Identifying Teflon

[carlamay]

I am preparing to replace all teflon products in my house but as I shop, I am confused as to what may have teflon in it. Is it only products that state "Teflon" on the label that I should avoid or is some of the anodized or non-stick coatings something I should not buy. I want to take no chances with my new birds...when I get the avairy finished.

[debbie276]

It's not teflon that you are really looking for it's Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Teflon is just a name brand from DuPont. So rather then look for teflon on the label look for PTFE

Good luck trying to replace all teflon products, it's amazing what contains teflon. Here's a web page of just some of the things containing teflon: http://www2.dupont.com/Teflon/en_US/products/index.html

[carlamay]

Thanks - I am going to replace 3 skillets this weekend and I will look for PTFE!

[Sally]

I love cast iron for skillets, but have to admit they are heavy. I didn't even think about all the other things that are non-stick, I was just thinking stovetop cookware. I have lots of non-stick bakeware, I wonder if that would be OK. Considering that it takes high temps to release any bad fumes, and normally I am baking at 325-375, maybe rarely at 400, I'm hoping my Wilton bakeware will pass the test.

[carlamay]

Well, I have been shopping and was very surprised to find that it is not that difficult - or expensive- to replace your teflon cookware with non-PTFE or PTOA pieces. I have found that the best selection of the earth-friendly, non toxic items are at the "discount" places like Ross, Marshall's and TJ Maxx. The items labeled "hard anodized" are safe, as is some of the Calphalon items, the Rachel Ray items and the "Green" items. I ended up buying a really nice heavy weight 12" skillet at TJ Maxx under the brand of Ecolution for $15.00. When I looked at Macy's over Labor Day, the selection of eco-friendly products was quite limited and Very Expensive. I saw that the Italian Made cookware featured at Ross was mostly free of the harmful chemicals. So,as I replace my teflon that is worn out, I will be choosing bird-safe pieces just in case....

[debbie276]

I'm glad it wasn't that hard to find and there are many options out there.