What is PFAS and Why Should You Care?

If you've ever cooked with a non-stick pan, chances are it was coated with PFAS — a group of synthetic chemicals also known as 'forever chemicals'. The name says it all. PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) don't break down in the environment or in the human body, and growing scientific evidence links them to a range of health concerns including hormone disruption, immune system effects, and certain cancers.

For years, non-stick coatings like PTFE (commonly known as Teflon) have been the go-to choice for easy cooking and quick cleaning. But as awareness of PFAS grows, more and more home cooks are asking a simple question: is there a better way?

The Problem with Traditional Non-Stick Coatings

Non-stick pans are convenient — there's no denying it. But that convenience comes with some important caveats:

• They degrade over time. Non-stick coatings scratch, chip, and flake with regular use. Once the surface is damaged, those particles can end up in your food.
• They're sensitive to heat. Many non-stick coatings begin to break down at high temperatures, releasing fumes that can be harmful — particularly in poorly ventilated kitchens.
• They're not built to last. Most non-stick pans need replacing every few years, making them a false economy and a source of unnecessary waste.
• They contain PFAS. Many traditional non-stick coatings are manufactured using PFAS chemicals, which persist in the environment long after the pan has been thrown away.

The Case for PFAS Free, Chemical Free Cooking

Switching to PFAS free cookware — like vitreous enamel — means you're choosing a cooking surface that contains no synthetic chemicals, no coatings that can flake or degrade, and no 'forever chemicals' that linger in your body or the environment.

Here's why it makes sense:

• Completely chemical free. Vitreous enamel is made by fusing glass to steel at high temperatures. The result is a naturally smooth, non-porous surface with no synthetic coatings whatsoever.
• Safe at high temperatures. Unlike non-stick coatings, enamel doesn't break down or release fumes when used at oven temperatures. It's built for the heat.
• Scratch resistant and durable. Enamel surfaces are tough enough for metal utensils and daily use, without the risk of flaking or chipping that comes with non-stick coatings.
• Better for the environment. Because enamel cookware lasts longer and contains no PFAS, it's a more sustainable choice — less waste, fewer chemicals entering the food chain.
• Easy to clean. The smooth enamel surface is naturally easy to wipe clean and fully dishwasher safe, so you don't sacrifice convenience for safety.

Making the Switch

Switching to PFAS free cookware doesn't mean giving up performance. Our enamel bakeware and roasting ranges — including products from Baker & Salt, Sizzll, Wham, and BetterWare — are designed to deliver outstanding results in the oven, on the hob, and on the BBQ, without a synthetic coating in sight.

Whether you're roasting a Sunday joint, baking a traybake, or grilling sausages, you can cook with complete confidence knowing your cookware is 100% PFAS free and PTFE free.

Because great cooking should never come with a side of chemicals.