PFAS-free pans: why choose them for healthier cooking?

Today, more and more of us want to eat better, consume better... and cook better. But have you ever thought about what's actually in your cookware? PFAS , the chemicals found in many non-stick pans, raise serious health and environmental concerns. Fortunately, there are healthy, effective, and sustainable alternatives : PFAS-free pans .

In this article, I explain what PFAS are, why you should avoid them, and which pans to use for safe cooking.

What are PFAS and why are they problematic?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a family of more than 4,000 synthetic chemical compounds. Used since the 1950s for their non-stick, waterproofing, and heat-resistant properties, they are found in pans, but also in textiles, food packaging, cosmetics, and more.

Among them, the best known is PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) , long used to make non-stick coatings for Teflon pans. This compound was banned in the European Union in 2020 due to its toxicity and persistence in the environment and the human body.

The problem is that even though some brands now claim to be "PFOA-free," they often use other PFAS substitutes, the long-term effects of which are still poorly understood. However, these substances accumulate in the body , contaminate soils, groundwater, wildlife, etc. They are nicknamed "eternal pollutants."

What are the best alternatives to stoves with PFAS?

Fortunately, there are several safe, high-performance, and 100% PFAS- and PFOA-free materials available. Here are the top alternatives recommended by healthy cooking experts:

🔸 Stainless steel pans

Stainless steel pans are perfect for searing, simmering, or roasting. Uncoated, they are non-toxic , durable, and highly durable. With a little practice, they deliver excellent cooking results without any health risks.

🔸 Cast iron pans (enameled or not)

Cast iron is an ancient, naturally healthy material. A seasoned cast iron pan naturally becomes non-stick. The enameled version requires no special maintenance and does not release any harmful substances. It is perfect for slow, flavorful cooking.

🔸 Steel sheet pans

Often used in professional kitchens, sheet steel pans are sturdy and heat up very quickly. Like cast iron, they must be seasoned to become non-stick. They contain no PFAS and last for years.

🔸 Ceramic stoves

Ceramic-coated pans are a modern alternative to Teflon. They offer a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that's free of fluoride and PFAS. Be careful, however, to choose reliable brands: not all ceramics are created equal.

🔸 Copper pans

A noble material par excellence, copper ensures ultra-precise cooking thanks to its exceptional conductivity. It is often used with a stainless steel or tin interior. If well maintained, it is a PFAS-free choice, both aesthetic and high-performance.

Why choosing a PFAS-free pan is a real lifestyle choice

Choosing a PFAS-free pan isn't just about changing your equipment: it's about making a strong gesture for your health, your family and the environment .

• ✅ You avoid exposure to potentially carcinogenic and endocrine-disrupting substances.

• ✅ You reduce chemical pollution in your home and in nature.

• ✅ You invest in durable and repairable utensils, often manufactured locally or in Europe.

• ✅ You rediscover the pleasure of authentic cuisine , respectful of ingredients and seasons.

A committed selection for responsible cooking

At Amphitria , we select only PFAS-free stoves, without compromise . We favor ethical brands, European manufacturing, and high-quality materials. Each stove is chosen for its technical qualities, durability, and reduced environmental impact.

👉 In summary:

A PFAS-free pan is the starting point for more conscious, healthier and more respectful cooking.
And that's exactly what you'll find in our dedicated collection, discover it HERE !