When you're buying new cookware, there's more to consider than just looks. Sure, you shop with your eyes first, but purchasing an eco-friendly ceramic cooking pot could be just what you need. Ceramic-coated pots and pans are already a great choice because they're easy to use and make cleanup a breeze, but not all of them are created equal, especially when it comes to possible toxins.
If you want to make an eco-conscious purchase at your favorite home goods store, look for pots and pans that are toxin-free and devoid of metals like lead and cadmium. Ideal products typically won't have PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), also known as Teflon. Yes, this is what makes many pans nonstick, but it can be toxic. You'll want to check for PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), as well. It's commonly used on pots and pans but can be harmful.
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And if you're concerned that cookware without Teflon won't have that nonstick power, don't be! Plenty of brands have started using alternative options. One, in particular, Thermolon, makes cleanup easy but is also good to the planet. Check out some of our favorite selections ahead.
This massive set of pots and pans is composed of hard-anodized aluminum with a ceramic finish. The best part about this cookware, though, is that each item is free of PTFE and PFOA. Plus, the ceramic finish is water-based, so it won't scratch off or be tough to wipe down.
GreenPan is known for being a high-quality, eco-friendly brand, and this set of two ceramic cooking pots is made without PFAs, PFOA, lead, or cadmium. Plus, both the one-quart and two-quart options are incredibly sleek.
Caraway Home's set of ceramic cooking pots is going to be an investment — on sale, the collection is just under $400. But you're not only getting attractive kitchenware that deserves to be displayed, you're also getting a high-quality set that's eco-friendly, too. The products are free of PFOA, PTFE, other PFAs, lead, cadmium, nickel, and toxic metals.
Ozeri makes a wide selection of eco-friendly ceramic cooking pots, so there are plenty to choose from. We like this wok especially because it can handle large servings and is completely free of PTFE and PFOA. Plus, the bright green color would look great sitting out on the kitchen stove.
If you're looking for larger cookware, check out this saute pot, complete with a "helper handle." As to be expected with GreenPan products, this option is coated in Thermolon, the nontoxic, eco-friendly ceramic material. It'll make cooking — especially large quantities of meal prep — a breeze.
There's a lot to love about this GreenChef ceramic cooking pot. First of all, it's dishwasher safe. And while it's not necessarily the best idea to throw your pots in the dishwasher every time you use them, it's nice to know you can. Moreover, this product has a ceramic coating that's free of PFAs, PFOA, lead, and cadmium, which means you won't have to worry about toxins while you're cooking.
What's cool about the ceramic coating on this set of GreenLife pots and pans is that it's derived from sand and free of all the nasty stuff. Plus, the fun turquoise color will definitely make a statement in any kitchen. And you can't beat the price!
While some popular ceramic brands use glazes that contain toxic heavy metals and cadmium, Emile Henry does not. Additionally, the eco-friendly One Pot from this French line can go straight from the freezer to the stovetop or oven because it was designed to resist thermal shock. We love that it's the perfect size for dinner (think: soups and pasta) as well as breakfast dishes (like grits or oatmeal). And the classic style is a treat to look at.