Podcasts > Pursuit of Wellness > Is Your Cookware Making You Sick? The Truth About Toxins in the Kitchen w/ Jordan Nathan of Caraway

Is Your Cookware Making You Sick? The Truth About Toxins in the Kitchen w/ Jordan Nathan of Caraway

By Mari Llewellyn

In this episode of the Pursuit of Wellness podcast, Jordan Nathan, founder of Caraway, reveals the health risks associated with toxic materials found in many household cookware products, such as Teflon. He shares his own harrowing experience with Teflon poisoning that inspired him to create Caraway as a safe, non-toxic cookware alternative.

The discussion explores how materials like lead, cadmium, and microplastics can leach into food over time, contributing to various health issues. Nathan highlights Caraway's mission to empower consumers to create a toxin-free home by providing non-toxic products and educational resources. The episode also touches on the growing demand for non-toxic living options as consumer awareness of product toxins increases.

Is Your Cookware Making You Sick? The Truth About Toxins in the Kitchen w/ Jordan Nathan of Caraway

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Is Your Cookware Making You Sick? The Truth About Toxins in the Kitchen w/ Jordan Nathan of Caraway

1-Page Summary

Dangers of Toxic Cookware Materials Like Teflon

Teflon, developed for military applications in the 1930s, made its way into household items like non-stick cookware. However, Sanger-Katz explains, it has been linked to various health issues such as cancer, lower sperm counts, and effects on sleep and gut health.

Jordan Nathan experienced Teflon poisoning after leaving a Teflon-coated pan unattended over an open flame. The fumes sickened him and his partner, Nathan recounts, leading him to found Carraway Cookware to address toxic cookware dangers.

The article warns that cookware can contain other harmful substances like lead, cadmium, heavy metals, and microplastics that contribute to toxicity over time.

Carraway's Mission to Create Safe, Non-toxic Cookware Products

Nathan founded Carraway after his Teflon poisoning experience as a solution to the dangers of toxic cookware materials, the article explains. Carraway deliberately avoids plastics and Teflon, opting for safer materials like glass and organic cotton linen.

Nathan insists on eco-friendly practices throughout Carraway's operations: their packaging uses cardboard instead of single-use plastics, and cookware sets are packaged in organic cotton.

Growth of Demand for Non-toxic Living

As consumer awareness of product toxins grows, so does demand for non-toxic living options, the guests discuss. Brands like Carraway are playing a pivotal role by offering non-toxic alternatives and educating consumers.

Nathan articulates Carraway's vision of empowering consumers to create a toxin-free home sanctuary by providing non-toxic products and information.

While the eco-friendly market expands, the need for public education and broader availability of non-toxic options remains, the article recognizes, to shift non-toxic living from an exception to the norm.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • Teflon, when used properly and not overheated, is considered safe by many regulatory agencies, and the health risks may be overstated or only occur under improper use conditions.
  • The link between Teflon and health issues like cancer is based on PFOA, a chemical formerly used in the production of Teflon, which has been largely phased out since 2013.
  • There is a debate about the relative risks and benefits of non-stick coatings, with some arguing that the convenience and reduced need for cooking oils can contribute to healthier cooking habits.
  • The risk of Teflon poisoning, while real, is relatively rare and typically associated with extreme misuse, such as overheating pans to temperatures above 500°F (260°C).
  • Some may argue that the alternatives to Teflon and other non-stick surfaces may not perform as well in terms of non-stick properties, potentially leading to a trade-off between performance and perceived safety.
  • The production and disposal of any cookware, including those made from glass or organic materials, have environmental impacts that should be considered when discussing eco-friendliness.
  • While Carraway's mission is commendable, it's important to critically evaluate the environmental claims of any company, as "greenwashing" can sometimes exaggerate the environmental benefits of a product or company's practices.
  • The increase in consumer demand for non-toxic living options is positive, but it's important to ensure that these options are accessible and affordable for a wide range of consumers, not just those in higher socioeconomic brackets.
  • Education on non-toxic living is important, but it should be balanced with information on how to safely use a variety of products, including those that contain chemicals, to avoid unnecessary fear or misinformation.
  • The push for non-toxic living should be evidence-based, ensuring that alternatives are not only perceived as safer but are supported by scientific research to be better for health and the environment.

Actionables

  • You can start a kitchenware swap in your community to exchange potentially harmful cookware for safer alternatives. Organize a local event where neighbors bring their old Teflon or plastic-containing kitchen items and swap them for items made of glass, stainless steel, or cast iron. This not only promotes the use of safer cookware but also encourages community engagement and awareness about non-toxic living.
  • Create a personal non-toxic living guide by researching and documenting safer alternatives for common household items. Begin with one room in your home, like the kitchen, and list all the items that could potentially contain toxins. Then, research and note down safer alternatives for each item, such as ceramic-coated cookware instead of non-stick pans, glass containers instead of plastic ones, and natural fiber dishcloths. Use this guide to gradually replace items in your home, and share your findings with friends and family to help them make similar changes.
  • Develop a habit of checking product labels for certifications that indicate non-toxic and eco-friendly manufacturing. Look for labels such as "GreenGuard," "OEKO-TEX," or "Cradle to Cradle Certified" when purchasing new items for your home. These certifications often mean the product has been tested for harmful substances and is safer for both your health and the environment. Make a list of these certifications and keep it on your phone for quick reference while shopping.

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Is Your Cookware Making You Sick? The Truth About Toxins in the Kitchen w/ Jordan Nathan of Caraway

Dangers of Toxic Cookware Materials Like Teflon

The article explores the dangers of using Teflon in cookware, its origins, the health risks it poses, and how exposure can happen unexpectedly.

Teflon: Problematic Material in Cookware

Teflon: From Military Development to Household Use, Linked To Health Issues

Teflon, developed in the 1930s for the Manhattan Project's military applications, became commercially available and found its way to household cookware due to its non-stick properties. It traced its use from the Cold War to spaceships and eventually to consumer products including water repellent items, carpets, couches, raincoats, diapers, cookware, and kitchen accessories. However, it has been associated with various health issues such as multiple types of cancer, lower sperm counts, behavioral issues, and negative effects on sleep and gut health.

Exposure to Teflon Can Occur Rapidly and Unexpectedly.

Jordan's Teflon Poisoning From Pan Spurs Action Via Carraway

Jordan Nathan had a frightening experience with Teflon poisoning when he left a Teflon-coated pan unattended over an open flame. Returning to find the pan turned black and his apartment filled with fumes, Nathan and his partner experienced sickness and contacted poison control, who indicated that their symptoms were consistent with Teflon poisoning.

Teflon and Toxic Cookware Pose Health Risks

Cookware Contains Harmful Substances Like Lead, Cadmium, and Microplastics, Contributing To Toxicity

In addition to Teflon, it’s been revealed that cookware can contain other harmful substances like lead, cadmi ...

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Dangers of Toxic Cookware Materials Like Teflon

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • Teflon, when used properly and not overheated, is considered safe by many regulatory agencies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
  • The primary concerns with Teflon come from PFOA, a substance used in its manufacture, which has been largely phased out due to health concerns.
  • Proper ventilation and cooking at recommended temperatures can significantly reduce the risk of any potential Teflon-related fumes.
  • There are many types of non-stick cookware on the market, some of which use alternative coatings that are marketed as safer than Teflon.
  • The risk of leaching of harmful substances like lead and cadmium is generally associated with poor-quality or improperly glazed ceramic cookware, not all cookware types.
  • Microplastics are a concern in the environment, but the risk associated with kitchen gadgets and food storage items may be relatively low compared to other sources of exposure.
  • The article may not fully acknowledge th ...

Actionables

  • You can start a kitchen detox by identifying and replacing items that may contain harmful substances. Begin with your cookware; opt for items made from safer materials like stainless steel, cast iron, or glass. Check your kitchen gadgets and storage containers, replacing plastic items with glass or stainless steel alternatives to reduce microplastic exposure. For example, swap out plastic spatulas for wooden or silicone ones and use glass jars instead of plastic containers for food storage.
  • Create a simple "cookware use and care" guide to avoid accidental exposure to toxins. This guide should include tips like never preheating non-stick pans at high temperatures, using pans on low to medium heat, and avoiding metal utensils that can scratch cookware surfaces. You could keep this guide in a visible spot in the kitchen, such as on the fridge or inside a cabinet door, as a reminder for safe cooking practices.
  • Engage in a "water watch" initiative ...

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Is Your Cookware Making You Sick? The Truth About Toxins in the Kitchen w/ Jordan Nathan of Caraway

Carraway's Mission to Create Safe, Non-toxic Cookware Products

Jordan Nathan’s personal ordeal with Teflon poisoning led him to establish Carraway Cookware—a brand that champions the production of safe, non-toxic cookware.

Carraway Was Founded to Address Toxic Cookware Dangers

Carraway was specifically founded after Jordan Nathan's own negative experience with Teflon poisoning, as a response to the dangers posed by toxic cookware materials.

After Teflon Poisoning, Jordan Created a Brand For Non-toxic Cookware

Nathan’s encounter with Teflon poisoning inspired him to create a solution in the form of Carraway, a brand that prioritizes non-toxic, eco-friendly cookware. Nathan recognized Teflon's health risks and saw an opportunity to revolutionize cookware.

Carraway's Products Use Non-toxic, Eco-friendly Materials

Nathan's battle against the use of toxic materials drove the decision to distance Carraway from using plastics or Teflon in their products.

Company Chooses Safe Materials Over Teflon and Plastics

Carraway deliberately selects safer materials for their products. Nathan is committed to using glass and organic cotton linen, avoiding plastics and Teflon—substances commonly found in traditional cookware. Carraway's focus on non-toxic materials is not only for safer cooking but also to make their products aesthetically appealing to consumers. Caraway aims to replace harmful Teflon, microplastics, and lead with user-friendly and environmentally responsible alternatives, emphasizing product quality over cost.

Carraway's Approach Extends Beyond Just the Cook ...

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Carraway's Mission to Create Safe, Non-toxic Cookware Products

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Teflon poisoning can occur when non-stick cookware coated with Teflon is overheated, releasing toxic fumes that can cause flu-like symptoms known as polymer fume fever. Prolonged exposure to these fumes may lead to more severe health issues. Teflon itself contains perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a chemical linked to various health concerns. Switching to non-toxic cookware options can help reduce the risk of Teflon poisoning.
  • Carraway Cookware prioritizes non-toxic and eco-friendly materials like glass and organic cotton linen in their products, avoiding traditional substances like Teflon and plastics. The brand focuses on creating aesthetically appealing cookware while emphasizing user safety and environmental responsibility. Carraway aims to replace harmful materials like Teflon, microplastics, and lead with sustainable alternatives without compromising product quality. Additionally, the company's commitment extends to eco-friendly packaging practices, utilizing cardboard instead of single-use plastics.
  • Jordan Nathan's personal experience with Teflon poisoning motivated him to create Carraway Cookware as a solution to the health risks associated with toxic cookware materials. Teflon poisoning occurs when non-stick cookware coated with Teflon is overheated, releasing harmful fumes that can cause flu-like symptoms known as polymer fume fever. Carraway Cookware aims to provide non-toxic alternatives to traditional cookware materials like Teflon, prioritizing safety and health in the kitchen. Nathan's mission with Carraway is to raise awareness about the dangers of toxic cookware and offer consumers a safer, eco-friendly option for their cooking needs.
  • Using glass and organic cotton linen in cookware is significant because they are non-toxic and eco-friendly materials, unlike plastics and Teflon which can pose health risks. Glass is inert and does not leach chemicals into food, while organic cotton linen is a sustainable and biodegradable option. These materials align with Carraway's mission to provide safe and environmentally responsible alternatives in cookware production. The choice of glass and organic cotton linen reflects a commitment to both user safety and sustainability in the kitchen. ...

Counterarguments

  • The claim of Teflon poisoning may need scientific backing to substantiate the severity and likelihood of such an event, as Teflon is generally considered safe for cooking at recommended temperatures.
  • While Carraway's focus on non-toxic and eco-friendly materials is commendable, the performance and durability of these materials compared to traditional non-stick surfaces have not been addressed.
  • The cost of Carraway's products may be higher due to the use of premium materials, which could make them less accessible to a broader audience.
  • The environmental impact of producing alternative materials like glass and organic cotton linen may not be negligible and should be compared to the impact of producing Teflon and plastics.
  • The effectiveness of Carraway's cookware in terms of heat distribution, non-stick properties, and ease of cleaning could be compared to traditional cookware to provide a more balanced view.
  • The long-term sustainability of Carraway's business model hinges on consumer willingness to pay a premium for ...

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Is Your Cookware Making You Sick? The Truth About Toxins in the Kitchen w/ Jordan Nathan of Caraway

Growth of Demand for Non-toxic Living

As consumers become increasingly aware of product toxins—particularly amidst health concerns amplified by COVID-19—the demand for non-toxic living is growing.

Consumers More Aware of Product Toxins

Awareness of toxins in everyday products, like Teflon commonly found in cookware, has surged. The guests discuss the critical nature of creating a toxin-free home environment, especially considering that people care more now about the toxicity of products they use daily. Infertility issues, sperm count decline, gut health problems, PCOS, hormonal imbalances, and fertility issues are all rising concerns connected to exposure to toxins found in the home.

Carraway and Non-toxic Living Brands

Carraway and similar brands are playing a pivotal role in this health-conscious shift. These brands not only offer non-toxic product alternatives but also contribute to consumer education on the availability of these options. Nathan from Carraway articulates a vision of empowering consumers to make non-toxic choices and fostering the creation of a sanctuary at home, undisturbed by environmental chemicals that are otherwise hard to avoid.

Carraway's goal is to build a brand where consumer choices lead to a non-toxic home environment. They aim to encourage a lifestyle shift by providing products and information that enable consumers to remove toxins from their living spaces ...

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Growth of Demand for Non-toxic Living

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common health condition that affects people with ovaries. It can cause hormonal imbalances and problems with the menstrual cycle. Symptoms may include irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, and weight gain. PCOS can also impact fertility and increase the risk of other health issues like diabetes and heart disease.
  • Teflon is a brand name for a synthetic chemical called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) used in non-stick cookware. When heated to high temperatures, Teflon can release toxic fumes that may pose health risks. Overheating Teflon-coated cookware can lead to the release of harmful chemicals into the air.
  • Sperm count decline is a term used to describe a decrease in the concentration of sperm in a man's ejaculate. This decline in sperm count can impact fertility and is a significant concern for reproductive health. Factors such as environmental toxins, lifestyle choices, and certain medical conditions can contribute to a decrease in sperm count. Monitoring sperm count is important for assessing male fertility and addressing potential reproductive issues.
  • Gut health problems can encompass a range of issues affecting the digestive system, such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, or dysbiosis. These conditions can lead to symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation. Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome through a balanced diet, probiotics, and lifestyle choices is crucial for overall well-being. The gut microbiome, which consists of trillions of microorganisms in the digestive tract, plays a significant role in digestion, immune function, and overall health.
  • Infertility issues can arise when a couple experiences difficulty conceiving a child through natural means after a year of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. Causes of infertility can stem from ...

Counterarguments

  • The perceived link between product toxins and health issues like infertility and hormonal imbalances may not be conclusively proven, as many factors can contribute to these health problems.
  • The increase in consumer awareness might be influenced by marketing strategies that play on fears rather than scientific consensus.
  • Non-toxic and eco-friendly products can sometimes be more expensive, making them less accessible to lower-income consumers, which could slow down the adoption of non-toxic living.
  • The definition of "non-toxic" can vary, and not all products labeled as such may be free from harmful substances, leading to potential consumer misinformation.
  • The growth of the non-toxic product market could lead to greenwashing, where companies claim their products are eco-friendly or non-toxic without substantial evidence.
  • Some traditional products may have a longer lifespan or be more effective in their function than their non-toxic counter ...

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