Nonstick (PTFE) Cookware
High burden — Nonstick (PTFE) Cookware is a significant avoidable exposure.
Teflon-type nonstick pans.
The breakdown
Each driver rated 0 (none) to 10 (worst)
Evidence strength: strong · Detox Score = 100 − hazard×4.6 − exposure×3.4 − persistence×2.6, clamped 1–100.
What this means for you
A Detox Score of 31 places nonstick (ptfe) cookware in the High band. The persistence rating is the standout concern here — these compounds linger in the body and environment for years. Scratched or overheated nonstick can shed PFAS-family compounds — the 'forever chemicals' that persist in the body and environment for years.
Frequently asked questions
Is nonstick (ptfe) cookware a toxic exposure?
Nonstick (PTFE) Cookware has a Detox Score of 31 out of 100 (High burden), which means it is a significant avoidable exposure. Scratched or overheated nonstick can shed PFAS-family compounds — the 'forever chemicals' that persist in the body and environment for years.
What is a safer alternative to nonstick (ptfe) cookware?
A lower-exposure swap for nonstick (ptfe) cookware is: Cast iron or stainless steel. Scratched or overheated nonstick can shed PFAS-family compounds — the 'forever chemicals' that persist in the body and environment for years.
Lower-exposure choices
More in Kitchen
The science behind this entry
Guides in the Science Library that discuss this exposure.