What to know about PFOS, PFOA and other pan coatings

PFOA coatings were banned in the UK in 2005 because of concerns about toxicity, with research showing the release of microplastics during use could contribute to health issues such as low birth weight, hormonal issues and an increased risk of some forms of cancer.

Since July 2020 the level of PFOS in production and in end products is restricted under EU Regulations.

So, it goes without saying that older pans lurking at the back of the cupboard - especially those which have been damaged, scored or have flaking to their base - should be destined for the dump immediately.

Don’t panic - your weekend fry up is safe. Today’s non-stick pans which are often coated in Teflon (the brand name for synthetic fluoropolymer PTFE) and have been found safe to use under normal conditions. The trick is to know how to use pans correctly as there are potential dangers with sustained use over 260 degrees Celsius. In these extreme temperatures, coatings can break down causing chemicals to be released.

What are PFAS chemicals?

Non-stick materials used in the market at present must comply with standards set by the Office For Product Safety and Standards in the UK, as well as with European legislation.

Are air fryers safe?

Let’s not forget the trays in air fryers, which can feature a variety of non-stick coatings. Always buy a well-known brand to ensure they comply with safety standards and if you prefer to avoid non-stick PTFE coatings, many of our favourite air fryers fit the bill. For example, Ninja’s range of air fryers feature ceramic-coated trays, or the Breville Halo Rotisserie air fryer oven has stainless steel inner shelves.

Other types of pan coatings

If you’d rather pans that don’t use ‘non-stick’ coatings , there are plenty of alternatives that offer efficient heat distribution and easy clean up.

Ceramic non stick

Ceramic non-stick pans are great for frying and general cooking with a smooth-as-silk ceramic coating that’s a pleasure to cook with. Some cooks appreciate the lighter colour of some models’ interiors as it can be easier to gauge levels of browning. And most ceramic pans can rival Teflon’s slip-and-slide non-stick qualities. Always use silicon and wooden utensils to prevent scoring - metal spoons can leave traces and wear down the coating..

Cast iron

Any carnivore will tell you there’s nothing like cast iron to get the perfect crust on a steak while retaining the juiciness of the meat. But treat your cast iron skillet well by seasoning it regularly and you’ll find it’s a great all-round workhorse in the kitchen, with surprisingly non-stick qualities. Although heavy at times, they’re also superb for one-pot dishes served at the table as they retain heat well.

Stainless steel

A bright stainless steel pan heats evenly and quickly while lasting the course in the busiest of kitchens. At the pricey end of the range come top-quality, bonded tri-ply stainless steel pans that cook evenly, thanks to an aluminium core that helps distribute heat efficiently. Choose a pan with handles in the same material and it’s good for hob-to-oven use too, at searing temperatures that wouldn’t be safe for Teflon models.

Aluminium pans

Aluminium may not have the staying power of some of the other choices here. Although fabulous for an even fry, for example, the cheaper models can be prone to warp over time. It’s more commonly used as an inner material for pans with other coatings as its heat distribution is impressive.

Carbon steel pans

Carbon steel pans are made from a combination of steel and cast iron to ensure sturdiness and even cooking results. Most require regular seasoning to ensure acceptable levels of ‘non-stickiness’ but they can be inexpensive, hardwearing and great for even results.

Our expert picks of the very best

Always Pan 2.0

Star rating 5/5

Our favourite non-stick frying pan, the Always Pan, not only looks stylish, its ceramic non-stick coating is super-smooth and gives fantastic, speedy cooking results. This pan is lighter than we expected, as it is made with 100% recycled aluminium. It can also go from hob to oven and is safe to 230ºC.

Kuhn Rikon All round 3-piece saucepan set

Star rating 5/5

Top of the wish list when it comes to the best saucepan sets, this wonderful stainless steel trio from Kuhn Rikon impressed. A thick, solid base makes them suitable for all cooking surfaces, including induction, and we were impressed by their ability to heat super-fast and respond instantly to lowering the heat.

Solidteknic 26cm Quenched seamless iron frying pan

• Available from Buy Me Once (£139)

Star rating 5/5

This Australian brand’s lightweight version of a classic got top marks in our roundup of best cast iron skillets. Not only was it easier to move around than its rivals, the handle stayed cool during hob use, which is a huge safety bonus. A quality choice, this one comes with a multi-century guarantee.

• Available from Buy Me Once (£139)

Le Creuset Signature cast iron Grillit

Star rating 5/5

Brush with oil before cooking and over time, this cast iron griddle’s patina will improve its searing capabilities. The effort is worth it - it was a favourite amongst our choice of the best griddle pans. Once up to temperature, you can sear meat and veg quickly to lock in flavour and moisture while also achieving those iconic griddle marks.

Samuel Groves classic tri-ply sauté pan and lid

Star rating 5/5

This stunning Samuel Grov sauté pan is a beautiful looking piece of kit and so versatile. With two handles, both of which are solidly-riveted onto the pan, it is a cinch to move from hob to oven, and it looks great on the table for a ‘help yourself’ supper. Although there is no added non-stick coating on this choice from our favourite sauté pans, the high-quality stainless steel worked a treat – nothing stuck and hand-washing was quick and easy.

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Non-stick frying pan recipes

Frying pan filo tart
Pan-fried salmon
Pan-fried rib-eye steak
Pan-fried sprouts and crunchy chorizo crumbs
Pan-fried potato gnocchi
Paneer and chickpea fry
Pan-fried sea bass with ratatouille and basil
One-pan egg and veg brunch