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.

  • Pothetato@lemmy.world
    89·
    21 hours 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.