PFAS-Free Snack Pans

A PFAS-free frying pan contains no per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the coating or material. Examples include frying pans made of enameled cast iron, uncoated stainless steel, carbon steel, or with a mineral-based ceramic coating. They contain no PTFE, PFOA, or related synthetic substances that can be released when heated. All our tested options are available together in our collection of PFAS-free frying pans.

Naturally PFAS-free materials include: enameled cast iron (such as the Le Creuset Campagnard), uncoated cast iron, carbon steel (such as the De Buyer Mineral B), and stainless steel (such as Demeyere). Ceramic pans with a mineral-based coating contain no PTFE or PFOA, but it is worth checking that the coating is also free from lead and cadmium. At Braadbaas, we have pre-checked the materials and coatings of our PFAS-free frying pans.

Yes. The enameled cast iron Le Creuset Campagnard Signature is completely PFAS-free: the enameled coating is glass-based and contains no synthetic fluorinated compounds, lead or cadmium, and is safe at high oven temperatures. Le Creuset's ceramic-coated Essential range is also PFAS-free. Only models with a traditional non-stick coating contain PFAS; this is clearly stated on the product.

Healthy skepticism is partly justified: Consumer Reports found that some non-stick pans sold as 'PFOA-free' still contained PFOA when tested. That is why materials that are naturally PFAS-free offer the greatest peace of mind, such as cast iron, stainless steel and carbon steel, which require no synthetic coating at all. If you still choose ceramic for its convenience, look for an explicit statement that the coating is free from PFAS, PFOA, lead and cadmium. The ceramic frying pans in our range, such as those from Greenpan, Smeg and the Demeyere Alu Pro 5 Ceraforce, meet these requirements.

A regular frying pan may have a non-stick coating based on PTFE (Teflon) or other PFAS compounds. A PFAS-free frying pan is made of material without a synthetic fluorocoating, such as cast iron, stainless steel, or carbon steel, or has a mineral-based ceramic coating. Above approximately 260 °C, a traditional PTFE coating can begin to degrade and release substances; PFAS-free pans do not, making them a safer choice for high-heat cooking.

Almost all PFAS-free frying pans at Braadbaas are suitable for induction. Good choices are the Demeyere Alu Pro 5 Ceraforce (ceramic, lightweight and versatile), the Demeyere Apollo 7 or Atlantis 7 (uncoated stainless steel) and the Le Creuset Campagnard in cast iron. View all induction-compatible models side by side in the frying pans for induction collection. Heat a pan on induction gradually to prevent thermal shock.

Care varies depending on the material. Enameled cast iron, such as the Campagnard, is best washed by hand; the dishwasher will damage the enamel over time. Demeyere uncoated stainless steel is generally dishwasher-safe. Wash ceramic pans by hand with a soft sponge and do not overheat them empty. Season carbon steel with oil and dry thoroughly after each use to prevent rust; you can read how to do this in our how-to guide on seasoning carbon steel. You can find more general tips in how do I care for my pans?

That depends on the type. Cast iron, stainless steel, and carbon steel have no coating that can wear off; with proper care, these pans will last a lifetime and often improve with use. A ceramic non-stick coating does gradually weaken, especially with overheating, metal utensils, or cooking sprays. If you cook over low to medium-high heat, wash by hand, and use a little oil or butter instead of spray, even a ceramic pan will last for years.

Yes. PFAS-free materials such as cast iron, stainless steel, and carbon steel withstand very high temperatures without releasing harmful substances, making them ideal for searing meat and vegetables. Ceramic coatings are generally heat-resistant up to around 450 °C, although the handle is often the limiting factor when using them in the oven. For comparison, a traditional PTFE coating can begin to break down at temperatures as low as around 260 °C. When using the product in the oven, always check the maximum temperature specified for that particular model.

For those just starting out, a ceramic-coated frying pan is a pleasant start: light, easy to clean and immediately non-stick, such as the Demeyere Alu Pro 5 Ceraforce or a model from Greenpan. If you want to buy something once that will last a lifetime, then the Le Creuset Campagnard in cast iron and the Demeyere Apollo 7 in stainless steel are proven choices with excellent performance on any heat source.