Some of the questions I’m asked frequently as so many of you transform your kitchens are:  What cookware is safe? If plastic is bad, what should I use to store leftovers? I’ve heard Teflon is bad, but what should I replace it with? How do you keep your food from sticking if you don’t use Teflon? What about bakeware? Is aluminum okay?

And on it goes.

During the next few weeks, I will be addressing many of these questions and sharing how I have transformed my kitchen through the years. Key words: through the years.  We might all have the desire to throw out everything we have and replace it all right away with safer items. But realistically, you may just have to do this in stages. Shucks, it’s no fun to be practical. ;)

Today I’ll start by talking about cookware.

Teflon and other non-stick knock-offs are only bad for you when heated. This means that looking at Teflon will not hurt you. Cooking food in it will. Bummer, huh?

How is Teflon harmful? When heated, it emits dangerous chemicals and toxic gases. Ever heard of pets dying as a direct result of living in a home which uses Teflon? It’s true. I’ve read it from multiple sources. :(  While people aren’t dropping dead immediately from this poison, we do suffer the harmful effects over time.

I highly recommend working away from using non-stick pots, pans, and skillets – making the trade to Stainless Steel and Cast Iron. Both are proven to be safe and both are wonderful to work with in the kitchen!

Stainless Steel

I had a lovely set of Pampered Chef non-stick cookware and I was sad to give it up. Eventually, I was able to replace it with a very simple and inexpensive set of Stainless Steel cookware, much like this set. Isn’t it pretty?!

I think it’s worth mentioning that while you do want high quality cookware, you don’t have to get top of the line. My inexpensive set has lasted for years and is looking to last me many more.

Cast Iron

Admittedly, it’s tough to make scrambled eggs or pancakes on stainless steel. Cast Iron to the rescue!

Not only is cast iron safe, I love how it cooks food and helps create wonderful flavor. I have two favorite pieces of cast iron:  a large skillet and a griddle.

Lids aren’t necessary, but they sure are nice!

This griddle is super nice (I have one very similar which is also double sided). The size means I can crank out three times as many pancakes at one time than I can in a regular skillet, and when I butter the griddle well, the pancakes turn out great!

Now, with my nice collection of stainless steel and cast iron, I love knowing my food is being cooked safely. Again, be practical with your budget and take baby steps toward making these healthy changes.

What is your favorite kind of safe cookware?

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