However, the release of these fumes is due to the breakdown of the PTFE coating at high temperatures. If a Teflon-coated pan is heated to over 500 degrees Fahrenheit, the coating can begin to break down and release fumes.
This can happen if the pan is left on a high heat for an extended period of time, or if it is heated while empty.
Inhaling these fumes may lead to polymer fume fever, also known as the Teflon flu.
To avoid the release of toxic fumes, it is recommended that Teflon-coated cookware be used at low to medium temperatures and that it not be left on a high heat for an extended period of time.
It is also recommended that the pan not be heated while empty, as this can cause the coating to break down more quickly.
2. Potential damage to the lungs
Lung damage and other more severe side effects of exposure to overheated Teflon have also been documented in a small number of case studies.
However, in all of the cases that were reported, people were exposed to fumes from overheated Teflon cookware for at least 4 hours (20 Trusted Source, 22 Trusted Source, 23 Trusted Source) at temperatures as high as 730°F (390°C).
Even though Teflon that has been overheated might have harmful consequences on your health, you can prevent exposure by employing common sense when cooking.
3. Old Teflon pots
Another concern about Teflon is that the PTFE coating can scratch or wear off over time. When this happens, the nonstick properties of the pan can be reduced and it may become more difficult to clean.
If the coating is scratched or worn off, it is recommended that the pan be replaced, as cooking on a damaged Teflon surface can release toxic fumes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Teflon’s safety cannot be determined based on long-term studies at this time.
There has been relatively little research done on the new formulation, which has only been around for a few years.
There are many vested interests when it comes to something like Teflon cookware, so it can take a while before important health information is discovered.
