Science shows that toxic metal leaching from bakeware is real and material-dependent. Low-quality ceramics and enamels can leach lead and cadmium, especially with acidic foods. Nonstick coatings can shed microplastics and PTFE fragments. "Nontoxic" nano-ceramic coatings can release nanoparticles under abrasion.
This is HIGH PRIORITY because bakeware is exposed to high temperatures for extended periods, which accelerates chemical migration into food.
Laurel recommends bakeware from trusted brands made from cast iron, porcelain, glass, carbon steel, or stainless steel. Enameled cast iron must be lead-free and from a trusted brand.
Laurel avoids any bakeware with a nonstick coating (including both PFAS-based and nanoparticle-derived alternatives) as well as any bakeware made of aluminum or an unknown metal alloy.
Tip: While we don't fully trust parchment paper (it is coated in a thin layer of silicone, and the health implications are not well-studied), it might be helpful to use a PFAS-free parchment paper for room-temperature cooking projects that require a nonstick surface.
Bakeware
Science showstoxic metal leaching from bakeware is real and material-dependent. Low-quality ceramics and enamels can leach lead and cadmium, especially with acidic foods. Nonstick coatings can shed microplastics and PTFE fragments. "Nontoxic" nano-ceramic coatings can release nanoparticles under abrasion.
Laurel recommends bakeware from trusted brands made from cast iron, porcelain, glass, carbon steel, or stainless steel. Enameled cast iron must be lead-free and from a trusted brand.
Laurel avoidsany bakeware with a nonstick coating (including both PFAS-based and nanoparticle-derived alternatives) as well as any bakeware made of aluminum or an unknown metal alloy.
Tip:While we don't fully trust parchment paper (it is coated in a thin layer of silicone, and the health implications are not well-studied), it might be helpful to use a PFAS-free parchment paper for room-temperature cooking projects that require a nonstick surface.