How safe are Teflon and other fluoropolymer coatings?

Teflon® was discovered almost 70 years ago and has been used safely in cookware for over 40 years. Teflon® has been used since the 1940s in automotive, military, personal use, and industrial products. Many Teflon® and other fluoropolymer food contact coatings are permitted for use under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and applicable regulations, including 21 CFR 175.300.

There is a known health hazard associated with Teflon: the inhalation of vapors produced during the degradation of the coating. Temporary flu-like symptoms (known as polymer fume fever) can occur when fumes from superheated fluoropolymers are inhaled. Typically, the fluoropolymer coating would have to be heated in excess of 500°F to begin to deteriorate. Typically no fumes are emitted until the fluoropolymer decomposes significantly (660°F). Fats, butter, and cooking oil tend to burn and smoke at just 400°F. When used correctly, Teflon® nonstick products are safe.

DuPont states that “Teflon® cookware is formulated and tested to resist peeling or chipping, which will only occur if the cookware is misused. However, should cookware particles of Teflon® are accidentally ingested, there is no danger. These particles are non-toxic. If ingested, they pass directly through the body and are not absorbed. The FDA has declared that eating Teflon® particles does not pose a health hazard “.

In another matter, for the past six years, the EPA and industry have been studying PFOA to determine if there are any effects on human health. PFOA is a polymerization aid, not an ingredient, used to help make fluoropolymers. It is largely removed during the final steps of polymer production and by the high temperatures used when most fluoropolymers are made into finished products. The EPA has said: “Although our risk assessment activities are not complete and new data may change the current landscape, to date, EPA is not aware of any studies that specifically link current PFOA exposure levels to Effects on human health”. The EPA has also stated: “The EPA does not currently believe there is any reason for consumers to stop using any product due to concerns about PFOA.”

Over the past six years there have been rumors, misconceptions, and unsubstantiated claims regarding PFOA, its safety, and its effect on Teflon® and other fluoropolymer coatings. To reduce concerns related to PFOA, the industry has improved manufacturing processes and controls to reduce PFOA use and emissions. The EPA and industry have a stated goal of virtually eliminating the release of PFOA into the environment by 2015.