The Hidden Dangers of 'Teflon Flu' — And a Safer Alternative
The Silent Threat Lurking in Your Kitchen
It starts with a headache. Then come the chills, muscle aches, and a fever that makes you feel like you're coming down with a nasty case of the flu. But what if it's not the flu at all? A growing number of Americans are discovering that their nonstick cookware could be making them sick.
In 2023 alone, more than 265 cases of polymer fume fever — commonly known as "Teflon flu" — were reported, the highest number in over two decades. The culprit? Overheated nonstick pans that release toxic fumes into the air.
With this alarming rise in cases, it's time to ask: Are your pots and pans putting you at risk?
What Is Teflon Flu?
Teflon flu is caused by inhaling fumes from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), the chemical coating used in most nonstick cookware. When these pans are heated above 500 degrees F, they begin to break down, releasing harmful gases that can cause flu-like symptoms within hours.
According to America's Poison Centers, exposure can lead to:
- Chest tightness and difficulty breathing
- Headaches and muscle aches
- Fever and chills
In most cases, symptoms disappear within a few days, but the long-term health effects remain uncertain. Some experts warn that exposure to PFAS, the "forever chemicals" often associated with nonstick cookware, has been linked to thyroid disease, kidney cancer, and fertility issues.
Is Your Nonstick Cookware Safe?
If your nonstick pans were made before 2013, it might be time to throw them out. That's because older Teflon cookware contained perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a chemical now banned due to its connection to serious health issues, including cancer.
Even if your pans are newer, they still pose risks when overheated. To reduce your exposure:
- Never preheat an empty nonstick pan on high heat.
- Avoid using nonstick pans in the oven above 450 degrees F.
- Cook in well-ventilated areas to minimize fume buildup.
- Replace scratched or worn-out pans.
But for those looking for a truly worry-free solution, there's an even better alternative.
The Safer, Smarter Alternative: HexClad
If you love the convenience of nonstick cooking but don't want to risk exposure to harmful chemicals, it's time to switch to HexClad.
Unlike traditional nonstick cookware, HexClad uses a patented hybrid design that combines stainless steel, an aluminum core, and nonstick valleys coated with TerraBond™ — a high-grade ceramic nonstick that is PTFE-free and free from forever chemicals.
Here's why HexClad is the smarter choice:
- ✅ No Toxins, No Worries – No PTFE, PFOA, or PFAS chemicals, so you can cook with confidence.
- ✅ Superior Durability – Laser-etched stainless-steel ridges protect the nonstick surface, making it nearly indestructible.
- ✅ Perfect Searing Power – Unlike traditional nonstick pans, HexClad gives you the golden-brown crust of stainless steel without the sticking.
- ✅ Works on All Stovetops – Gas, electric, and even induction-compatible.
With HexClad, you don't have to choose between performance and safety — you get both.
Say Goodbye to Teflon Flu Risks
The science is clear: Overheated nonstick pans can release toxic fumes that put your health at risk. With Teflon flu cases rising, now is the time to rethink what's in your kitchen.
If you want cookware that's just as easy to clean as Teflon but without the dangers, HexClad is your best bet. Its patented hybrid technology offers superior performance and long-lasting durability — all without harmful chemicals.
If you needed any more reasons to upgrade your cookware today, Hexclad is offering up to 30% off all of their cookware. That is a savings of $400 on their best-selling set.
Make the switch today... cook without limits and SAVE.
References: What to know about 'Teflon flu' amid a rise in cases in the US | What Is 'Teflon Flu'? What to Know About Nonstick Cookware | HexClad Science
