, this Cuisinart set is oven and broiler safe up to 550F.
If you want to pop your cookware straight into the dishwasher, make sure you check if it’s dishwasher-safe. For example, this Greenlife set is dishwasher-safe.
However, we don’t recommend putting your cookware in the dishwasher. Harsh detergents can damage the cookware, especially if it has a nonstick coating. So keep in mind that even if your cookware is safe for the dishwasher, hand washing it will extend its lifespan.
Lastly, it’s important to check if your cookware is compatible with your stovetop. For example, induction cooktops need induction-ready cookware with magnetic bases. For example, the Michelangelo cookware works on an induction stove. But, the GreenPan set isn’t induction-ready.
And glass top stoves need flat-bottomed cookware that won’t scratch the stovetop surface.
RELATED: Best Cookware for Glass Top Stove
Handles
You should also consider the material of the handles. This can affect the heat resistance of the pan in the oven. For example, the Rachael Ray cookware has rubberized stainless steel handles.
Cookware with cool grip handles can be more comfortable to handle when cooking. For example, this Greenlife set has cool grip handles.
Some sets also have removable handles This can be practical if you want to use your cookware in the oven or if you have small storage space.
Handles attached with rivets can last longer than handles attached with screws and they won’t need tightening. However, they can be harder to clean as bacteria can build up around the rivets. For example, this Michelangelo cookware has handles with rivets.
Rivetless handles are easier to keep clean because no food or bacteria can get stuck in the rivets. And they ensure easier cooking and less interference from rivet heads.
Warranty
Make sure you also check the warranty term for your cookware. Different brands have different warranties.
A warranty can protect your purchase against defects. For instance, GreenPan warrants its non-stick coating for up to 2 years. Cuisinart offers a limited lifetime warranty.
So make sure you check the manufacturer’s website to check the terms for your pan to see what’s covered before you buy. If you are unsure, contact the seller.
Brands
Finally, you should consider the brand of your cookware. It’s important to do your research to find your favorite non-toxic cookware brands.
Le Creuset
Le Creuset is a French cookware brand founded in 1925. They offer a range of premium cast-iron and stainless steel cookware. But, they’re known for their vibrant color-enameled cast iron pans.
Caraway
Caraway is a kitchenware brand that focuses on non-toxic ceramic cookware designed for healthy cooking. Their core message is “quality cookware, without chemicals.” They live up to their message through their ethical manufacturing and sustainable packaging. For an example of caraway cookware, see this Caraway Fry Pan.
GreenPan
GreenPan is a Belgium cookware brand focused on healthy cooking. They offer ceramic-coated nonstick pots and pans with chemical-free coatings. They have a range of different products at affordable prices. For example, the GreenPan Lima Healthy Ceramic frying pan.
Xtrema
Xtrema is a cookware brand that prides itself on making completely pure ceramic cookware. Their high-end cookware is 100% metal-free. For an example of their products, see this Xtrema Non-Toxic cookware.
Made In Cookware
Made In is a cookware brand that was founded in 2016. Though they’re fairly new, they are well-known for their high-quality USA-made products. They offer premium quality, artisan cookware at reasonable prices.
Demeyere & Staub
Demeyere & Staub are both non-toxic cookware brands owned by the Zwilling group. Staub cookware is made from cast-iron and ceramic materials. Demeyere cookware is made from stainless steel and is induction-ready. For example, see this Demeyere pan, or this Staub cast iron pan
The Best Non-Toxic Cookware Of 2023
We’ve created a list of the top 7 non-toxic cookware models on the market. We looked at honest user reviews, expert advice, and manufacturers’ specs to find you the best non-toxic cookware sets.
1. MICHELANGELO Stone Cookware Set
Every home chef needs a variety of reliable pots and pans for their kitchen. And this Michelangelo stone cookware set has exactly that!
With fry pans, a variety of pots, saucepan, and a large skillet, this set has everything you need for non-toxic cooking. Plus, the cast aluminum body provides superior heat distribution. So you can enjoy fast and even cooking without any cold or hotspots.
The pieces in this set feature Micehangelo’s ultra granite stone surface for high-quality nonstick capabilities. So you’ll have no hassle releasing food from this cookware. Plus, you can enjoy oil-free healthy cooking!
Finally, each piece has a heat-resistant handle. So they’ll resist heat and stay cool while cooking. You won’t need to use an oven mitt to handle these pots and pans!
What We Like
Stove Compatibility
You can use this cookware on any stovetop, which includes induction! These pots and pans have an induction-compatible spiral bottom. So you can use them on induction as well as gas, electric, or halogen stovetops.
Oven-Safe
The resistant handles can handle the oven. So you can safely place this cookware in the oven to bake or keep your food warm after cooking.
Durable
The natural ceramic particles on the coating and tri-layer die-cast aluminum bottom make this cookware set a durable pick. They can handle the heat as well as wear and tear in the kitchen. So they’ll last a long time even with frequent use!
What We Don’t Like
Loses Nonstick Quality
Many reviewers say that although the nonstick quality is high, it begins to deteriorate after a few months of use. So make sure you follow the care instructions for your pots and pans to make sure the nonstick coating lasts.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 10 |
What’s Included | fry pans, stockpot, saucepans, steamer insert, lids |
Material | die-cast aluminum |
Coating | natural granite stone coating |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 400°F |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Induction Ready | Yes |
Cooktop compatibility | Glass, Gas, Electric, Induction |
Warranty | Contact Seller |
Country of Production | China |
2. GreenLife Soft Grip Healthy Ceramic Pots and Pans Set
You’ll bag yourself a bargain with this ceramic cookware set from Greenlife. These colorful pots and pans are affordable and stylish.
With 16 pieces, you can enjoy cooking almost any meal with this set. And they’re dishwasher-proof. So you can pop them straight into the dishwasher as soon as you’ve finished cooking.
What we love most about these pots and pans is their Thermalon coating. It’s made from sand so there are no nasty chemicals or toxic metals that could release toxic fumes into your food. It’s PFA, PFOA, cadmium, and lead-free.
This ceramic cookware also has soft-grip bakelite handles that stay cool on the stovetop. You can enjoy a comfortable and heat-free grip with these pots and pans.
What We Like
Eco Friendly
These non-toxic pots and pans are eco-friendly too! The base is made from recycled aluminum. Plus, the CO2 emissions are up to 60% less than a traditional nonstick pan. So you can enjoy a lower cook-print with this cookware set.
Variety
The variety of different pieces of ceramic cookware included in this set offers a lot of versatility. With 12 different pieces of cookware to use you’ll be covered for almost any cooking situation!
Rivetless Interior
These ceramic-coated pans have a rivetless interior for easy cleanup. So no food or grease buildup will get stuck. You can easily wipe the interior surface clean without having to scrub away any stuck residue.
What We Don’t Like
Scratches Easily
A lot of reviewers found that these GreenLife ceramic-coated pans scratched easily with use. So make sure you don’t use any metal utensils with this ceramic cookware. And follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for maintaining your cookware.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 12 |
What’s Included | fry pans, saucepans, stockpot, sauté pan, lids, steamer, ladle, slotted turner, 5-piece measuring spoons |
Material | recycled aluminum |
Coating | ceramic |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 350°F |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Induction Ready | No |
Cooktop compatibility | Glass, Gas, Electric |
Warranty | Contact Seller |
Country of Production | China |
3. Cuisinart MultiClad Pro Stainless-Steel Cookware Set
This non-toxic quality set of stainless steel pots and pans is a great investment from a well-loved brand.
The cast stainless steel build of these pots and pans provides a durable and non-reactive surface. So you can cook with acidic foods without it altering the taste of your cooking. Plus, it’s resistant to corrosion. This cookware can withstand the test of time without rusting or corroding.
Stainless steel cookware is also induction-compatible. So you can use these pots and pans on an induction stove as well as gas or electric.
Lastly, the tight-fitting tempered glass lids on this cookware help to seal in the heat and nutrients from your cooking. Your food won’t dry out or lose flavor during the cooking process. And they won’t rattle either! This means you can bring your water to a boil quietly.
What We Like
Drip-Free Pouring
The pots and pans in this cookware set have tapered rims for easy pouring. So you can easily transfer liquids out of your pans without spilling or making a mess!
Lifetime Warranty
With a lifetime warranty, you can trust that you are making a good investment with these pots and pans. So you won’t have to worry about any defects with this set! You can rest knowing you’ll be covered for life.
Riveted Handles
The riveted handles on these pots and pans add to the durability of this set. The rivets provide strength to the handles. You won’t have any hassle gripping this cookware even when the pots are full.
What We Don’t Like
Hard To Clean Handles
While the rivets make the handles sturdier, it also makes it harder to clean. Many reviewers note that food often gets stuck around the rivets. You might have to clean the handles with extra attention after each use.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 7 |
What’s Included | saucepans, stockpot, skillet, lids |
Material | cast stainless steel |
Coating | none |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 550°F |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Induction Ready | Yes |
Cooktop compatibility | Glass, Gas, Electric, Induction |
Warranty | Lifetime limited |
Country of Production | China |
4. Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
Get the best of both worlds with this Lodge cast iron skillet. It combines high-quality performance with affordability!
The cast-iron surface of this skillet can withstand extremely high temperatures. So you can use it on the stove, in the oven, on the grill, or even over the campfire. You really have a lot of options with this skillet. Plus, it offers superior heat retention. So it’s great for searing a steak or frying a stir-fry!
This pre-seasoned skillet is ready to go as soon as it arrives. You won’t have to worry about any prep or oil. You can start cooking straight away!
And the easy-release finish provides high-quality nonstick capabilities. So you won’t have anything sticking to the base of this cast iron skillet!
What We Like
Long-Lasting
Cast iron is a long-lasting material that can withstand years of daily use. So this Lodge cast iron skillet will last you for many years! You won’t have to worry about replacing it any time soon.
Induction-Compatible
Cast-iron skillets are induction-compatible. And many reviewers state that this Lodge skillet is highly efficient on portable induction cooktops. So it’s a good choice for any stovetop!
Check Also:The Best Induction Cookware Sets in 2023
Easy To Clean
Unlike many cast iron skillets, this skillet is easy to clean. Because it’s pre-seasoned, it doesn’t have the stickiness that usually makes cast iron hard to clean. So you won’t have to waste time scrubbing or scraping away any stuck food residue on this skillet.
What We Don’t Like
Heavy
Cast iron skillets are a lot denser than other pans. So it’s heavier to cook with. This makes this skillet harder to handle in the kitchen if you’re tossing a stir fry or flipping a pancake.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 1 |
What’s Included | skillet |
Material | cast iron |
Coating | nonstick finish |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 500°F |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Induction Ready | Yes |
Cooktop compatibility | Glass, Gas, Electric, Induction |
Warranty | Contact Seller |
Country of Production | USA |
5. All-Clad D3 Stainless Cookware
This quality stainless steel 12-inch fry pan offers extremely high performance.
Its tri-ply construction with a responsive aluminum core provides a durable base that conducts heat extremely well. So you can enjoy fast even heating throughout your cooking without any hot or cold spots. Plus, it works well for induction cooking. And, it’s oven-safe up to 600F. This means you can bake with it too!
The starburst finish provides a highly polished cooking surface with high-quality stick resistance. Your food won’t stick to the base of this pan. It’s also non-reactive. So you can cook with acidic foods and it won’t leave a metal taste in your dish.
Plus, with All-Clad’s lifetime warranty, you can rest knowing you’re covered with this fry pan!
What We Like
Durable
The thick aluminum core bonded all the way around with 2 layers of stainless steel provides maximum durability with this fry pan. So it can withstand the demands of daily use in the kitchen!
Flared Sides
The flared sides of this fry pan make it easy to pour. So you won’t make a mess when cooking with this fry pan. It also allows for easy flipping and tossing!
Wide Flat Base
This All-Clad fry pan has a wide flat base and low-profile shape. So it’s perfect for glass stovetops! It won’t scratch or damage the glass or ceramic surface.
What We Don’t Like
Warping
Some reviewers noted that the bottom of their pan warped after use. This can cause liquids to pool in the center of your pan and it can make it unstable on cooking surfaces. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using your pan.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 1 |
What’s Included | fry pan, lid |
Material | stainless steel |
Coating | None |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 600°F |
Dishwasher Safe | No |
Induction Ready | Yes |
Cooktop compatibility | Glass, Gas, Electric, Induction |
Warranty | Lifetime limited |
Country of Production | USA |
6. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Round Dutch Oven
For a deeper dish, this Le Creuset round dutch oven is a quality pick.
The cast-iron enameled interior provides great heat distribution. And it retains heat well! So your food will stay warm inside this dutch oven long after you take it off the stove!
The advanced enameled interior provides extreme resistance to wear. You won’t have to worry about damaging the inside of this pan. It won’t chip or crack from use. Plus, it’s high heat resistant and it can withstand temperatures of up to 500F.
Lastly, the lid on this dutch oven is designed to be tight-fitting. So it’ll lock in the heat, moisture, and flavor of your cooking. It’s perfect for slow cooking or baking casseroles!
What We Like
Helper Handle
This enameled round dutch oven has large helper handles to help with the weight. So it’s easy to handle when transferring it from the stove to the oven or table.
Color
Le Creuset is well-known for its vibrant colors, and this round dutch oven is no disappointment. This pan will brighten up any kitchen with its pop of cherry color!
Stay-Cool Lid Knob
The knob on the lid is designed to stay cool during cooking. So you won’t have to worry about burning your hands when you’re lifting the lid.
What We Don’t Like
Enamel Defects
Some reviewers received their dutch ovens with defects in the enamel. Some of the defects went down to the core. So make sure you contact the seller before you use your dutch oven if you notice any defects in your enamel.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 1 |
What’s Included | dutch oven with lid |
Material | enameled cast iron |
Coating | enamel glaze |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 500°F |
Dishwasher Safe | No |
Induction Ready | Yes |
Cooktop compatibility | Glass, Gas, Electric, Induction |
Warranty | Contact Seller |
Country of Production | France |
7. GreenLife Soft Grip Healthy Ceramic Frying Pan Set
If you don’t need a whole set, these non-toxic ceramic frying pans are a great pick. Their recycled aluminum base conducts heat well, so they heat up quickly when cooking.
Aluminum is a durable cooking material, meaning these pans will last a long time and stand up to scratches from use. It’s also a great heat distributor. So these pans will distribute heat evenly for an effortless cooking experience.
They also have GreenLife’s signature soft-grip bakelite handles designed to stay cool on the stovetop. They’re comfortable and cool to handle.
Lastly, these pans are dishwasher safe. You can pop them into the dishwasher for fast and easy cleanup after cooking.
What We Like
Wobble-Free Base
They also have a forged wobble-free base that provides extra stability while heating. So your pan won’t wobble while you’re cooking.
East To Clean
The natural sand-derived nonstick coating makes these pans super easy to clean. No burnt bits or food residue will stick to the pan. So you can easily wipe it with a paper towel when you’re finished cooking.
Easy Food Release
Many reviewers say the nonstick ability of these pans is high quality. So your food will effortlessly slide out of the pan. You can enjoy the easy release of food without needing to scrape any food out of the pan.
What We Don’t Like
Discoloring
A lot of reviewers noted that these GreenLife pans discolored quickly around the base of the pan. So make sure you gently hand wash your pans to ensure the color doesn’t fade. And if you can, only use it on low to medium heat to help the color last.
Additional Specs
Pieces in Set | 2 |
What’s Included | two frying pans |
Material | Recycled aluminum |
Coating | Ceramic nonstick |
Oven Safe | Yes up to 350°F |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Induction Ready | No |
Cooktop compatibility | Glass, Gas, Electric |
Warranty | Contact Seller |
Country of Production | China |
Non-Toxic Cookware Comparison Chart
Product | Material | Coating | Oven Safe | Dishwasher Safe | Induction Ready |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
MICHELANGELO Stone Cookware Set | Die-cast aluminum | Natural granite stone coating | Yes up to 400°F | ||
GreenLife Soft Grip Ceramic Pots and Pans Set | Recycled aluminum | Ceramic | Yes up to 350°F | ||
Cuisinart MultiClad Pro Cookware Set | Cast stainless steel | None | Yes up to 550°F | ||
Lodge Cast Iron Skillet | Cast iron | Nonstick finish | Yes up to 500°F | ||
All-Clad D3 Stainless Cookware | Stainless steel | None | Yes up to 600°F | ||
Le Creuset Cast Iron Dutch Oven | Enameled cast iron | Enamel glaze | Yes up to 500°F | ||
GreenLife Soft Ceramic Frying Pan Set | Recycled aluminum | Enamel glaze | Yes up to 350°F |
Jump to the Full Non-Toxic Cookware Reviews
Harm Free Cooking
Safe cooking should be a priority. But, finding the best non-toxic cookware that won’t leak any toxic chemicals into your food can feel overwhelming.
Well, now you know that there are many other options for non-toxic cookware that’s chemical-free and safe to cook with!
Remember to keep in mind our key points before you buy. Think about the material of your cookware and the number of pieces you’ll need in your set. Make sure you check to see if it’s compatible with your stovetop and if it’s dishwasher or oven-safe.
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