Iron
Aluminum
Steel
Copper
Silver
Which metals are used in cookware ? Which metals are the safest ?
There are several types of metals that are commonly used in cookware, including:
- Stainless steel – This type of metal is a popular choice for cookware because it is durable, non-reactive, and easy to clean. It is also resistant to corrosion and can withstand high heat, making it a safe choice for cooking.
- Aluminum – This type of metal is lightweight, conductive, and inexpensive, making it a popular choice for cookware. However, it is reactive to acidic foods and can discolor or alter the taste of certain dishes.
- Copper – This type of metal is highly conductive and heats up quickly, making it a popular choice for high-quality cookware. However, it is reactive to acidic foods and can discolor or alter the taste of certain dishes. Copper cookware should also be coated with a protective layer to prevent leaching of copper into food.
- Cast iron – This type of metal is heavy, durable, and conducts heat well. It is also non-reactive, making it a safe choice for cooking. However, it is prone to rusting and requires special care to prevent rust from forming.
- Carbon steel – This type of metal is similar to cast iron and is also a good choice for cookware. It is lightweight, conductive, and non-reactive, but it requires special care to prevent rusting.
Overall, stainless steel and cast iron are generally considered the safest options for cookware because they are non-reactive and resistant to corrosion. Copper and aluminum can be safe to use as well, but they should be coated with a protective layer and used with caution to avoid reacting with acidic foods.
This article did not touch upon silverware, for which a dedicated post will be written.