Here are some safe healthy cookware alternatives under $100…
Current wellness trends seem to dictate that we ensure our health via a more comprehensive approach. For that reason, as we rally for our survival we don’t want to forget the importance of cookware. So in an effort to keep the chemicals out of our very healthy, organic, non-gmo food we abandon conventional, toxic cookware and look toward safe alternatives.
The reputation of non-stick pans such as teflon took a nose dive when it was found to release fine particles from the chemical perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) into the air, which could be potentially toxic when inhaled. PFOA along with another toxin, PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), are used to make most conventional cookware. These toxins have been linked to breast, prostate, and ovarian cancer. Another culprit is aluminum , which is a neurotoxic metal. Elevated aluminum levels have been linked to Alzheimer’s and ALS. As a result of these unhealthy associations many have ditched the toxic cookware and traded them for safe and stylish alternatives.
Now aside from the obvious traditional healthy cookware options, which include stainless steel and cast iron, as of late there are even more options. First on that list is ceramic non stick cookware.
Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware
Ceramic non stick cookware offers the best of both worlds. It’s practical and has stylish flair. It’s more lightweight than cast iron and it’s non stick marble coating makes it more durable than stainless steel, which tends to quickly lose its luster. The marble coating also allows for a scratch free surface and even heating. Ceramic non stick cookware is dishwasher safe and is made for just about any type of stovetop (though there have been some reports that cooking on an electric stovetop may be challenging).
There are a few cons to ceramic non stick cookware. For starters, handles do get pretty hot so you’ll need protective gloves or mitts when handling. Also, unlike cast iron this cookware may not be used in the oven. Like stainless steel it is also not to be used in the microwave. Next, there are scammers lurking about selling you “ceramic coated” cookware, which can result in lead poisoning versus 100% ceramic cookware so be sure to check the make up of the cookware. Finally, some may find this cookware to be on the pricey side compared to traditional options. At the same time your health is worth the investment and with such a short list of cons this is definitely a safe cookware alternative well worth exploring.
Carbon Steel
Another safe alternative is carbon steel. Carbon steel is very similar to cast iron in weight, having to be seasoned prior to use and no coating. Also, like cast iron, carbon steel performs exceptionally well in high heat cooking. However, unlike cast iron, carbon steel is more pricey. Another con for carbon steel cookware is that it primarily will only be found as a wok and rarely will you find one that comes with a lid.
With that said, both alternatives have benefits that far outweigh the cons making them both an investment well worth exploring. After all, your health is your wealth.
Do you know of other safe healthy cookware alternatives under $100?
