What Is Teflon? The Truth About PTFE, PFAS, and Safer Cookware Options
Author: Hamlet Fort | December 11, 2025 | Time to read: 7 min
Teflon has held a place in British kitchens for decades — the famously slick surface that once made stuck-on eggs, pancakes, and washing up feel like a breeze. But as more research uncovers the environmental and health impacts of PFAS chemicals, many home cooks are looking more closely at the materials they use every single day. Understanding what Teflon actually is (and what it isn’t) can help you make choices that feel good for both your cooking and your home.
So, what is Teflon? In short: Teflon is PTFE, a type of PFAS chemical known for extreme resistance to heat, oils, and stains. That same durability is why PFAS are often called “forever chemicals.”
What Exactly Is Teflon?
Teflon® is the trademarked name for polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a synthetic fluorinated polymer discovered in 1938. Its naturally slippery texture made it the go-to choice for non-stick pans from the mid-20th century onward.
PTFE belongs to a much broader group of chemicals called PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These chemicals are valued for their ability to repel water, grease, and stains — but also persist in the environment for decades.
PFAS vs. PTFE vs. PFOA
Because these terms are often used together, here’s the straightforward distinction:
PFAS: A large class of synthetic chemicals used across consumer goods.
PTFE: A specific PFAS used for traditional non-stick coatings — including Teflon.
PFOA: A PFAS formerly used during the manufacturing of PTFE. Phased out in the UK due to health concerns.
Many pans labelled “PFOA-free” still contain PTFE, making them not PFAS-free.
For a full breakdown of cookware materials, our Best Cookware Material Guide goes deeper into how each type performs.
Is Teflon Safe?
Most Teflon safety questions fall into two categories: risks from overheating and broader PFAS exposure.
1. Overheating PTFE Coatings
PTFE begins to break down at extremely high temperatures, especially if a pan is preheated empty or overheated on a hob. This can release fumes that cause temporary flu-like symptoms sometimes referred to as “Teflon flu.”
2. Environmental and Health Impact of PFAS
PFAS chemicals don’t easily degrade. They’ve been detected in soil, water, and even in the air. Scientific research has connected long-term PFAS exposure to:
Hormone disruption
Certain cancers
Immune system effects
Increased cholesterol levels
Potential developmental concerns
Cookware isn’t the only source, but many people choose to reduce PFAS where they can — starting with tools used daily.
💡Pro Tip:
No matter the brand, keep non-stick cookware on low to medium heat. Overheating — especially when a pan is empty — is the most common cause of coating breakdown.
Is Teflon Harmful?
PTFE itself is stable under normal cooking temperatures however the concern around PTFE coated cookware comes from:
Their PFAS classification (environmental persistence)
The risks of overheating, releasing harmful Forever Chemicals
The shift and desire for non-toxic, PFAS-free kitchens
This is part of why many cooks are turning to materials that offer nonstick performance without PFAS.
PFAS-Free Alternatives: Safer Cookware Options
If you’re looking to minimise PFAS at home, here are trusted alternatives:
Ceramic Nonstick
A PFAS-free, silica-based coating with a naturally slick surface. It performs best on low to medium heat and is ideal for everyday cooking.
Our Always Pan® uses Thermakind®, an exclusive PFAS-, PTFE-, and microplastic-free ceramic non-stick — one example of how modern materials make non-toxic cooking easier.
Titanium (No-Coating Technology)
Our NoCo® pressed titanium pans achieve a non-stick effect using engineered texture rather than chemical coatings. They’re PFAS-free and built for high-heat searing.
Stainless Steel
Durable and brilliant for browning, deglazing, and oven finishing. While not non-stick, it becomes incredibly versatile once you learn the “heat → oil → food” method.
Carbon Steel
Lighter than cast iron, great for high heat, and capable of developing a naturally non-stick patina over time.
For more detail on how ceramic non-stick works and how it differs from PTFE, see Is Ceramic Cookware Safe?
💡Pro Tip:
PFAS-free ceramic and no-coating titanium pans offer effective non-stick performance without relying on traditional PTFE-based coatings.
Why Many Cooks Are Moving Beyond Teflon
Across Europe, regulators are evaluating stricter PFAS guidelines due to environmental persistence. Some industries are already transitioning away from PFAS, and cookware is part of this wider conversation.
For many, the goal is simple: cook with materials that feel aligned with long-term safety, sustainability, and transparency.
The Bottom Line
Teflon changed the way people cook, but our understanding of PFAS has evolved. If you’re looking to reduce PFAS in your home, choosing cookware made without PTFE is a meaningful place to start. Materials like ceramic non-stick, pressed titanium, stainless steel, carbon steel, and enamelled cast iron offer stellar cooking performance — without relying on traditional PFAS-based coatings.
Cooking should feel good — for your meals, your home, and your peace of mind.
FAQs About Teflon
Is Teflon the same as PTFE?
Yes. Teflon is the brand name for PTFE.
Is Teflon still used in cookware today?
Yes. Many non-stick pans still use PTFE, even when labelled “PFOA-free.”
At what temperature does Teflon become unsafe?
PTFE can degrade at very high temperatures. Stick to low to medium heat on all non-stick cookware.
Does “PFOA-free” mean “PFAS-free”?
No. PFOA-free pans can still contain PTFE and other PFAS.
Are ceramic non-stick pans safer?
Ceramic non-stick is PFAS-free and a popular alternative for cooks seeking non-toxic options.
How can I reduce PFAS exposure in my kitchen?
Choose cookware made without PFAS, avoid overheating non-stick surfaces, and look for clear materials disclosures from brands.