
When should old pots and pans be thrown away?
With time and use, our pots and pans eventually wear out. Do we really have to change them regularly? If so, how often and should they be discarded?
Surely you have old pots and pans in your drawers and cabinets. While some have already retired, others are still doing well. In fact, if some iron models can be preserved for several decades, this is not the case for all models and all coatings. Some cookware, especially non-stick versions, have a shorter shelf life and need to be changed regularly.
How often do you throw out your pots and pans?
Often used in the kitchens of restaurants or by lovers of good cuisine, pots and pans made of iron, stainless steel or cast iron are made to last over time: several decades on average. Their nonstick counterparts and ceramic models have a completely different fate.
It is recommended to change these utensils every two or three years to prevent the coating from losing its effectiveness and becoming harmful. The migration of perfluorinated compounds and the release of metals in cooked foods were analyzed. Non-stick models would be especially affected by this phenomenon. Steel pans are susceptible to leaking iron. Opt for stainless steel models and carry out the seasoning according to the rules of the art.
In the event of scratches, warping, or cracks, discard your pan or skillet, regardless of its coating. In addition to the health risks they present, these wear can make it difficult to cook food.