Teflon pans are cooking pans that have been coated with a polymer called polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE. This material repels water and keeps food from sticking. Although Teflon pans are very popular and usually inexpensive, there are some risks associated with their use if they become overheated. Also, a chemical produced during Teflon's manufacture has been shown to cause health problems in laboratory animals.
History
Teflon was first discovered in 1938 by a scientist named Roy Plunkett while attempting to develop a new type of refrigerant. One of the compounds he had created as a gas polymerized while in storage. When he opened the container, he found a solid, waxy substance that was very slippery. DuPont acquired the patent for Teflon in 1941, but it was not used to coat pots and pans until the 1950s. In recent years, the process used to apply Teflon has improved dramatically, and Teflon pans are much more durable than they once were.
Benefits
Teflon effectively prevents food from sticking, which makes cooking easier, but Teflon pans also have other advantages. Cooking with Teflon pans requires significantly less oil than cooking in regular pans, which can make food much healthier. Teflon pans are also easier to clean than uncoated pans. Food that does stick comes off easily after a brief soak.
Prevention/Solution
Teflon pans have a tendency to peel and flake if they are not treated properly. Although there is no way to replace the Teflon if it becomes damaged, Teflon pans can last for years if they are used with care. Teflon pans should be washed by hand, not in a dishwasher. Do not use metal utensils on Teflon pans, because they may scratch the surface. Scratches on Teflon surfaces tend to expand, and the coating can be ruined quickly.
Considerations
Teflon pans are particularly useful for certain types of cooking, such as stir frying, sauteeing, and cooking eggs. However, foods that must be cooked at a high temperature should not be cooked in Teflon pans because high heat can cause the coating to break down. Stainless steel and cast iron pans are better choices for searing steaks and pan-grilling.
Warning
Overheated Teflon can break down, causing particles of PTFE to enter the air. Inhaled particles of PTFE can cause a mild respiratory illness in humans and other mammals, but can be rapidly fatal to pet birds. Teflon begins to break down at 536° Fahrenheit and rapidly enters the surrounding air at approximately 600 to 650° F. This temperature is only likely to be reached if Teflon pans are used over high heat or are boiled dry. Most veterinarians recommend that you not use Teflon pans at all if you have pet birds.
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