New study shows a single scratch on a nonstick pan releases 9000 toxic micro-plastic particles, while a broken coating releases over 2 million

A new study reveals that a single scratch on a nonstick pan can release 9,000 microplastic particles into your food.

If the coating is broken, that number skyrockets to over 2 million particles.

These particles aren’t just harmless specks. They contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals”—named for their inability to break down in the environment or human body.

Researchers in Australia found that Teflon-coated cookware, when scratched or damaged, can lead to an explosion of PFAS contamination, exposing consumers to serious health risks.

With nonstick pans present in millions of kitchens worldwide, these findings raise an urgent question: Are our everyday cooking habits exposing us to hidden dangers?

What Are PFAS? The Ubiquitous “Forever Chemicals”

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals used in consumer products since the 1940s for their heat-, water-, and stain-resistant properties.

They are found not just in nonstick cookware but also in food packaging, clothing, carpets, and even baby products.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are thousands of different PFAS, and while some are being phased out due to known toxicity, others remain widely used.

Their unique chemical structure makes them nearly indestructible—hence their nickname, “forever chemicals.”

The biggest concern? They accumulate in the human body over time, leading to potential health risks.

Health Risks of PFAS Exposure

Research has linked PFAS exposure to a range of serious health conditions, including:

Cancer – Multiple studies suggest that long-term PFAS exposure increases the risk of certain cancers, including kidney and testicular cancer.
Infertility and Hormonal Disruptions – PFAS are known to interfere with hormone levels, potentially leading to reduced fertility and pregnancy complications.
Developmental Issues in Children – Exposure during pregnancy has been linked to low birth weight, developmental delays, and immune system suppression.
Liver and Kidney Damage – PFAS accumulate in organs over time, increasing the risk of liver disease and kidney dysfunction.
Weakened Immune Response – Some studies indicate that PFAS exposure can reduce the effectiveness of vaccines and immune system function.

Shockingly, PFAS have been detected in the bloodstreams of 99% of Americans, according to data from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).

The Widespread Presence of PFAS

While nonstick pans have been the focus of recent studies, PFAS contamination extends far beyond the kitchen.

These chemicals are also found in:

Fast-food packaging (grease-resistant wrappers and containers)
Stain-resistant fabrics and furniture
Waterproof clothing (including raincoats and outdoor gear)
Cosmetics and personal care products (especially waterproof mascara and foundation)
Firefighting foams (a major contributor to water contamination)

Because these substances do not break down easily, they accumulate in the soil, water supply, and even the food chain, making avoidance increasingly difficult.

Regulatory Failures: Why PFAS Are Still in Your Kitchen

Despite mounting evidence of their health risks, federal regulations on PFAS remain weak.

The U.S. has no nationwide ban on PFAS in cookware or consumer products.
The FDA allows limited PFAS use in food packaging, despite concerns about leaching into food.
The EPA only recently proposed guidelines to limit PFAS in drinking water—but enforcement remains challenging.

While some states—including California, Maine, and Washington—have moved to restrict or ban PFAS in consumer goods, most of the country still lacks comprehensive protections.

Without strict federal oversight, millions of consumers unknowingly use products that contain these harmful chemicals every day.

What Can You Do? Safer Alternatives to Nonstick Pans

Given the risks, experts strongly advise against using scratched or damaged nonstick cookware. Until safer alternatives become widely available, here’s what you can do to reduce exposure:

✔ Switch to Stainless Steel or Cast Iron – Both materials provide durable, non-toxic alternatives to nonstick pans.

✔ Use Ceramic or Glass Bakeware – Unlike Teflon, ceramic and glass options do not release harmful chemicals.

✔ Avoid High Heat on Nonstick Pans – If you must use nonstick cookware, keep the temperature below 500°F to reduce the release of toxic fumes.

✔ Look for PFAS-Free Labels – Some brands now offer nonstick cookware explicitly free of PFAS and similar chemicals.

✔ Filter Your Drinking Water – High-quality activated carbon or reverse osmosis filters can help remove PFAS from tap water.

✔ Limit Packaged and Fast Food Consumption – Many food wrappers contain PFAS coatings that can transfer to food.

The Future of PFAS-Free Living

As awareness grows, pressure is mounting on manufacturers to phase out harmful PFAS chemicals. Some companies are already responding by introducing safer, non-toxic alternatives to traditional nonstick coatings.

Consumer demand has led to increased research into ceramic-based, toxin-free cookware, and some brands have begun marketing themselves as “PFAS-free.”

However, until regulations catch up with science, the burden remains on consumers to make safer choices.

Final Thoughts

The dangers of nonstick cookware are no longer a secret. The evidence is clear: PFAS are a serious health threat, and even a minor scratch on a pan can expose you and your family to thousands—if not millions—of toxic particles.

With no immediate regulatory solutions in place, personal choices matter now more than ever. By switching to safer cookware options, filtering drinking water, and advocating for stricter industry regulations, we can reduce our exposure to PFAS and push for a healthier future.

What changes will you make in your kitchen today?