THE BEST ECO-FRIENDLY COOKWARE TO KEEP YOUR KITCHEN SUSTAINABLE
Nowadays it seems there’s an “eco-friendly” version of just about any product. While that label is generally indicative of less or no environmentally harmful components, it can also refer to other qualities as well. Perhaps the product is built to last longer and perform better, reducing the need for duplicate items or replacements. Additionally, eco-friendly products are often better for your personal health, through conscious manufacturing to avoid potentially harmful toxins.
So what does all that mean for cookware?
Just like any other product, while evaluating “eco-friendly” cookware, we like to look out for all of the above - while still keeping affordability in mind. We’ll discuss lasting products that stay out of landfill longer, as well as products with energy saving properties, upcycled components, fair warranties and environmentally conscious materials. However, when it comes to kitchenware and any other surface or equipment used in contact with food, the aspect of carcinogens and other harmful components should be given extra weight. This may sound scary, but no need to worry! The good news is that there are plenty of eco-friendly cookware options made with the environment, and your body, in mind. Check out this handy list of our top choices for eco-friendly cookware to keep your food safe and your kitchen sustainable.
Before we begin, it’s important to think about the materials that cookware is made from, as these are the surfaces that food will come in contact with. You’ll want to avoid anything made with Teflon. This commonly used non-stick ingredient can lead to the creation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a known carcinogen. If you’re shopping for cookware with non-stick properties, simply make sure it’s PFOA-free. Some other cookware materials to avoid: anything with a thin ceramic coating (as this will wear off), exposed aluminum, and copper. Opt for these safer options instead:
Cast iron (bare or enameled cast iron)
Glass
Stainless steel or carbon steel
Full or durably coated ceramic
Some of these materials can require occasional maintenance, such as coating, or seasoning, meant to extend your cookware’s lifespan. Seasoning is just vegetable oil or melted shortening baked onto cast iron in order to make the surface non-stick, which helps you reduce the amount of butter, oil, or fat you use when cooking. Besides, a seasoned pan is also easy to clean and doesn't rust as quickly, and will last you generations.
Now let’s really get into it…
Although these brands vary in advantages, disadvantages and materials, all are 100% non toxic, eco friendly, and built to last!
Caraway
Starting off with a huge contender in the eco-friendly cookware realm, Caraway is highly regarded across the board for safe non-stick properties, even cooking temperature, eco-friendliness, and of course, its sleek modern design. A fairly new company, Caraway was launched as a startup in only 2018, but quickly gained traction due to raving commentary from impactful consumer reviewers like Good Housekeeping. While this is not one to ignore, it’s undeniable that brand recognition and stylistic appearance play a role in the price of this cookware (it’s a bit steep!). So if you’re looking for affordability above all, you might favor our other eco-friendly options over Caraway.
Pros:
Durable ceramic coating
Fully non-stick
Oven & dishwasher safe (but hand washing recommended)
Even heating
Attractive design and color options
Cons:
Expensive
Not fully ceramic (aluminum core)
Handles may become hot to the touch
de Buyer
De Buyer offers quite the range of quality kitchenware products, but the real star is their carbon steel collection. With the impressive title of "Best Carbon Steel Pan Overall" and a reliable 2-year warranty, these pans are well worth the investment. Choose between their unique types of carbon steel cookware to find what's best for you. De Buyer's original frying pan offers the benefits of cast iron pans without the extra bulk and weight.
Pros:
Carbon steel
Lighter than cast iron cookware
Puts on seasoning fast
Relatively inexpensive
Cons:
Loses seasoning faster than cast iron
Requires specific seasoning and cleaning methods
Emile Henry
When it comes to environmentally friendly cookware brands, Emile Henry is a globally recognized favorite. All the same aesthetic and quality of Le Creuset, without the potentially damaging effects of heavy metal glazing. This fully ceramic cookware is the perfect addition to your sustainable living dream! Born of quality French craftsmanship in 1850, Emile Henry is highly resistant to thermal shock - meaning your dishware can go straight from the freezer to the oven. Each dish is made using traditional techniques and sold at a lower price than comparable products. With proper care, this eco friendly cookware could last a lifetime.
Pros:
Full ceramic
Attractive design
Thermal shock, scratch, and stick resistant
Cons:
Less color options than Le Creuset
Ceramic can chip over time and shatter if dropped
Lodge Cast Iron
Cast iron cookware is highly sought after due to its durability, even heating, natural non-stick properties, health benefits, lifespan, versatility, and so much more. It can even make food taste better! The only downside is that it can set you back quite a bit of money. Fortunately, Lodge Cast Iron cookware holds all the same benefits of more expensive products at a fraction of the price. Made entirely in the USA, Lodge offers all things cast iron - from skillets and griddles to double Dutch ovens.
Pros:
All the benefits of cast iron
Lifetime warranty
Affordable
Cons:
Must be properly seasoned and maintained( can we explain the meaning of seasoned)
Heavy
Cuisinart Multiclad
If you're looking to fill your new kitchen, or simply ready for a fresh start, check out Cuisinart stainless steel cookware sets. Non stick pans, skillets, pots, steamers and tight fitting lids, all conveniently bundled for great value. We love the reliable durability, heat conductivity, and convenience of stainless steel cookware - and Cuisinart does it well.
Pros:
Stainless steel
Cool-grip handles
Light
Durable
Cons:
Non-stick qualities may be less than other materials
Harder to clean
Some days it can be difficult to keep up with the ever changing world of sustainable products and eco-lifestyle practices. When it comes down to it, we know you're doing your best and we're here to make some of those changes a little bit easier. Start small and make a couple conscious changes at a time. Things as simple as eco-informed cookware shopping can make a big difference for your body and the environment. You'll want to do your own research and find the perfect balance of affordability, function, and aesthetic for your kitchen - but these brands are a great place to start.