If you have any Teflon (or non-stick) cookware, throw it away!! I suppose you could donate it or give it to someone who doesn't care about cooking on a toxic surface :o)
Teflon is a member of a family of chemicals called “perfluorochemicals” (PFCs). According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), “PFCs virtually never breaks down in the environment and has been found to contaminate most of the US population, including 92 percent of children tested to date.” Link to Environmental Working Group for the full story: http://www.ewg.org/healthyhometips/dangersofteflon
One of the biggest issues with Teflon cookware is that at high heats (standard cooking temperatures) the particles start to break down, There have even been reports of birds dropping dead from the toxic gases released off a cooking pan, referred to as the Teflon Flu. Yes, I realize we are not birds, but if they are dying, what do you think it is doing to you while inhaling those invisible toxins?
Teflon is not just limited to cookware though, you can also find it on carpets, furniture, clothes and even cosmetics. Your skin is very porous and can easily absorb the Teflon particles causing who knows what damage to your body. Think of the effects on babies, young children and animals rolling around on those surfaces! It also pollutes the environment and the people surrounding the plants that produce this chemical.
Of course if you ask DuPont (the makers of Teflon) They will tell you there is nothing to worry about...just use their product as suggested and you will be fine. Sure, I will get right on that, NOT!
Oh, and as a side dish... DuPont is a competitor or Monsanto...need I say more?
Some additional resources:
http://www.ecomall.com/greenshopping/teflon4.htm
http://abcnews.go.com/WNT/story?id=1540964
http://www.wisegeek.com/is-teflon-dangerous.htm
It isn't even good for pets,especially pet birds.I say if its bad for animals its bad for humans.Great post!!
ReplyDeleteI applaud the idea of creating a safer home, and because there's so much misinformation out there about the Teflon® brand, I'm not surprised that you are concerned. I'm a representative of DuPont though, and hope you'll let me share some information with you and your readers so that everyone can make truly informed decisions.
ReplyDeleteRegulatory agencies, consumer groups and health associations all have taken a close look at the Teflon® brand. This article highlights what they found -- the bottom line is that you can use Teflon® non-stick without worry.
http://www.docstoc.com/docs/100656224/Consumer-Reports---June-2007
I'd truly be glad to share additional information about it if you are interested, and appreciate your consideration of this comment. Cheers, Sara.
I can't seem to be able to access the information you linked up without paying or giving them more information then I care to give. Can you please copy and paste the information for all of us to read. Thanks! Morgan
ReplyDelete