Toxicity may be on the menu if you’re bringing some common household items and foods into your kitchen. All of the organic foods and disinfectants in the world won’t save you from the damage that can be done by these household health hazards.
It’s time to take stock of your goods and see if you’re housing these dangers.
ITEMS TO DITCH
1. Non-stick to Your Guns: Non-stick metal pots and pans. They are coated with a synthetic polymer called polytetrafluoroethylene or Teflon. According to the Environmental Working Group, this Teflon cookware releases toxic fumes at high temperatures that may kill pet birds and cause people to have flu-like symptoms.
Other items to toss are aluminum pots and pans because aluminum can leach into foods cooked on the stove. Aluminum is on the list of priority toxins in the U.S. from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Aluminum has been named a toxin with deleterious effects on the human nervous system, immune system and genetic system. It has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
What’s the sensible solution for cookware? Opt for cast iron, which is durable and has the added advantage of even heat distribution. Other items for safe cooking include glass, ceramic and stoneware. Stainless steel is considered one of the best options.
2. Not Your Cup of Tea: Parchment paper and coffee filters. Most paper products in the U.S. are bleached with chlorine gas or chlorine derivatives known to create dioxins as a result of the bleaching process. Even in small amounts, dioxins are toxic.