Best Healthy Nonstick Cookware from a Nutritionist (2023)

What’s Inside: Home cooking is part of healthy living, there’s no doubt about it. Ensuring we are cooking with healthier products is essential to supporting our overall health, and making smarter swaps that work well for our lifestyle is key. I’m sharing my favorite types including one of my favorite non-toxic and nonstick brands to replace toxic Teflon products you may find hard to break up with!

What is non-toxic cookware?

Non-toxic cookware refers to cooking vessels made of materials that are free from toxic chemicals or heavy metals that can leach into the food during cooking. Some common types of non-toxic cookware materials include stainless steel, ceramic, glass, and cast iron.

Why switch to non-toxic cookware?

1. Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals

Many traditional cookware materials, such as aluminum, copper, and non-stick coatings, contain harmful chemicals that can leach into food during cooking. These chemicals can be harmful to our health, especially when consumed in large quantities over time. For example, exposure to aluminum has been linked to neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, while non-stick coatings can release toxic fumes when heated to high temperatures. I discuss more about forever chemicals and their major issues to our health below.

2. Reduce the risk of food contamination

Certain materials used in traditional cookware can react with acidic or alkaline foods, resulting in a metallic taste and potential health hazards. For instance, using copper or aluminum cookware to cook acidic foods like tomatoes can lead to the leaching of toxic substances into the food, causing food contamination. Switching to non-toxic cookware made of safe materials like stainless steel or ceramic can prevent such risks.

3. Improve overall health – Including your gut health

Choosing non-toxic cookware can promote overall health and well-being. Cookware made of safe materials does not expose you to harmful chemicals, and hence there is less risk of chronic health conditions such as cancer or respiratory issues. Besides, some non-toxic cookware options, such as cast iron pans, can also help in adding essential minerals to the diet, such as iron.

Here are 4 “safe” non-toxic alternatives

#1 Stainless Steel Cookware

*A classic and versatile option coming in a lot of shapes and applications, will require more oil/cooking fat so food doesn’t stick when applicable*

Stainless steel cookware is an excellent choice for those who want a durable, versatile, and safe cooking vessel. It is easy to clean and maintain, and unlike other materials, it does not react with acidic or alkaline foods. Moreover, stainless steel cookware is resistant to scratches, making it an ideal choice for everyday use.

>> My Pick: All-Clad Stainless

#2 Glass Cookware

*Great for baking, casseroles, and storing food*

Glass cookware is an excellent option for those who want a non-toxic cookware option that is both safe and aesthetically pleasing. It is free from harmful chemicals, does not react with acidic foods, and is easy to clean. Glass cookware is also oven-safe and can be used for baking and reheating food.

>> My Pick: Pyrex Baking Dishes

#3 Cast Iron Cookware

*Durable and long-lasting, while very affordable option and can be used as a non-stick*

Cast iron is a durable and non-toxic material that has been used for cooking for centuries. Unlike non-stick cookware, which can release harmful chemicals when heated, cast iron is free from harmful coatings and is a more stable material when exposed to heat.

In fact, cooking with cast iron can even have health benefits. When you cook with cast iron, a small amount of iron can leach into your food, which can help prevent iron deficiency anemia. Iron is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including transporting oxygen throughout the body.

Moreover, research has suggested that cooking with cast iron may also help reduce the risk of developing iron overload, a condition where there is an excessive accumulation of iron in the body, which can be harmful.

In addition to its health benefits, cast iron cookware is also versatile and can be used for a variety of cooking methods, such as baking, frying, and roasting. It can also be used on a variety of cooking surfaces, including stovetops, ovens, and even campfires.

However, it’s essential to note that cast iron cookware requires proper seasoning and care to maintain its non-stick properties and prevent rusting. With proper care, cast iron cookware can last a lifetime and provide a healthy and reliable cooking option. It’s also pretty heavy to carry, and may not be the best option for those with joint pain or arthritis.

>> My Pick: Lodge Cast Iron & Lodge Enameled Cast Iron

#4 Ceramic Cookware

*This is a great non-stick option to replace former Teflon type of products that requires much less oil/cooking fat and makes clean up a breeze*

Ceramic cookware is another non-toxic cookware option that is gaining popularity due to its non-reactive nature and durability. It is free from harmful chemicals like PTFE and PFOA, which are commonly found in non-stick cookware. Moreover, ceramic cookware comes in a range of colors and designs, making it an attractive addition to any kitchen.

>> My Pick: Caraway Cookware (10% OFF Link)

What is wrong with regular nonstick?

Did you know…

• It only take 2.5 minutes for a traditional nonstick saucepan on high heat to exceed 500°F and begin releasing chemicals!
• These chemicals are called ‘Forever Chemicals.’  Scientists demonstrated these ‘forever chemicals’ take decades or longer to leave the body and they never break down in the environment!
• Polytetrafluoroethylene – this is the chemical that is on 95% of all non-stick pots and pans!

What harm are these ‘Forever Chemicals’ doing to my body?

Forever Chemicals are also known as PFAs. These are chemicals that are used in so many everyday materials for their heat-proof, water-proof, and oil-proof properties. Due to its widespread usage, it can now be found in some tap water!

They are called forever chemicals because they cannot break down in nature, and can build up over a long period in your body! The only way to rid yourself of these forever chemicals is to rid yourself of the source, and, in time, your body will pass them through.

PFAS have been linked to: 

• thyroid problems 
• immune system issues
• reduced fertility
• metabolism issues
• high cholesterol
• weight gain
• decreased birth weights
• and various types of cancer

Ready to upgrade cookware and cook safely in style? Check out Caraway Cookware for gorgeous designs and receive 10% off your purchase

Why Do I Love Caraway Cookware?

My synthetic-free healthy nonstick cookware, Caraway pots and pans are my favorite items in my kitchen!

They are ceramic non-stick, they are coated using a mineral-based coating that won’t leach toxic materials into your clean & healthy ingredients.

They are far more eco-friendly! When compared to other traditional non-stick pans, the Caraway Cookware was proven to release 60% less CO2!

Naturally slick pans mean that you don’t need to use as much butter or oil to coat your pan for cooking and will also make the scrubbing afterward minimal!

The heat conductivity is flawless! The pan heats up properly and evenly so food is cooked perfectly even every time.

This healthy nonstick cookware is so versatile as well, the pots and pans can be use on an electric oven, gas or induction!

One more thing I love is that all the packages sent are sent in ‘thoughtful packaging’. Meaning it’s sent in recycled cardboard with zero plastic bags, low-impact print dyes, and 100% biodegradable cork trivets!

I personally have never found a brand of pots and pans that aren’t only healthy to cook with, but so stylish as well! Caraway Cookware comes in a variety of different colors so there will be something you love! My favorite is the cream set.

They even have amazing storage solutions to keep your kitchen neat and organized. Magnetic pan racks and canvas lid holders conveniently store your cookware safely where it won’t take a tumble.

More Highlights For Caraway:

• Free of PTFE (such as Teflon®)
• Free of PFOA (a type of cleaning chemical)
• Free of Heavy Metals
• Free of other PFAs (more man made chemicals)

Baking with Caraway

The healthy nonstick cookware doesn’t stop with pots and pans. Caraway also stocks a large selection of stylish non-stick ceramic coated bakeware, to make a healthier piece of cake! From muffin trays to cake tins and cooling racks, Caraway will have you baking in style!

More Healthy Recommendations to Try

If you are looking for other ways to improve your health, then check out some of my other posts.

Best Water Filter for your Thyroid

5 Ways To Get More Bone Broth In Your Diet

Is Caffeine Affecting Your Hormones

10 Strategies For Staying Motivated To Eat Healthy

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Here’s what else is in my kitchen that I use and recommend for quality and safety: Stainless Steel, Glass, and Cast Iron