Why I’m Ditching My Old Frying Pan For IKEA’s Latest Cookware

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I’ve been using the IKEA KAVALKAD frying pan for some years now. It’s a handy pan – affordable, light, and does the job well enough. I’ve been replacing one KAVALKAD after another when the coating wears off, but now, I’m ditching it for good.

Why? It has PFAS.

What You Need To Know About PFAS

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of manufactured chemicals widely used in various industries due to their ability to resist heat, water, and oil. However, recent scientific research indicates that exposure to certain PFAS may lead to adverse health outcomes. For instance, studies have shown that these substances can be linked to a variety of health effects, including altered immune function, cholesterol changes, and increased risk of certain cancers. The persistence of PFAS in the environment and their tendency not to degrade over time raises concerns about their long-term impact.

PFAS exposure

We can unknowingly ingest PFAS through other means besides the frying pan. We can drink water from PFAS-contaminated municipal sources or eat fish from contaminated waters. These persistent little chemicals are also found in all sorts of everyday items—beauty products like shampoo, dental floss, nail polish, and eye makeup. Stain-resistant fabrics like carpets and a rain jacket may have PFAS. Certain paints, varnishes, and sealants may add PFAS to make them last longer and easily cleanable.

It may not be possible to eliminate exposure to PFAS completely, but if I can reduce the toxic burden on my body, I’d definitely try.

The Good Pan

IKEA has been working since 2009 to phase out PFAS, and they recently launched new cookware with an alternative coating that’s kind to our bodies and planet. The latest products—HEMKOMST, MIDDAGSMAT, and HUSKNUT—come with a ceramic non-stick coating called sol-gel. Made from naturally occurring minerals, the ceramic coating does not emit toxic fumes, even when heated to high temperatures. This property makes them a safer alternative for both indoor air quality and the environment.

What’s Sol-gel?

Sol-gel ceramic coatings are mainly made of silica. The coating is applied as a gel and then hardened in an oven, creating a durable and non-stick surface for cooking. This coating offers several advantages over traditional non-stick coatings, such as those containing PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), which tends to break down under prolonged high heat, releasing toxic chemicals into the air.

“The new range is just the beginning of our journey in phasing out PTFE in cookware and bakeware. By 2026, all our cookware and bakeware will be non-PTFE,” says Jonatan Elofsson, Range Area Manager Cooking & Eating, IKEA of Sweden AB.   

Look For Ceramic Coated Pans

IKEA launched these shiny new ceramic-coated pans in April 2024. Look for the HEMKOMST, MIDDAGSMAT, and HUSKNUT with the sol-gel ceramic coating. The older version of the range may still be available on the shelves, so check the labels for the coating material listed as sol-gel.

How Often Should You Change Your Non-Stick Pan?

Even if you get the new ceramic-coated pans, they are not meant to last forever. It’s time to swap out your non-stick pan (ceramic or otherwise) when you notice these telltale signs that it has seen better days. Ditch your pan if it is showing these signs:

Dark discoloration or deep scratches

Dark discoloration and deep scratches on your frying pan are more than just cosmetic issues. These marks can indicate that the non-stick coating is deteriorating. When the coating wears off, it exposes the underlying metal, which may react with food, potentially causing contamination. Moreover, scratches can harbor bacteria and food particles, making it difficult to clean the pan thoroughly. Over time, this can lead to health risks, especially if the pan is used to cook foods at high temperatures.

The surface is beginning to peel, flake, or chip

If your frying pan’s surface is peeling, flaking, or chipping, it’s a clear sign that the non-stick coating has degraded significantly. When these fragments mix with your food, they can pose serious health hazards. Ingesting these particles, particularly if the coating contains harmful chemicals like PFAS or PTFE, can lead to digestive issues and more severe long-term health problems. Additionally, a compromised coating means the pan is no longer providing non-stick benefits, making cooking and cleaning more challenging.

Food sticking to the surface when you cook

One of the primary benefits of a non-stick pan is its ability to cook food without sticking. If you notice that food is consistently sticking to the surface, it means the non-stick coating has worn off. This not only affects your cooking experience but also indicates that the pan is no longer functioning as intended. Cooking on a worn-out, non-stick surface can lead to uneven heating and burning, which can affect the taste and quality of your meals. Moreover, it can lead to the release of harmful substances if the pan’s coating is compromised.

Warping of the base

Warping occurs when the base of the frying pan is no longer flat and even. This can happen due to sudden temperature changes or prolonged use at high temperatures. A warped pan doesn’t sit evenly on the stove, leading to uneven cooking and potential hot spots that can burn your food. Moreover, a warped base can strain your stove’s heating elements, potentially causing damage over time. Cooking with a warped pan can also be hazardous, as it may become unstable and tip over, increasing the risk of burns and spills.

How Long Do Non-Stick Pans Last?

Generally speaking, traditional non-stick pans last anywhere from two to five years, depending on the quality of the coating. Ceramic-coated pans typically last about one to three years, but this can vary depending on how much love (or tough love) you give your cookware. So, give your pans a little check-up now and then, and keep your kitchen a safe place to whip up healthy meals.

Alternative To Non-Stick Pans

If IKEA’s new ceramic-coated non-stick pans are not your jam, there are several great alternatives to non-stick pans that offer various benefits in terms of health, durability, and cooking performance. Let’s explore some of these options.

1. Stainless Steel Pans

Stainless steel pans are incredibly durable and can last a lifetime if properly cared for. They resist chipping, warping, and scratching. These pans are suitable for a wide range of cooking techniques, including searing, browning, sautéing, and deglazing.

Stainless steel doesn’t react with acidic or alkaline foods, ensuring that your meals remain safe and uncontaminated. While they require a bit more effort to clean, they can be lightly scrubbed without fear of damaging the surface.

IKEA carries a number of stainless steel cookware, from the cheap ANNONS 5-piece cookware set to the top-of-the-range SENSUELL collection and their popular 365+ range.

2. Cast Iron Pans

Cast iron pans retain heat exceptionally well, making them perfect for tasks that require steady, even heat, such as frying and baking. They can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, and even over an open flame, making them highly versatile.

When properly seasoned, cast iron pans develop a natural non-stick surface that improves with use. These pans are nearly indestructible and can last for generations with proper care. Cooking with cast iron can add a small amount of iron to your diet, which can be beneficial for those with iron deficiencies.

At IKEA, look for the VARDAGEN cast-iron cookware range.

3. Carbon Steel Pans

Carbon steel pans are lighter than cast iron but offer similar benefits in terms of heat retention and durability. These pans are great for high-heat cooking and can be used for frying, sautéing, and even baking.

Like cast iron, carbon steel pans develop a natural non-stick surface with proper seasoning. They are highly durable and can withstand high temperatures without warping.

The VARDAGEN frying pan range is made of carbon steel and is lighter than its cast iron counterpart. A good alternative if you’re looking for a handy, everyday pan.