There has been a rapid growing trend in 2024 with consumers looking for PFAS free non-toxic products. One of the first ports of call is getting rid of toxic cookware that could be leaching into your food. We have carried out extensive testing on 7 different acclaimed non-toxic cookware sets in the market and these 3 are what we would recommend.
For those that don't know, PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used in various consumer products, including cookware. These chemicals are known for their non-stick and water-repellent properties. However, concerns have been raised about their potential health and environmental effects, leading to a growing demand for PFAS-free alternatives in cookware and other products. These are the best sets we have found that are PFAS free.
Made In 6-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Experience the best in market non-toxic sets with precision cooking with the ultra-conductive starter set from Made In, designed to elevate your culinary creations. Crafted with five layers of metal for superior heat distribution, this set ensures even cooking results every time. The stay-cool handles provide comfort and safety during use.
Each piece in this collection is equipped with a 100% non-toxic nonstick coating, free from harmful PFOAs, guaranteeing a healthier cooking experience. The set includes two 10-inch frying pans, one stainless steel and one nonstick, offering versatility in your kitchen. Additionally, it features 2-quart and 8-quart saucepans, each accompanied by a lid for added convenience.
The stainless steel pieces are oven-safe up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit, while the nonstick pieces can withstand temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring durability and versatility in various cooking methods.
Our testing revealed that the stainless clad construction delivers rapid, uniform heating without any hot spots, allowing for effortless cooking. Whether sautéing vegetables or simmering rice, the pans provide exceptional non-stick performance, while the pour spout minimizes spills.
While the nonstick pieces are not dishwasher-safe, they are easy to hand-wash, requiring minimal effort for cleaning, and leaving no stubborn residues behind.
In conclusion, the Made In starter set offers a premium cooking experience with its innovative design and exceptional performance. With features such as stay-cool handles, five layers of metal for precise heating, and non-toxic nonstick coatings, this set stands out for its quality and versatility. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, the Made In set provides the tools you need to elevate your culinary creations.
Dishwasher-safe: Yes for steel pieces, hand-wash for nonstick | Material: Stainless steel | Induction-friendly: Yes
Le Creuset Steel Cookware Set
Indulge in the Mercedes Benz of cook sets with the Le Creuset stainless steel set, a stunning ensemble that marries aesthetic appeal with top-tier performance. Boasting a comprehensive array of ten pieces, this set is a testament to Le Creuset's commitment to quality craftsmanship.
The set's standout feature is its PFAS free three-layer construction, engineered to prevent scorching and ensure consistent heat distribution. With a layer of aluminum sandwiched between two layers of stainless steel, each piece promotes even cooking, allowing you to achieve culinary perfection with every dish.
Adding to its charm, the lids of this set bear Le Creuset's iconic three-ring design and easy-grab knobs. Equipped with built-in steam vents, they effectively prevent overflow, ensuring hassle-free cooking experiences.
Versatility is a hallmark of the Le Creuset set, with each piece oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. The fry pan even boasts the ability to withstand the intense heat of a broiler, expanding your cooking horizons.
During testing, we were impressed by the set's lightweight nature, making it a simple to maneuver around the kitchen. The generously sized stockpot provided ample space for stirring, allowing for effortless meal preparation. Comfortable handles, strategically positioned away from heat sources, remained cool to the touch, prioritizing safety without compromising on usability.
To evaluate sticking, we subjected the set to rigorous sautéing tests with vegetables and rice. While minor adhesion occurred, the quick release properties ensured that it didn't hinder our overall satisfaction with the set. The gradual and easily controllable heat facilitated precise cooking, with vegetables sautéing and browning to perfection without the risk of burning.
Maintaining the set's pristine condition is a breeze, with leftover food residues effortlessly lifting off with a simple sponge and hot soapy water. Alternatively, for those pressed for time, the pans are dishwasher-safe, offering added convenience without compromising on performance.
In conclusion, the Le Creuset stainless steel set is a worthy investment for both novice cooks and seasoned culinary enthusiasts. With its blend of aesthetic appeal, exceptional performance, and ease of maintenance, this set promises to elevate your cooking experience to new heights. Whether it's a starter set or an upgrade, investing in the Le Creuset set is a decision you won't regret.
Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Material: Stainless steel and aluminum core | Induction-friendly: Yes
GreenPan Valencia Pro 11 Piece Cookware Set
Elevate your cooking experience with the GreenPan Valencia Pro 11 Piece Cookware Set, a sophisticated ensemble that combines style with exceptional performance. Crafted with precision engineering and thoughtful design, this set is a testament to GreenPan's dedication to innovation and sustainability.
At the heart of the Valencia Pro set lies its revolutionary coating, crafted without PFAS, ensuring a healthier cooking environment without compromising on quality. This eco-friendly approach not only benefits your well-being but also the planet, making it a choice you can feel good about.
Comprising eleven essential pieces, including fry pans, saucepans, a sauté pan, and stockpot, this set offers versatility to tackle any culinary task with ease. Each piece features GreenPan's signature hard-anodized aluminum construction, delivering superior heat distribution for perfect results every time.
One of the standout features of the Valencia Pro set is its exceptional non-stick performance. During testing, we found that even delicate foods like fish and eggs slid effortlessly off the surface, requiring minimal oil for cooking. The durable coating also proved resilient against scratches and abrasions, ensuring longevity and durability.
The ergonomic handles of the Valencia Pro set are designed for comfort and ease of use, providing a secure grip and staying cool to the touch even during prolonged cooking sessions. Additionally, the tempered glass lids with stainless steel rims allow for easy monitoring of the cooking progress while trapping heat and flavors for delicious results.
Clean-up is extremely easy with the Valencia Pro set, thanks to its effortless food release and dishwasher-safe design. Whether you prefer hand-washing or utilizing the dishwasher, maintaining the set's pristine condition is hassle-free, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
In conclusion, the GreenPan Valencia Pro 11 Piece Cookware Set is a must-have for any kitchen enthusiast seeking high-quality cookware that is both eco-conscious and performance-driven. With its PFAS-free coating, superior non-stick performance, and durable construction, this set promises to revolutionize your cooking experience and inspire culinary creativity for years to come. It also provides a much easier to stomach cost compared to the others tested.
Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Material: Stainless steel and aluminum core | Induction-friendly: Yes
How We Tested
Heat Distribution: The ability of the cookware to distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface, preventing hot spots and ensuring consistent cooking results.
Non-stick Performance: How well the non-stick coating performed in preventing food from sticking to the surface, as well as its durability and resistance to scratches and abrasions.
Non-Toxicity: The assurance that the materials used in the cookware were free from harmful chemicals such as PFAS and PFOAs, ensuring a safe cooking environment.
Comfort and Handling: The ergonomic design of the handles and overall ease of handling, including their ability to stay cool during cooking to prevent burns.
Durability: The overall construction and durability of the cookware, including its resistance to warping, denting, and corrosion over time.
Cleaning and Maintenance: The ease of cleaning and maintaining the cookware, including whether it was dishwasher-safe and how well food residues could be removed.