Nowadays, most people use non-stick utensils in their homes due to the convenience of cleaning and easy cooking. Non-stick utensils are also easy to clean. But recent research has raised concerns about these utensils. It has been said that eating food cooked in a non-stick pan can cause health problems.
In particular, the risk of a specific type of Teflo flu has increased. According to a recent report in the Washington Post, over the past 20 years, US poison centers have recorded more than 3,600 reports of “polymer fume fever”, a flu-like illness linked to nonstick pan coatings. In the year 2023, 267 cases of illness caused by nonstick pans were seen. Which was a significant increase since the year 2000.
What is the Teflon flu?
Teflon flu, also known as polymer fume fever, is a temporary condition caused by inhaling fumes from hot Teflon (PTFE). It is often associated with occupational exposure or using Teflon-made cookware at high temperatures.
Causes of Teflon Flu
‘Teflon flu,’ also known as polymer fume fever, is caused by overheating nonstick cookware. When nonstick pans, especially those made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known as Teflon, are heated to temperatures above 500°F (260°C), they can release fumes. These fumes contain toxic chemicals such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and other fluorinated compounds that can be harmful if inhaled.
teflon flu symptoms
Exposure to fumes from extremely hot Teflon-based pans can cause a temporary flu-like condition.
Symptoms of ‘Teflon Flu’
Headache
Feeling cold
Fever
Nausea
chest tightness
Cough
Sore throat
These symptoms usually appear a few hours after exposure and can last for a few days. Although this condition is not usually serious, it can be uncomfortable and worrying.
Ways to protect yourself
To reduce the risk of ‘Teflon flu’ and ensure safe use of nonstick cookware, follow these precautions.
What to do to avoid this
Cook food at the right temperature
Do not cook food by heating the non-stick pan too much. We recommend heating it less. If you need to cook food at a higher temperature, then use other types of cookware like stainless steel or cast iron.
Keep your kitchen ventilated
Make sure to ventilate your cooking by using an exhaust fan or opening windows. This helps to expel any fumes that are emitted.
use a new pan
If your nonstick pans are old or scratched, replace them. Damaged pans can release more smoke and particles into the air.
Reheat with caution
Do not preheat an empty nonstick pan. Never cook in a nonstick pan at high temperatures.
Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, please consult the concerned expert.
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