
Teflon® was discovered nearly 70 years ago and has been used safely in cookware for over 40 years. Teflon® has been used since the 1940s for automotive, military, personal use and industrial products. Many Teflon® and other fluoropolymer coatings are permitted for food contact under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and applicable regulations, including 21 CFR 175 300.
There is one known health risk associated with Teflon, the inhalation of fumes produced during the breakdown of the coating. Temporary flue gas-like symptoms (known as polymer fume fever) may occur when vapors from superheated fluoropolymer are inhaled. Typically, a fluoropolymer coating would need to be heated above 500°F to begin to degrade. Vapors typically do not escape until the fluoropolymer degrades significantly (660°F). Fats, butter, and cooking oils generally only burn and smoke at 400°F. When used correctly, non-stick Teflon® products are safe.
DuPont states: “Teflon® cookware is formulated and quality tested to resist peeling or cracking, which only happens if the cookware is misused. However, if Teflon® cookware particles are accidentally eaten, there is no danger. These particles are non-toxic. When eaten, they pass directly through the body and are not absorbed. The FDA has determined that ingesting Teflon® particles poses no health risk.”
In another matter, the EPA and industry have been studying PFOA for the past six years to determine what effects exist on human health. PFOA is a polymerization aid, not an ingredient used to aid in the production of fluoropolymers. It is largely removed in the final stages of polymer production and at the high temperatures used when most fluoropolymers are made into finished products. The EPA has said, “Although our risk assessment efforts are not perfect and new information may change the current picture, EPA is not currently aware of any studies specifically addressing current levels of PFOA exposure to human health effects.” The EPA has also stated “At this time, the EPA does not believe there is any reason for consumers to stop using products because of PFOA”.
Over the past six years, there have been rumors, misconceptions, and unsubstantiated claims about PFOA, its safety, and its effect on Teflon® and other fluoropolymer coatings. To reduce concerns about PFOA, industry has improved manufacturing processes and controls to reduce PFOA use and emissions. EPA and industry have set a goal to practically eliminate the release of PFOA into the environment by 2015.
