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Cast Iron Skillets: Non-Stick Frying Pans Without a Non-Stick Coating
Cast iron skillets have been used for generations and are beloved by home cooks and professional chefs alike. They’re durable, versatile, and provide a unique cooking experience that’s hard to replicate with other materials. They are also considered non toxic and safe for cooking. However, what makes cast iron skillets so special, and why are they considered non-toxic? In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of cast iron skillets and what makes them a safe and healthy choice for your kitchen. We will also take a look at what cast iron skillets are available.
Benefits of Cast Iron Skillets
- Durable: Cast iron skillets are known for their durability. They’re made from a single piece of metal, which means there are no weak points or joints that can break over time. With proper care, a cast iron skillet can last for generations, making it a great investment for any home cook.
- Versatile: Cast iron skillets can be used on almost any cooking surface, including stovetops, ovens, grills, and campfires. They’re perfect for searing, frying, baking, and even making pancakes or pizza. Plus, cast iron skillets can go from stovetop to oven without any issues, making them ideal for recipes that require a combination of cooking methods.
- Heat retention: Cast iron skillets are excellent at retaining heat. They distribute heat evenly, which means your food cooks more consistently. Plus, cast iron skillets stay hot even after you remove them from the heat source, which is great for keeping food warm or finishing off dishes in the oven.
- Non-stick: When properly seasoned, cast iron skillets become naturally non-stick. Unlike non-stick coatings that can wear off over time, cast iron skillets only become more seasoned with use, making them even more non-stick over time.
Naturally Non-Stick Properties of Cast Iron Skillets
One of the key benefits of cast iron skillets is that they are naturally non-stick and non-toxic, making them a healthy and safe choice for cooking. Unlike some other types of cookware, cast iron skillets are made from natural materials that are free from harmful chemicals. Cast iron is made of iron, carbon, and silicon, as well as trace amounts of other elements like manganese, sulfur, and phosphorus. When properly seasoned, cast iron skillets can form a natural non-stick surface without the need for any synthetic coatings or chemicals that could potentially leach into food. This is achieved through the formation of a layer of polymerized oil, resulting in a smooth non-stick surface during the seasoning process of a cast iron skillet. As such, cast iron is naturally non-stick and does not require any additional non-stick coatings such as Teflon.
Skillets made with other materials can have non stick coatings. Non-stick coatings are made with chemicals that can be harmful to human health, such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which has been linked to health problems like cancer and liver damage. PFOA was commonly used in the production of non-stick coatings like Teflon. While PFOA has been largely phased out of non-stick coatings, some newer coatings may still contain other potentially harmful chemicals like perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which can break down and release harmful fumes at high temperatures. These fumes can cause a condition known as polymer fume fever, which can result in flu-like symptoms like fever, chills, and headache.
Non-stick coatings are not permanent and can wear off over time, releasing harmful chemicals into food. When scratched or damaged, non-stick coatings can also release small particles that can be ingested, potentially causing health problems.
Things To Know About Cast Iron
- Iron: When heated, cast iron skillets release small amounts of iron into the food. This can be beneficial for people who are iron-deficient, but it’s important to note that cast iron skillets shouldn’t be relied upon as a sole source of iron. Also, if someone has a health condition that requires them to limit their intake of dietary iron, then using a cast iron skillet may not be recommended. In general, it’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider about any dietary restrictions or recommendations based on individual health needs.
- Rust: If your cast iron skillet develops rust, it’s important to remove it before using the skillet again. Rust can contain harmful compounds that can leach into your food, so it’s important to keep your skillet clean and well-maintained.
- Cleaning: After each use, clean the skillet with warm water and a mild soap, and dry it thoroughly to prevent moisture from causing rust. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or steel wool, which can damage the seasoning and expose the cast iron to food.
Cast Iron Skillets
We have asked the following questions when selecting cast iron skillets.
Does The Skillet Have A Non Stick Coating Such As Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), Also Known As Teflon?
The cast iron skillets listed below do not have a non-stick coating made from chemicals.
Is It Pre-Seasoned?
A cast iron skillet can come pre-seasoned or not pre-seasoned. Pre-seasoned cast iron skilles are coated with a layer of oil or fat and then baked at a high temperature. If a cast iron skillet is not pre-seasoned, it is important to season it yourself before using it for the first time. Seasoning creates a non-stick surface on the cast iron skillet and helps prevent rusting. Cast iron skillets need to be properly seasoned to become non-stick. A pre-seasoned cast iron skillet is typically more convenient and may be a better option for those who are new to using cast iron cookware or who do not want to spend time seasoning the skillet themselves. Many modern cast iron skillets are pre-seasoned with vegetable oil. The cast iron skillets we listed below are all pre-seasoned cast iron skillets.
What Oil Was Used For Pre-Seasoning?
You may want to check what type of oil was used to pre-season a cast iron skillet. For example, some people may have a soybean oil allergy, so it may be necessary to look for a pre-seasoned skillet that uses other types of vegetable oils. Additionally, some companies offer pre-seasoned skillets that use organic oils.
FINEX Cast Iron Skillet
Have A Non Stick Coating Made From Chemicals?: No
Pre-Seasoned: Yes
Oil Used For Pre-Seasoning: Organic Flaxeed Oil
Greater Goods Cast Iron Skillet
Have A Non Stick Coating Made From Chemicals?: No
Pre-Seasoned: Yes
Oil Used For Pre-Seasoning: 100% organic, fatty-acid rich flax seed oil from Canada
Victoria Cast-Iron Skillet
Have A Non Stick Coating Made From Chemicals?: No
Pre-Seasoned: Yes
Oil Used For Pre-Seasoning: Non-GMO, kosher-certified flaxseed oil
Backcountry Iron Smooth Wasatch Pre-Seasoned Round Cast Iron Skillet
Have A Non Stick Coating Made From Chemicals?: No
Pre-Seasoned: Yes
Oil Used For Pre-Seasoning: Flaxseed Oil
Utopia Kitchen Pre-Seasoned Cast iron Skillet
Have A Non Stick Coating Made From Chemicals?: No
Pre-Seasoned: Yes
Oil Used For Pre-Seasoning: 100% Flaxseed Oil
Lodge Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder
Have A Non Stick Coating Made From Chemicals?: No
Pre-Seasoned: Yes
Oil Used For Pre-Seasoning: Soy Based Vegetable Oil
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
Have A Non Stick Coating Made From Chemicals: No
Pre-Seasoned: Yes
Oil Used For Pre-Seasoning: Soy Based Vegetable Oil
Final Thoughts
Cast iron skillets are a safe and healthy choice for cooking, offering non-toxic properties and naturally non-stick surfaces. By choosing cast iron skillets over non-stick cookware, you can reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and enjoy the benefits of a durable, versatile, and long-lasting piece of cookware. With proper care and maintenance, a cast iron skillet can provide you with years of cooking enjoyment, while also providing potential health benefits. So next time you’re in the market for a new skillet, consider choosing cast iron for a healthy and safe cooking experience.
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