Cookware

When you’re trying a new recipe or cooking up a storm, be mindful of the cookware you’re using. Some types of cookware can have sneaky types of chemicals that you don’t want invited to your meal!

What To Avoid

Non-stick pans:Although they are super handy, avoid non-stick pots, pans, and kitchen utensils because they are coated with a chemical called perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which can release toxic fumes when heated up. These fumes can be harmful, especially during pregnancy.

Aluminum pots and pans:Aluminum pots and pans are best avoided since cooking with them can cause small amounts of this metal to leach into your food, especially when cooking acidic or salty dishes. Too much Aluminum is not good during pregnancy either.

Plastic cooking utensils:While not exactly cookware, using plastic spoons, spatulas, or bowls to stir or heat hot food should be avoided. Some plastics can leach chemicals into your food when heated up.

Safer Choices

Stainless steel:Stainless steel cookware is a good choice because it doesn't leach harmful chemicals into your food. It's durable and safe for cooking a variety of dishes.

Cast iron:Cast iron cookware is safe to use during pregnancy. It adds a small amount of iron to your food, which can be beneficial for pregnant women.

Glass: Glass cookware, like baking dishes or casserole pans, is safe to use and won't release any harmful chemicals into your food.

Ceramic or porcelain enamel: Cookware with ceramic or porcelain enamel coatings is a safer option, but make sure it's free from Lead or cadmium.

Find Safer Products

Websites and Apps:

Clearya
Clearya is a free browser extension and app that notifies you when there are unsafe ingredients in your makeup, personal care, baby care, cleaning and other products, and helps you find safe products.

Campaign for Safe Cosmetics - Nontoxic Black Beauty Project
They offer a list and database of non-toxic beauty products made and sold by Black-owned companies that are committed to toxic-free beauty and personal care products.

Detox Me
This app allows you to scan barcodes on products to find relevant tips. They also offer a buying guide to decode product labels and find non-toxic alternatives.

Environmental Working Group (EWG)
EWG has a "Skin Deep" database that rates personal care and beauty products based on their safety and toxicity levels. EWG also offers a Healthy Living app that allows you to scan barcodes and find safer products.

Think Dirty
This app and website allow you to scan or search for personal care products to see their ingredient safety ratings.

Tags

cookware, kitchen