PTFE (Teflon)
Also known as: Teflon, Polytetrafluoroethylene, Non-stick coating
The non-stick coating on most pans. Part of the PFAS "forever chemical" family that accumulates in your body.
Why it's harmful
PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is a fluoropolymer — a chain of carbon atoms completely surrounded by fluorine atoms. This makes it extremely stable and slippery.
The problem with stability: PTFE doesn't break down. Not in your body, not in the environment. The half-life of some PFAS in humans is 4-8 years.
When it degrades: PTFE begins breaking down at 260C (500F) — a temperature easily reached when preheating or cooking on high heat. Overheating releases toxic fumes including PFOA and ultrafine particles.
Polymer fume fever: Inhaling PTFE fumes causes flu-like symptoms in humans. It kills pet birds within minutes — canaries in the coal mine.
Scratched pans: Once the coating is scratched, PTFE and PFAS particles shed directly into food. Studies found thousands of microplastic particles released from a single scratched pan.
PFOA connection: PTFE was historically manufactured using PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), a known carcinogen. Though PFOA is now banned in manufacturing, it persists in older cookware and the environment.
Where it's found
- -Non-stick cookware coatings
- -Waterproof fabric treatments
- -Industrial lubricants
- -Food packaging coatings
Why avoid it
PTFE is a forever chemical that accumulates in your body. When heated or scratched, it releases toxic particles directly into food.