Although we are constantly being reminded of the benefits of a healthy diet and the foods we should not eat, very little attention is paid to the way our food is cooked and the potential dangers of ceramic cookware. This type of cookware comes in two categories – glazed and unglazed. Glazed utensils can be more durable and attractive and enhance the look of a kitchen when used as ornaments. Unglazed cookware can be more porous and inclined to damage much easier, resulting in chips and cracks, over a period of time.
Glazed cookware can be used in high temperatures and it retains heat for some time, making it an asset when serving a meal. It is also safe to use in a microwave and is dishwasher friendly. This type of cookware has been around for many years and was the favored type of utensil, sometimes the only type of utensil, used by our grandparents. However, over recent years, research has revealed that there are some dangers when using ceramic cookware.
This research has revealed that the process that the cookware is subjected to during the glazing process involves the use of materials such as lead and cadmium. When exposed to heat for long periods of time, these pigments can be transferred into the foods being cooked. Repeated use could result in lead or cadmium poisoning for the consumers of the food.
The dangers of ceramic cookware mainly apply to the glazed type of utensils and to combat this, many manufacturers have improved manufacturing techniques to reduce the risks. However, general wear and tear can erode these safety measures and constant dishwasher use could also accelerate the process as well. There a number of ways to care for ceramic cookware such as reducing the wear and tear by washing the items manually avoiding the use of a dishwasher. Then if a utensil becomes cracked or chipped it is better to discard it and always purchase from a reputable supplier that displays guarantees and assurances.
It must be remembered that cutting corners with cost and safety could mean becoming a victim of the dangers of ceramic cookware and you cannot put a price on good health.