What types of glass can be found in kitchenware?
There are several types of glass that are commonly used in kitchenware, including:
- Borosilicate glass – This type of glass is known for its strength and durability, and is resistant to thermal shock. It is often used for baking dishes, casserole dishes, and other oven-safe kitchenware.
- Tempered glass – This type of glass is treated with heat and chemicals to make it stronger and more resistant to breaking. It is often used for baking dishes, casserole dishes, and other oven-safe kitchenware.
- Soda-lime glass – This is the most common type of glass and is often used for dishes, cups, and other tableware. It is not as strong or durable as borosilicate or tempered glass, and is not recommended for use in the oven.
- Crystal – This type of glass is made from leaded soda-lime glass and is known for its clarity and brilliance. It is often used for decorative purposes and is not recommended for use in the oven. Fun Fact! In 16th century Italy, it was believed that crystal glass had poison detecting properties:
For it was believed that goblets and glassware made on the Murano island in Venice would shiver and shatter when poison was poured into them. In this way, if you weren’t wealthy enough to pay someone to taste your food just in case of fatal flavorings, your trusty Venetian glassware would explode in warning.
https://hyperallergic.com/110317/a-delicate-savior-when-venetian-glass-was-believed-to-be-a-poison-detector/
There are other types of patented glass such as Pyrex®, it is defined on the company’s website as:
The Pyrex® glass is unique. It is a borosilicate glass that is tempered, of superior quality and has a great thermal and mechanical shock resistance. It is perfectly adapted to extreme temperatures, from –40° to 300°, and has a high thermal shock resistance that can go up to 220°.
All the Pyrex® glass products can be used safely in the oven and freezer and the other way around. It defies all culinary expectations, from prepping to serving directly, by going through a whole cooking process, to storing and reheating.
https://www.pyrex.eu/pages/a-unique-glass
Glass kitchenware is a popular choice because it is non-reactive, safe for use with food, and easy to clean. However, it is important to handle glass kitchenware with care to avoid breaking it.
To ensure safety, it is best to avoid colored glass, as some paints might be toxic.