06/05/2026
A scratched nonstick pan may release thousands of tiny plastic particles from its coating into food during cooking. This mainly applies to pans coated with Teflon, also known as PTFE, a common nonstick material used in cookware.
A 2022 study published in Science of the Total Environment used Raman imaging and advanced scanning methods to study worn nonstick cookware. The researchers found that one surface crack on a Teflon-coated pan could leave behind about 9,100 plastic particles. A more damaged or broken coating could release around 2.3 million microplastics and nanoplastics.
These particles are extremely small and cannot be seen with the naked eye. They may detach when the pan is scratched by metal utensils, abrasive cleaning tools, or normal wear over time.
The concern is not only the plastic particles themselves, but also the material they come from. PTFE is part of the broader PFAS family, often called “forever chemicals” because they can persist in the environment for a long time. Researchers noted that more study is needed to understand the health risks of Teflon microplastics and nanoplastics from cookware.
For safer everyday use, badly scratched, peeling, or flaking nonstick pans should be replaced. Using wooden, silicone, or plastic-safe utensils can help reduce scratching. People who want to avoid this concern may also choose stainless steel, cast iron, carbon steel, or ceramic-coated cookware.