Use These Kitchen Utensils Carefully For Better Health

Certain kitchen utensils can be harmful to health due to the materials they are made of, how they interact with food, and how they degrade overtime. Some utensils leach toxic chemicals or heavy metals into food, especially when exposed to heat, acidic foods or prolonged use. Non-stick coating, plastic utensils, aluminium cookware and certain wooden tools can all pose health risks if not used properly. Opting for safer alternatives can help minimise exposure to toxins and foodborne illnesses. Keep reading as we share a list of utensils you should avoid for better health.

Kitchen utensils that are bad for your health

1. Non-stick teflon cookware

Teflon-coated cookware releases toxic fumes when overheated, potentially causing flu-like symptoms. The coating can also degrade over time, contaminating the food with harmful particles. Use stainless steel, cast iron or ceramic-coated cookware for safer cooking experience. These materials are durable, toxin-free and offer excellent heart retention.

2. Plastic cooking utensils

Plastic utensils can leach harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates into food, especially when exposed to heat. Over time, they degrade, releasing microplastics into meals. Switch to wooden, bamboo or stainless steel utensils which are heat-resistant and do not release toxins.

3. Aluminium cookware

Aluminium is a reactive metal that can leach into acidic or salty foods, potentially contributing to neurological issues and long-term health risks. Choose anodised aluminium or opt for stainless steel, cast iron or ceramic cookware.

4. Scratched non-stick pans

Once scratched, non-stick coatings can release toxic substances into food and increase the risk of chemical ingestion. Replace damaged non-stick plans with cast iron, carbon steel or high-quality stainless steel alternatives that naturally develop a non-stick surface over time.

5. Copper cookware

Unlined copper cookware can lead excessive copper into food, leading to toxicity and digestive issues. Use stainless steel-lined copper cookware, which retains heart benefits while preventing copper from coming into contact with food.

6. Melamine bowls and plates

Melamine dishes can release toxic chemicals when used with hot or acidic foods, potentially leading to kidney and liver issues. Opt for glass, ceramic or stainless steel dishes which do not react with food.

7. Cheap silicone utensils

Low-quality silicone utensils may contain fillers that bread down at high temperatures, releasing toxic chemicals into food. Choose high-quality food-grade silicone or wooden utensils that are heat-resistant and non-toxic.

8. Old wooden cutting boards

Over time, wooden cutting boards develop deep cracks that grooves that harbour bacteria and mould, increasing risk of foodborne diseases. Use bamboo or end-grain wood cutting boards which are much more resistant to deep cuts. Regularly sanitise and replace old boards when they become excessively worn.

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9. Plastic food storage containers

Many plastic containers contain BPA and other chemicals that leach into food, especially when microwaved or used for hot food storage. Store food in glass or stainless steel as they are safer for your health.

Replacing hazardous kitchen utensils with safer alternative can significantly reduce health risk and improve food quality.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.