Nonstick Cookware: Is It Really Safe? What You Need to Know About PFOA and Cooking Temperatures
What You Need to Know About PFOA and Nonstick Cookware Safety? PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) was used in Teflon nonstick cookware and is linked to health concerns. Though phased out in 2015, it remains in the environment. Use nonstick pans below 500°F; lightweight pans can exceed this in under 2 minutes on high heat. Safe cooking temps are 218°F for eggs, 318°F for chicken stir-fry, and 465°F for bacon. Always follow instructions, avoid preheating empty pans, and replace damaged cookware!