Cookware advancements constantly made a lot of new cookware available. And, some of the cookware recently introduced provides us with improvements to non-stick interiors, colored surfaces, dishwasher compatibility, amongst many other features.
However, several concerns have been raised about the safety of several components introduced into these pots and pans during manufacture.
So, should we go back to the conventional models?
No. Understandably, while older models have their advantages, not all are rust and corrosion resistant. And, some contain harmful chemicals like lead that compromises your food quality and health.
They also mostly do not possess any of the ergonomic features we cannot do without anymore.
The healthiest cookware on the market are all in one place.
Where, you may ask?
Right here, in this healthiest cookware review that we have compiled just for you!
Safe to use, they also do not compromise on design and modern features.
So, let’s scroll through them together and find the Healthiest Cookware for you…
How Safe Is Stainless Steel Cookware?
Stainless steel is an iron alloy to which chromium is added. It is the proportion of chromium that comes first in the name of steel. In the culinary field, it is generally 18%.
Why this proportion?
Simply because it offers to steel a very high resistance to corrosion, it is this chromium (also called chromium oxide) that allows the stainless steel to become stainless.
Nickel is also added to give ductility to steel, that is to say, flexibility and therefore resistance.
All of these component parts do not react in any way to foods, even at high heat levels. It is thus safe to say that food-grade steel; marked 18/10 and 18/8 are 100 percent safe to use.
There’s a catch…
While stainless steel remains one of the best materials used in the manufacture of cookware for its durability and aesthetic appeal, unlike nonstick pans, it can be difficult to clean if it is not taken care of properly.
It is therefore important to establish a cleaning routine for your stainless steel cooking utensils. And learn how to effectively clean stubborn stains as soon as you find them.
Stainless has a fine finish which makes for a natural non-stick. However, some particular food types will still stick to its interior surface.
It is possible to oil the stainless steel pans to make them non-stick, which will prevent the food from sticking and facilitate easy cleaning. But, if you ever encounter stuck foods, simply soaking the pot/pan for a while is enough to release them.
How Safe Is Cast Iron Cookware?
There is a lot to discuss concerning cast iron cookware as a healthy cookware choice. We have, however, covered all the basic FAQs below:
Why Cook In Cast Iron?
Today, natural cast iron is one of the healthiest material for kitchen utensils. It is an alloy of iron and carbon that poses no risk to health. Naturally anti-adherent, cast iron utensils allow healthy cooking without adding oil.
Why Isn’t Traditional Non-Stick Cookware Healthy?
For two main reasons:
a) A large number of chemical substances are used in the composition of non-stick coatings which pose a risk to your health.
b) Non-stick coatings are fragile and can be damaged extremely quickly, rendering your utensils unusable.
Are Nonstick Coatings Really Dangerous To Health?
Teflon contains a compound called PFOA, which has been recognized as a health risk. This component is an endocrine disruptor, and it presents carcinogenic risks.
Is Enameled Cast Iron Not A Better Solution?
No. The enamel covering the cast iron is fragile. It’s a vitreous coating based on silica. It does not withstand temperature extremities. Thus, with time, the enamel of your kitchen utensils will crack. It will, therefore, lose its non-stick qualities.
So, it’s not a good choice, because it only lasts a few years, or restricts you to cooking at low and medium heat levels!
Without The Coating, Will Your Food Not Stick To The Cast Iron Surface?
No. There is no need to risk your health with Teflon or other coatings. Cast iron is naturally non-stick and will remain so over the years. With each use, this non-stick property stays the same.
Cast iron gradually absorbs cooking fat in its porous surface, that strengthens its non-stick protective film over time. It can, therefore, last for an indefinite period of time.
Can I Use My Cast Iron Skillet Or Casserole On Induction Hobs?
Yes. Cast iron utensils are compatible with all fires, including induction hobs.
A little tip: to know if your cookware is compatible with an induction cooker, just place a magnet below. If the magnet holds, it means that your pot or pan can be used on an induction hob.
Can Cast Iron Utensils Be Used In An Oven?
Yes. Cast iron utensils are oven safe without any problem. Be careful though, do not put utensils in the oven with a wooden handle that could burn or one that has plastic parts that can melt.
However, cast iron utensils, are not microwave safe.
Is The Maintenance Of My Cast Iron Utensils Complicated?
No. It is very simple to maintain your cast iron utensils. Just make sure to grease (cooking oil, butter, margarine, etc.) them before use.
To wash them: nothing could be more simple. After each use, you can decide to clean your utensil without soap. A sponge and hot water are usually enough.
Then dry well with a cloth or paper towel.
Is There A Difference Between Cast Iron And Cast Aluminum?
Yes. It is a completely different material. Cast iron is a ferrous alloy, composed of iron and carbon, without any health risk.
On the other hand, cast aluminum has nothing to do with cast iron. It is an alloy mainly composed of aluminum, melted then molded.
Like lead, aluminum ingested is not removed by the body. However, some acidic foods (tomatoes, citrus fruits, etc.) absorb aluminum during cooking.
Aluminum, commonly used, is coated. It has superficial properties, and as such is very useful in cooking and cookware types.
How Safe Is Ceramic Cookware?
Ceramic pots and pans give your kitchen a classic look. Certified without PTFE or PFOA, ceramic coated cookware is sold as “green utensils” for our kitchen. The manufacturing process of this cookware type is also environmentally friendly.
Ceramic cookware requires little or no fat and allows effective cooking at low temperatures. This makes them a healthy choice.
Ceramic cookware contains no toxic agent. This is totally true, as they are mainly made of water and silica, both of which pose no health risk to man.
They are designed to resist wear, scuffing, and corrosion so does not deteriorate to cause any negative health impact over time.
However, this cookware type requires some maintenance. Remember that ceramic is just a coat and while safe, exposing the utensil core compromises the quality of your cookware, and possibly your food.
It is therefore important to use and maintain it with care because of its fragility. Here are a few tips:
- Do not to let it heat up empty.
- From time to time, add oil to the pan for longer anti-stick efficiency.
- Always leave the pan to cool before immersing in water for cleaning. You could damage the coating by plunging it in while still hot.
- Remember also that with this type of coating not to use the abrasive side of your sponge. Also, avoid using metal utensils and sharp objects (knives and metal spatulas) with ceramic cookware.
However, you should note that several newer ceramic cookware models are metal utensil safe.
So, let’s take a look at these healthy cookware sets and find out which is the healthiest cookware for you…
The Healthiest Cookware Models Reviews
1. GreenPan CC000675-001 Valencia Pro Hard
The GreenPan CC000675-001 is a ceramic coated cookware type. Oven and dishwasher safe, it offers you flexibility and ease of use.
This set comprises of 11 pieces. Included are an 8inch, a 9.5-inch, an 11-inch open frypan; a 2-quart, a 3-quart covered saucepan; a 3-quart covered skillet, and a 5-quart covered casserole. Also included are 4 glass multi-fit lids.
This set basically covers all your cooking needs. The glass lids sit tightly to allow for faster cooking and better flavor absorption. They are transparent to allow you to effectively monitor your cooking without opening the lid.
What’s more?
The ceramic non-stick coating used in this healthiest cookware set is metal utensil safe. 100 percent chemical free (PFAS, PFOA, lead and cadmium free), you can be sure of a completely safe meal using any of the pots and pans in this set.
Also featured is a unique Magneto technology. This guarantees base stability and makes these utensils warp and scratch resistant. It also allows for even heat distribution to give you uniform cooking results.
Compatible with all stovetop types, as well as broilers, you get it all with this item.
Pros
- 11-piece set to meet all your kitchen needs.
- See-through lids to monitor cooking without losing steam.
- Super durable, metal utensil safe ceramic non-stick coating.
- Tight fitting lids allow for faster cooking and better flavor absorption.
- Chemical free.
- Warp and scratch resistant.
- Even heat distribution ensures uniform cooking.
- Oven, dishwasher, and broiler safe.
Cons
- The lid and carrying handle heat can get very hot.
- Better suited to cooking on low and medium heat settings.
2. Calphalon Contemporary Nonstick Cookware
The Calphalon Contemporary is an 11-piece set manufactured with heavy-gauge aluminum. This material type makes this product very durable and also allows for even heat distribution. This feature also makes all the pieces in this set dishwasher safe.
Included in the pack are a 10-inch fry pan, a 12-inch fry pan, and cover, a 1.5-quart saucepan, and cover, a 2.5-quart saucepan, and cover, a 3-quart saute pan and cover and an 8-quart stock pot and cover.
All the included covers are high heat resistant and are very durable. They also seal tightly to allow for faster cooking and better flavor absorption. Also, being see-through, you can monitor your cooking without opening the lid.
And, that’s not all…
This healthiest cookware set sports a three-ply non-stick coat. Two layers provide durability, and the third layer allows for easy cleaning and easy food release.
Even better, the ergonomic handles stay ever cool.
Also oven safe, as well as the covers, you can comfortably relax with this set in your kitchen.
Pros
- The heavy-duty aluminum body makes this product very durable.
- Three-ply non-stick coat for better results.
- See-through lids to monitor cooking without losing steam.
- Food safe.
- Ever cool handles.
- Tight fitting lids allow for faster cooking and better flavor absorption.
- Oven and dishwasher safe.
Cons
- Not scratch resistant.
- Better suited to cooking on low and medium heat settings.
3. Rachael Ray Hard-Anodized Nonstick
Super stylish, this Rachael Ray cookware set is packed with a lot of features. Coming in a 10-piece, 12-piece and 14-piece variant, as well as in four different colors, you get to enjoy this set in a choice you like best.
What’s more?
This healthiest cookware set is manufactured with hard-anodized aluminum. This gives it superior durability that should last for several generations. This material, however, is also responsible for the quick and even heat distribution feature you get with these pots and pans.
Even better, the handles are rubberized to allow for more comfortable use. These handles also provide you with a non-slip surface and remain ever cool to allow for safe use.
And, that’s not all…
The lids included in this cookware set are see-through. And, being shatterproof, they are obviously, very durable. Also tight sealing, you get a faster cooking time and better flavor absorption into your foods.
Oven safe (up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit), you get versatility of use with this item.
Also dishwasher safe, cleaning up afterward is made easy.
The best part?
Rachael Ray offers you a limited lifetime warranty on this product.
You shouldn’t expect less, she is a renowned cook, just like you. So she understands your needs and speaks directly to them!
Pros
- Super stylish design.
- Three sized sets and four colors to choose from.
- The hard-anodized aluminum build gives this item superior durability.
- Fast and even heat distribution.
- The rubberized handles allow for much safer use.
- Shatterproof, see-through lids to monitor cooking without losing steam.
- Tight fitting lids allow for faster cooking and better flavor absorption.
- Oven and dishwasher compatible.
- Food safe.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Quite fragile.
- The maximum oven temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit is less than a lot of cooks need.
4. Le Creuset Signature Cookware Set
The Le Creuset Signature cookware set is manufactured with enameled cast iron. And, this 5-piece set is sold in 10 colors, giving you a wide range to choose from to perfectly match your kitchen.
The colorful exterior is no child’s play though, as it both resists chipping and cracking and is very durable.
Compatible with all stovetop types, you do not need to worry about that. Also, oven compatible, when the need arises, you’ve got a utensil set that has “got your back.”
What’s more…
The interior is coated with a slightly different material. Coated with sand-colored enamel, it offers a better non-stick that never requires seasoning.
As if that is not enough, you also get ergonomic handles that provide a sure firm grip, even with mitts on.
The best part, however, is the limited lifetime warranty that accompanies the purchase of this item.
Pros
- Durable product.
- Chipping and cracking resistant.
- Oven compatible.
- Food safe.
- Maintenance free non-stick coating.
- Large, grippy handles.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Not rust resistant.
- Better suited to cooking on low and medium heat settings.
5. Ozeri Stone Earth Frying Pan
The Ozeri Stone Earth frying pan comes in three sizes; 8, 10 and 12 inches. It also comes in three colors; coconut brown, granite gray, and lava black. All look fancy and will make a fine addition to your kitchen collection.
The interiors of these healthiest cookware are all made with heavy-gauge die-cast aluminum. All stovetop compatible, they are fitted with a specially magnetized base to allow for rapid heat transfer when used with an induction cooker.
And, that’s not all…
The Ozeri cookware is chemical free (APEO, PFOA, NMP and NEP free), and is very safe to use. The stone derived non-stick coating is hardy and offers superior non-stick function.
Even better, the handles are heat resistant so are comfortable to use. Triple-riveted in place, they are safe to use as well.
Pros
- Nice design and finish.
- Three colors and packs to choose from.
- The heavy-gauge die-cast aluminum makes for superior product durability.
- A special base that allows for faster cooling on induction cookers.
- Food safe.
- Chemical free non-stick surface.
- Ever cool handles.
- Triple-riveted handles for safety.
Cons
- The single pan piece does not meet several cooking requirements.
- The non-stick feature fails after some time.
- Warps when used under high heat.
6. WearEver 2100087606 Ceramic Cookware Set
Pots of gold…
While the WearEver 2100087606 might not be the proverbial pots of gold, it really is a golden colored healthiest cookware set. The fine finish and design of this product are bound to leave you in awe.
It is sold in a set of 10 and 15 pieces respectively to meet different users needs. It also has a red variant, that is also as attractive as the gold.
Soft-touch for comfort…
The handles on this product are soft-touch for comfort. They are likewise double riveted as a safety feature.
Moving to the interior coat, this durable ceramic coating is metal utensil safe and is also chemical free (PTFE, PFOA, Cadmium and lead-free).
Offering you stain and scratch resistance on both interior and exterior surfaces, this cookware set retains its fine finish for a very long time.
And, the best part?
The base if infused with heavy-duty aluminum to give you fast and even heating.
Even better, all the lids are see-through and fit tightly. This allows for even faster cooking and better flavor absorption. Just a peek, and you see what stage your cooking is at.
Dishwasher and oven safe (up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit), you’ve got an all-around product. And with its limited lifetime warranty, you are sure of superior durability and function that does not falter.
Pros
- Nice design and finish.
- Two color and pack number variants to choose from.
- Super durable, metal utensil safe ceramic non-stick coating.
- Ergonomic, safe to use handles.
- Food safe.
- Chemical free.
- The heavy-duty aluminum base allows for fast and even heat distribution.
- See-through lids to monitor cooking without losing steam.
- Tight fitting lids allow for faster cooking and better flavor absorption.
- Dishwasher and oven safe.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- The non-stick surface gradually decreases over time.
- Not induction stovetop compatible.
- Discolors permanently when used on high heat.
- Not warp resistant.
7. Anolon Advanced Cookware Set
The Anolon Advanced is an 11-piece healthiest cookware set. Manufactured with hard anodized aluminum, it is both very durable and functional. It features a limited lifetime warranty to assure you of its quality.
Sold in a black, bronze or a gray color, you are given the flexibility of choice to perfectly match your kitchen.
Fast and even heating…
The build of this cookware set allows for its fast and even heating. You will get uniform-cooked meals done in less time with any of these cookware pieces.
To further reduce your cooking time, the tempered glass lids fit tightly. This speeds up your cooking and as well allows for better flavor absorption. The see-through lids likewise eliminate the need to open your utensil while in use, hence losing heat in the process.
Comfortable to use…
The handles offer you a firm grip when used. Its stainless steel and silicone combination makes it comfortable to use. Dual riveted, it is very safe as well.
The Anolon cookware set is tagged “advanced” for good reason.
They are non-stick inside out for easy cleaning. The interior non-stick surface requires no grease or special maintenance, so it is both easier to use, and a safe choice.
What’s more?
Oven safe, this item includes a 1.5-quart and 3-qt covered saucepan, an 8-quart covered stockpot, an 8-inch, and 10-inch open skillet. It also has a 3-quart covered saute pan and a 12-inch shallow grill pan making it a complete set for all your kitchen needs.
Pros
- The hard anodized aluminum build of this product makes it very durable.
- 11-piece set to meet all your kitchen needs.
- Three color variants to choose from.
- Fast and even heat distribution.
- See-through lids to monitor cooking without losing steam.
- Tight fitting lids allow for faster cooking and better flavor absorption.
- Ergonomic, non-slip handles.
- Interior/exterior non-stick for easy cleaning.
- Maintainance free non-stick coating.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- The coating starts flaking after a while.
- The non-stick feature diminishes gradually over time.
- Not dishwasher and induction cooker compatible.
Also Read: Kirkland Cookware Reviews
Conclusion
Health is wealth. While we might not be able to regulate a lot of things, we can at least eat right by cooking with safe cookware.
The cookware in this review offer you the healthiest cookware surface and are, therefore, the healthiest cookware you can buy. If you have made the mistake of buying a less healthy option already, it is a great idea to upgrade to safe cooking.
While still offering you all-modern design and features. Any one of these healthiest cookware brands will not only be appreciated by your body, it will be appreciated as a fine complement in your kitchen.
