When it comes to cookware, safety should always be the top priority. Many of us have learned the hard way that traditional non-stick pans made with PTFE (aka Teflon) can release toxic fumes when overheated and the coating can flake off into our food over time. But does that mean we have to choose between safety and convenience when cooking healthy meals at home?
Enter GreenPan, an innovative cookware brand on a mission to bring healthy cooking into every home. GreenPan was founded in 2007 by two school friends in Belgium who wanted to find a safe alternative to the chemical non-stick coatings on the market. They spent several years developing GreenPan‘s signature Thermolon – the first ceramic non-stick coating made without PFAS, PFOA, lead or cadmium.
Today, GreenPan has grown into a global company offering a full range of expertly crafted, thoughtfully designed pots, pans, and cooking accessories. All GreenPan products are made with recycled aluminum or stainless steel and use a diamond-reinforced ceramic coating that the brand promises will never release toxic fumes or substances into your food.
But GreenPan goes beyond safety – they are equally committed to sustainability. The company operates its own factories which run on 30% renewable energy with a production process that emits 60% less CO2 compared to traditional non-stick cookware manufacturing. GreenPan also has an in-house wastewater treatment plant and uses upcycled stainless steel and aluminum whenever possible.
GreenPan Materials and Technology
So what exactly makes GreenPan stand out in the non-toxic cookware space? It all comes down to their proprietary Thermolon non-stick coating. Unlike PTFE coatings which start to break down at 500°F, releasing toxic fumes and potentially contaminating food, Thermolon is heat resistant up to 850°F.
Thermolon is made by a Sol-Gel process that cures the coating in the pan at a high temperature, resulting in a ultra-durable glass-like finish that‘s non-porous and non-reactive. No toxic substances are ever used so it will never release any chemicals, even if you accidentally overheat your pan. This also means no risk of the coating chipping off into your food like with traditional non-stick pans over time.
But ceramic non-stick coatings have been criticized for losing their non-stick properties faster than PTFE. To combat this, GreenPan reinforces their Thermolon coating with diamonds – the hardest material on earth. This patented diamond-infusion technology is used on GreenPan‘s premium lines for incredible scratch resistance and long-lasting non-stick performance.
All of GreenPan‘s coatings are completely free of PFAS, PFOA, lead and cadmium – toxic chemicals commonly found in other non-stick cookware that have been linked to health issues like cancer, thyroid disease, and developmental problems. So you can have peace of mind that your GreenPan is safe for your family and the environment.
GreenPan Cookware Collections
GreenPan offers an extensive selection of non-stick pots and pans in a variety of collections to suit every cooking need and style:
Valencia Pro – GreenPan‘s most popular collection features pans made from hard anodized reinforced aluminum bodies and their signature diamond-infused Thermolon coating. The stainless steel handles are oven and broiler safe up to 600°F.
Venice Pro – A tri-ply stainless steel collection that offers the ultimate in durability and even heat distribution thanks to a fully-clad aluminum core. The polished stainless steel exteriors are induction compatible and optimized for searing and browning.
Levels – GreenPan‘s newest stackable collection designed to save 30% more space in your cabinets. The tempered glass lids and handles are interchangeable between pans. Reinforced bases provide extra strength and stability.
Paris Pro – GreenPan‘s core aluminum collection features forged, heavy-gauge pans that heat quickly and evenly. Stainless steel handles are riveted for a secure grip and oven safe up to 600°F.
Padova – This Italian-made collection is built to last with cold-forged, heavy-gauge aluminum and a thick, high-performing Thermolon coating. The elegant stainless steel handles are ergonomically designed for comfort.
In terms of price, GreenPan sits at a mid to upper tier compared to other non-stick cookware brands, with most collections ranging from $50-$150 per pan. While not the cheapest option, GreenPan is competitively priced against other premium non-toxic cookware brands like ScanPan and Zwilling. Many customers find the price justifiable given the quality, performance and peace of mind that GreenPan provides.
Putting GreenPan to the Test
Of course, the real test of any pan is how it performs in the kitchen. Luckily, there are plenty of glowing user reviews online to give us a sense of how GreenPan stacks up in real world use.
On GreenPan‘s website, their bestselling Valencia Pro 11-piece set has an impressive 4.5 out of 5 star rating from over 130 reviews. Customers rave that "these pans are amazing" and a "great investment" that "exceeded expectations." Many appreciate how easy the pans are to clean and that the non-stick properties work beautifully with little to no oil.
Professional product review site The Spruce Eats also put GreenPan to the test by cooking with them daily for a month. They loved that the pans offered "a super slick cooking surface" for everything from sticky eggs to seared meats. The reviewer noted that the pans "heat evenly and quickly" and clean up "as easy as a wipe of a cloth or sponge in most cases."
On Amazon, GreenPan‘s 10-piece Valencia Pro set earned the coveted "Amazon‘s Choice" label and carries a 4.5 star rating. Negative reviews seem to mostly reference issues with sticking and staining, but many point out that this can be avoided by following proper use and care guidelines like not overheating and hand-washing promptly after use.
GreenPan FAQs
As with any newer cookware technology, there are some common questions and misconceptions about ceramic non-stick like GreenPan. Let‘s address a few of the most frequently asked questions:
Is GreenPan really non-toxic?
According to GreenPan, their pans will never release any toxic fumes or substances, even if accidentally overheated. That‘s because they don‘t use any PFAS, PFOA, lead or cadmium in their coatings or production process. However, in 2019 a class-action lawsuit was filed against GreenPan alleging their pans contained other "forever chemicals" like silane, raising questions about their non-toxic status. GreenPan stands by their pans as completely safe and non-toxic when used as directed.
Can you use metal utensils on GreenPan?
GreenPan says their diamond-infused ceramic coating is metal utensil safe, but they still recommend using wood, silicone or nylon tools to prolong the life of the pan. Metal is more likely to leave scratch marks on the surface over time.
Is it safe to use olive oil in GreenPan?
While olive oil won‘t damage the pan, GreenPan recommends using oils with a higher smoke point like canola, grapeseed or sunflower oil. Olive oil and cooking sprays can burn and carbonize quickly, leaving a film that builds up over time and impacts the non-stick performance.
How long does GreenPan last?
When used and cared for properly, GreenPan says their Thermolon non-stick coating should last for years, even with daily use. Many customers report their GreenPans performing well after 2-4 years. However, some reviews note issues with sticking and loss of non-stick ability sooner than expected. Following the proper use and care instructions is key to extending the lifespan.
Is GreenPan oven and dishwasher safe?
Most GreenPan collections are oven safe up to at least 400°F, with some lines like Valencia Pro and Paris Pro safe up to 600°F. The lids are usually oven safe up to 425°F. All collections are also dishwasher safe, although hand washing is recommended to preserve the non-stick coating.
GreenPan Alternatives
While GreenPan is a top choice for safe, sustainable non-stick cookware, there are other great ceramic and eco-friendly options on the market:
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Caraway Home: Known for their modern, minimalist design, Caraway makes non-toxic, non-stick ceramic cookware free from PTFE, PFOA, PFAS, lead and cadmium. A portion of every sale goes to Feeding America.
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Our Place: This brand is all about versatility and inclusivity, offering a small selection of thoughtfully designed non-stick ceramic pots and pans. Their signature Always Pan claims to replace 8 traditional pieces of cookware.
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Zwilling: The renowned German knife maker also offers Italian-made ceramic non-stick cookware in several attractive collections. All are PTFE and PFOA-free and built with tri-ply aluminum construction for even heating.
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Scanpan: This premium Danish kitchenware brand makes professional grade cookware with a proprietary ceramic titanium non-stick coating. Their pans are safe for use with metal utensils and are dishwasher, oven and even broiler safe.
The Bottom Line
If you‘re looking to upgrade your cookware collection with safer, healthier non-stick pots and pans, GreenPan is absolutely worth considering. While they may carry a higher price tag than standard non-stick, the quality, performance and peace of mind are worth the investment for many home cooks.
GreenPan‘s thoughtful design, sustainable production practices and commitment to innovation set them apart from the competition. Their signature diamond-infused ceramic coating offers arguably the most durable, high-performing non-stick surface on the market without any potentially toxic chemicals.
Of course, no pan is perfect and GreenPan has faced some criticism over their non-stick claims and safety statements. As with any ceramic cookware, proper use and care is essential to get the best results and longevity. But based on thousands of glowing user reviews and rigorous performance tests, the vast majority of GreenPan owners are incredibly happy with their purchase.
If you‘re ready to invest in healthier cooking, GreenPan offers an excellent selection of safe, sustainable and high-performing non-stick cookware for every kitchen. From frying pans to full cookware sets, their collections offer something for every budget and cooking style. Plus, their generous 2-year warranty and 60-day return policy lets you try them risk-free.
So whether you‘re tired of replacing scratched Teflon pans or are looking for a safer alternative for your growing family, GreenPan is one of the best ceramic non-stick cookware brands on the market. While no pan is 100% perfect, GreenPan comes pretty darn close to checking all the boxes for healthy home cooking.
