Discover where Teflon hides and how to avoid it

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) plastic is better known by its trade name, Teflon, which we immediately associate with nonstick coatings on pans. But It is not a completely clean material.

When subjected to high temperatures may release toxic fumes, This has led to the development of “PTFE-free” alternatives, such as ceramic non-stick surfaces. But Teflon, in addition, it is not biodegradable, It is one of those plastics that lasts the longest in the environment. Therefore, there are plenty of reasons to avoid it and look for alternatives.

Where is Teflon (PTFE) used?

It is not enough to avoid Teflon pans, as it is also used in textiles and many other everyday objects. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is one of the most widely used plastics in the group of fluoropolymers (carbon and fluorine compounds). and is used in medical technology, electricity and vehicles, as well as in the food industry.

Used as coating for wind and water-repellent outdoor textiles, as a lubricant, in impregnating sprays, on the sliding pads of computer mice, razors and for dental floss.

Is Teflon toxic or harmless?

Teflon is temperature resistant in the range from -200 to +260 °C. At higher temperatures, such as an empty frying pan can quickly reach over a gas flame, releases toxic fumes. They can trigger what’s known as “Teflon fever,” which manifests as flu-like symptoms.

Detached (not overheated) fragments of the non-stick coating are generally considered, in principle, in harmless if ingested with food as they pass unchanged through the digestive tract.

However, in the production of polytetrafluoroethylene, so-called PFCs (perfluorinated and polyfluorinated chemicals) are often used, which can be released into the environment during use and when the products are disposed of. They are not biodegradable, accumulate in the environment and it is suspected that in the human body they may be carcinogenic.

What alternatives are there to Teflon?

It is not always easy to know which everyday products contain PTFE or PFC. However, in some of the main application areas, such as kitchen utensils or in the textile industry, There are more and more alternatives that do not contain Teflon.

Alternatives to Teflon pans

Teflon pans are convenient and easy to clean, but they can trigger Teflon fever and release non-biodegradable substances that are harmful to health.

If you prefer to do without it, you will find numerous alternatives, in some cases well-proven, to the Teflon-coated pan. The iron pans They are recommended as they have a long-lasting non-stick effect that is harmless to health, especially when they are already used a lot. Other options are steel pans and titanium pans.

Alternatives to Gore-Tex and the like

Modern outdoor textiles withstand extreme weather conditions and guarantee us comfort while skiing or mountaineering. But if you prefer to avoid PTFE in textiles, you can use natural weather-resistant materials such as virgin wool, tightly woven or waxed cotton.

Organic home remedies, such as acetic clay or wax can be used to waterproof fabrics without resorting to harmful substances. Although they don’t achieve the water-repellent effect of a high-tech material like Gore-Tex, they are more environmentally friendly and also keep your feet and body dry in most situations.

For all those who depend on functional clothing made of synthetic fibers or who do not want to do without it, it is worth compare different manufacturers, pBecause more and more companies are working with alternative materials.

Alternatives to Teflon-coated razor blades

Modern razor blades are usually provided with a plastic coating so they glide better on the skin, based on PTFE. If you’re looking for alternatives, it’s best to take a closer look at the fine print on the products.

An alternative is razors that work with interchangeable razor blades, since they also help save a lot of plastic waste.

Alternatives to PTFE-coated dental floss

Another single-use product that can be coated with Teflon is dental floss. The plastic-free alternative They are natural silk threads treated with beeswax. Another vegan option is dental floss made from corn silk coated with a vegetable wax.

Alternatives to Teflon feet on computer mice

It is true that the small slippery feet of computer mice do not represent a huge environmental problem, however, there are alternatives as well. Some manufacturers have replaced them with biodegradable plastic feet and they highlight it in their technical sheets.