Silicone cookware has been giving tough competition to plastic and ceramic cookware. Silicone-based baking utensils are well known for their flexibility, functionality, and durability among bakers.
But, the safety of silicone-based cookware is still under debate. Some people say that silicone-based cookware is unsafe for cooking while others say it is safe. Let’s find out the verdict behind this debate.
What is silicone cookware?
Silicone is a synthetic element comprising silica, oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon. Silicone-based cookware is temperature-resistant in both hot and cold environments. Silicone is a non-biodegradable substance; hence it cannot be recycled.
It must be cleaned and dried properly before storing it in the almirahs. Moist or wet silicone cookware can develop discoloration and tackiness.
Benefits of silicone cookware
Silicone cookware is a great alternative to steel cake tins, pans, and ladles which get hot very quickly while cooking. Unlike, paper cupcakes and muffin wrappers, silicone can be reused time and again. You don't have to grease silicone cookware before using it. High-quality food-grade silicone containers do not release any toxic chemicals or fumes into your food; hence they are perfectly safe to use.
Silicone cookware for kids
You might have observed silicone cookware for kids comes in bright colors, shapes, and sizes. When kids eat using silicone cookware, it keeps safety parameters in check in the minds of their parents.
Is silicone cookware safe?
There are various qualities of silicone cookware available in the market. Low-quality silicone cookware is made from fillers that lead to odors and poor performance while cooking. Till now, research has been going on in this area. To test the purity of the silicone cookware you are buying, check for 100% pure, food-grade silicone.
If that 100% food-grade guarantee is not mentioned on the cookware, it means that the cookware is made from low-quality silicone.
Research Findings
A diverse range of scientific research findings has revealed the harmfulness of silicone cookware. For instance, the migration of various chemicals from fractional parts and silicone baking sheets has also been recorded in one study, confirming the need for a holistic approach in actual conditions. The conclusion from the other study reveals that there has been an increased migration of chemicals with an increase in temperature, suggesting their possible harmful effects on cooking at higher temperatures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the debate over silicone cookware needs a balanced perspective when choosing kitchen utensils. The convenience of silicon’s flexibility and reusability must be weighed against its environmental impacts and drying requirements. The lack of comprehensive research and valid evidence raises some serious questions about the safety of silicone.
While silicone cookware remains a popular choice for many bakers and homemakers, one should start prioritizing 100% pure food-grade silicone certification. The environmental implications of silicone's non-biodegradability and lack of recyclability underscore the importance of exploring alternative materials like cast iron, ceramic, and carbon steel for a more sustainable kitchen. As awareness grows and research evolves, a well-informed consumer base will drive the demand for safer, eco-friendly kitchen options.