Non-Toxic Kitchen Swaps Guide
Parchment Paper Most people don’t realize that common parchment paper is coated with chemicals like Quilon (a chromium compound) or processed with chlorine bleach. When heated, these can release toxins into your food. Instead, choose unbleached parchment paper coated with food-grade silicone, like If You Care, Beyond Gourmet, or PaperChef. These are free of chlorine, Quilon, and toxic fumes — and they still offer that non-stick convenience. You can also use silicone baking mats like Silpat as a reusable, long-term solution. Avoid using wax paper in the oven — it melts and releases harmful substances. And skip aluminum foil, especially when cooking acidic foods. Cookware If you're still using non-stick pans, even “green” ones, chances are they contain PFAS or other forever chemicals that can leach into your food when scratched or heated. Instead, use cast iron (great for high heat), enameled cast iron (like Le Creuset), stainless steel, pure ceramic, or glass cookware. These materials don’t release toxins and often last a lifetime. Avoid aluminum pans, especially if uncoated, and be cautious with any non-stick surface unless you’ve verified it's 100% PFAS-free and third-party tested. Utensils Plastic spatulas and spoons may seem harmless, but when they come into contact with hot food or hot pans, they can leach plasticizers, BPA, BPS, or phthalates. Over time, they break down — and you don’t want that in your soup. Think "hormone disruption" Instead, reach for natural wood utensils (like bamboo or beech), stainless steel tools, or LFGB-certified silicone spatulas, which are heat-safe and food-grade. Avoid anything rubbery or plastic that starts melting or warping — if it’s deforming, it’s releasing toxins. Food Storage Old Tupperware, stained plastic containers, and cling wrap are common culprits of chemical exposure — especially when microwaved or used for hot food. These can leach endocrine (hormone) disruptors directly into your meals. The cleanest alternatives are glass containers with lids, mason jars, silicone food bags (like Stasher), and beeswax wraps for covering leftovers or wrapping snacks.