The US state of California has announced that it is considering legislation to ban the sale of non-stick cookware, citing growing concerns about the potential health risks posed by chemicals used in their production.
This move comes as public and scientific debates intensify over so-called “forever chemicals,” known as PFAS, which are believed to persist in the environment and the human body for long periods and may be linked to serious health issues.
The proposed legislation seeks to limit exposure to these substances, which are commonly found in the non-stick coatings used in pans and other cookware.
The initiative has sparked widespread debate among consumers and kitchenware manufacturers: some argue it is a necessary step to protect public health, while others warn it could lead to higher prices and challenges in finding equally effective alternatives.
Health experts note that repeated exposure to PFAS has been associated with thyroid disorders, liver diseases, and even certain types of cancer. Meanwhile, some cookware companies claim to have developed new technologies that reduce these risks and make products safer for consumers.
If passed, the law would make California one of the first US states to impose strict restrictions on non-stick cookware, potentially paving the way for similar legislation across the country.
