Teflon is a non-stick coating made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). It is one of the most popular materials for the manufacture of pans and other kitchen utensils. Thanks to its properties, it allows for comfortable frying and baking. Teflon pans are resistant to oils, acids and high temperatures and are very easy to maintain. Everyone wants to have them in the kitchen. But what happens when the Teflon starts to loosen from the cookware?

What if the pan starts to release substances that can be hazardous to health when overheated, scratched or worn? We’ll reveal how real these concerns are and what you can do to prevent problems in the following article. In addition, we will also clarify how Teflon can be hazardous to human health.

When Teflon starts to break down

A Teflon pan is usually coated with PTFE. This is a synthetic polymer that is highly resistant to heat, with a commonly reported stability range of -190 °C to +260 °C. As a result, food does not shatter on the surface and the pans are very easy to wash. This is the main advantage: less scorching, less oil, less scrubbing.

But even this stability has its limits. If a Teflon pan is heated above a certain temperature, the polymer structure of PTFE can start to break down. This can lead to the release of gaseous and/or particulate matter into the air (when overheated) or into food (when scratched and the surface degrades).

Potential health risks

When Teflon is overheated, PTFE may decompose and release toxic gases and particles. This can cause a condition known as polymer fume fever, popularly known as Teflon flu. Typical symptoms are similar to flu, i.e. fever, chills, fatigue, headache or breathing difficulties. These effects are usually temporary.

Symptoms usually resolve within 12-48 hours. According to some reports, as many as 267 suspected cases of polymer fume fever have been reported in the US in 2023. However, the actual number is probably higher. Small animals, such as birds, may be particularly susceptible to these fumes. But they are also very dangerous for people with respiratory problems.

Teflon and non-stick coatings in general belong to a broader category of chemicals known as forever chemicals because they do not degrade in the environment or in organisms. In the past, the chemical perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) was often used to make PTFE, which some studies have linked to a higher risk of certain liver diseases, thyroid disorders, reproductive problems or even cancer.

However, as of 2013, the use of PFOA in the manufacture of most Teflon pans has been suspended, so modern non-stick pans should be a bit safer.

Do you work with Teflon pans at home every day? You may not even know what you should be careful of when handling it. ━━ Do you work with Teflon pans at home every day? You may not even know what you should be careful of when handling it. ( Source: Annie Spratt /  Unsplash+ )

How dangerous is Teflon really?

According to the latest assessment by the Bundesinstitut für Risikobewertung, consumers are exposed to a very low health risk if the pan is used correctly, i.e. if it does not overheat, scratch or damage. There may be a risk if:

  • heating an empty pan above the recommended temperature
  • you use the pan for a long time and frequently overheat it
  • the surface is scratched or damaged

It is therefore recommended today to use Teflon pans at medium to lower temperatures, never to leave an empty pan heated to full capacity and to place food on the pan only after the oil or fat has heated up.