When exploring non-toxic kitchen accessories, toasters usually don’t get much attention. However, many toasters and toaster ovens have non-stick coatings that are made from harmful substances called per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on the surfaces that touch food. These dangerous coatings can release chemicals that disrupt hormones and end up in your meals.
What Makes a Toaster Dangerous?
A lot of toaster ovens available today have a warning related to California Proposition 65. This law identifies over 800 chemicals that the state recognizes as potentially causing cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive issues. The list is revised at least once a year. Proposition 65 applies to all consumer goods sold or distributed in California, which includes items like clothing, shoes, household products, DIY supplies, toys, products for kids, stationery, and electronic devices, among others. (law)
Conventional toasters and toaster ovens, similar to numerous kitchen appliances, frequently feature non-stick coatings composed of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These substances are commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in both the human body and the environment.
However, most people assume that the presence of a non-stick coating within the toaster may not be a concern if it does not come into contact with food. This assumption, however, is not accurate.
Conventional toasters and toaster ovens often incorporate various materials and chemicals, including:
Non-stick coatings, which are typically composed of PFAS or PTFEs.
When subjected to heat, these non-stick surfaces, such as Teflon, emit at least six harmful gases, many of which are known carcinogens. (Study) Teflon becomes particularly hazardous when heated, reaching unsafe temperatures even during the preheating phase. Research has associated it with cancer, an increase in tumors, and reproductive issues. Alarmingly, studies indicate that 98% of Americans have measurable levels of PFAS or PFCs present in their bodies. (Study)
PFAS may be associated with the following health concerns:
– Testicular, kidney, liver, and pancreatic cancers
– Compromised immune function in children
– Reduced birth weight
– Disruption of endocrine functions
– Weight gain in both children and adults on diets.
Aluminum
Research indicates that aluminum can leach from materials that come into contact with food, with the extent of migration being influenced by prolonged contact and the acidity of the food. In essence, aluminum is a harmful metal that offers no recognized advantages for human health. It tends to accumulate in the brain and has been associated with various neurological issues (Environmental Research, 2002). Certain studies have identified a correlation between elevated aluminum exposure and the onset of Alzheimer’s disease (J Alzheimers Dis, 2011).
“The hypothesis that aluminum significantly contributes to Alzheimer’s disease is built upon very solid experimental evidence and should not be dismissed. Immediate steps should be taken to lessen human exposure to aluminum, which may be the single most aggravating and avoidable factor related to Alzheimer’s disease.” (J Alzheimers Dis, 2011)
Plastic casing
Toasters may feature plastic components or casings. To enhance heat resistance, flame retardants and smoke suppressants are incorporated into the petroleum and coal derivatives used in these plastics. However, these materials can release gases, especially when subjected to heat. Consumers can easily avoid toasters with plastic exteriors, as the majority of manufacturers now provide stainless steel alternatives. If the product description does not explicitly state that the toaster is constructed from stainless steel, it is advisable to verify that it does not contain plastic. Although these components typically do not come into direct contact with food, they can still emit gases into the indoor environment. Fortunately, many toaster brands are moving away from plastic due to its potential to melt.
Ceramic, which might include lead, cadmium, zinc, nanoparticles, and more.
What is the best material for a safe toaster?
The optimal material for a safe toaster is stainless steel. To begin with, stainless steel is chemically inert, ensuring that it does not release harmful substances into your food when subjected to heat. Consequently, you can be assured that no potentially dangerous chemicals will contaminate your toast. Additionally, this remarkable material is capable of withstanding high temperatures without warping or emitting toxic fumes. Furthermore, it is exceptionally easy to clean and maintain, making it a sensible option for a kitchen appliance that may become somewhat messy.
Here are some of the safest brands to use:
It is disappointing that many toasters and toaster ovens include components coated with PFAS chemicals. I have reached out to the companies listed below, and they have confirmed that their appliances do not utilize PFAS coatings.
Our Place Air Fryer + Toaster
This appliance offers a variety of functions, including toasting, air frying, baking, roasting, reheating, and broiling. It is constructed from high-quality materials that adhere to our stringent quality standards, with the exception of the bake pan. The materials used are as follows: the oven is made of stainless steel, the wire rack is crafted from chromed steel, the bake pan is composed of aluminum with a nonstick ceramic coating (which I would recommend avoiding), the air fryer basket is made of chromed steel, and the crumb tray is constructed from stainless steel.
Wolf Gourmet Two Slice Toaster (WGTR152S)
The information provided on their website indicates that the wrapped body is constructed from 430 stainless steel with a horizontal brush #4 finish, while the heat shield is made of polished stainless steel. The area in contact with food is entirely chrome, and the slot sides consist of sheet metal. The outer rim of the toaster is crafted from die-cast aluminum, and the crumb tray features a brushed stainless steel finish. The control knobs are made of plastic, and the base is composed of metallic painted plastic. The heating elements are made from a nickel-chromium alloy. This represents the clearest explanation of materials I have encountered, although it comes at a relatively high price. It is commendable to see a company that maintains full transparency regarding its materials.
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