If you enjoy cooking, you’ll probably have some cookware that you have purchased for your kitchen. Enameled cast iron is one of the more expensive choices of material for cookware. However, is enameled cast iron cookware safe?
Enameled cast iron cookware is safe because it is a durable material that does not leach iron, has a naturally non-stick surface, and does not rust. These qualities make it a safe choice as it minimizes the risk of health problems associated with cookware made from other materials.
Let’s first take a look at regular cast iron, and see some of the concerns raised about them. We will then see how the qualities of enameled cast iron make it a safer choice for your cooking.
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What Is Enameled Cast Iron?
The ‘enameled’ in enameled cast iron refers to the fortifying of glass with iron to create a new mixture of material. It differs from regular cast iron in that regular cast iron consists of nearly 100% iron. (Pure iron is rare, so regular cast iron cookware is made of around 98% iron.)
Enameled cast iron is the perfect choice for cookware because it is a more stable material compared to regular cast iron. Let’s look at some of its qualities.
It Does Not Leach Iron
The defining feature of enameled cast iron is that it is inert, meaning that it does not leach iron when interacting with heat. The addition of glass into the material gives enameled cast iron its inert quality.
This means that there are no concerns about additional iron leaching into food caused by the heat applied or the acidity of the food cooked.
With this product being reliably inert, there is no risk of iron overloading which can lead to health problems.
Its Surface Is Naturally Non-Stick
The non-stick feature of enameled cast iron means that food particles do not stick stubbornly to the cookware after cooking.
Regular cast iron is non-stick provided that you season them correctly and regularly. Seasoning cookware is a process in which you pour a layer of oil on the cookware and heat it to retain its non-stick nature.
It is unnecessary to season enameled cast iron cookware because they naturally retain their non-stick feature. This is despite repeated use and washing.
This non-stick quality of enameled cast iron cookware makes them easy to wash. There is no risk of stubborn food particles sticking to the cookware, requiring more vigorous scrubbing.
This quality makes them convenient to clean. However, it also makes them safer to use, in the sense that it is less likely for trace particles of food to remain stuck on the surface of the cookware and contaminate your next meal.
It Does Not Rust
Iron eventually rusts. Rusting is a process in which iron reacts with oxygen in the air to produce iron oxide, colloquially known as rust. While iron gives off a silver sheen, rust is discernible from its reddish-brown color.
Because rust changes the color of iron, it is not particularly aesthetically pleasing. Rust can also be unsafe.
When rust interacts with bacteria, you are at a greater risk of being infected if you have an open cut. In a worst-case scenario, this can lead to a dangerous infection known as tetanus.
Tetanus is a disease of the nervous system caused by a bacterial toxin, leading to painful muscular contractions. This disease can be life-threatening.
Therefore, the ability of enameled cast iron to not rust is not just a convenience in that you don’t need to change your cookware once rust forms—it’s also a safety benefit.
Related read check out this article where I dig deeper into these two types of cast iron cookware Cast-Iron Vs Enameled Cast-Iron
Is Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Safer?
Let’s review the facts presented in this article to answer this question.
- Regular cast iron can leach iron into food; enameled cast iron does not. This means there is no risk of iron poisoning.
- Regular cast iron needs to be seasoned regularly for its non-stick quality to be preserved; enameled cast iron is naturally non-stick and does not need to be seasoned. This means there is no risk of stubborn food particles sticking to the surface of the cookware.
- Regular cast iron can rust; enameled cast iron does not. This means that there is no risk of rust-related health and safety issues.
In view of these facts, enameled cast iron cookware is safe to use.
What Are The Concerns With Regular Cast Iron?
Regular cast iron has been used as a material for cookware for centuries. This material has been used in cookware ever since humanity learned to fashion tools out of iron. They are also relatively affordable, making them very popular in kitchens around the world.
However, there are some concerns about regular cast iron that you need to know. Let’s look at a few of them.
It Leaches Iron
One of the primary features of regular cast iron is that it leaches iron into the food when used as cookware.
This isn’t necessarily dangerous, in the past, when dietary iron levels were low, this was a welcome feature. Sufficient dietary iron is essential for healthy growth and development.
A group of people who are sometimes recommended to take iron supplements is menstruating women. This is because menstrual bleeding results in the loss of iron.
If women menstruate heavily, they may be deficient in iron. In this case, the added iron from regular cast iron products can be a good thing.
Another group of people who need iron supplements is people suffering from iron-deficiency anemia. Anemia is a medical condition in which a person lacks red blood cells.
Since iron is needed to produce red blood cells, the lack of dietary iron can lead to anemia. The symptoms of anemia are weakness, decreased energy levels, and shortness of breath.
Therefore, it is clear that a little additional iron can be a bonus for some people.
However, in today’s world, dietary science requires thorough monitoring of vitamin and mineral sources. The ambiguity of the amount of iron leaches from the cookware is not considered positive because it cannot be regularly monitored.
Different grades of cast iron cookware can leach different amounts of iron into the food. Having too much iron in the diet can lead to the opposite medical problem, which is iron toxicity. Iron toxicity occurs when the levels of iron in the body are too high. This can cause symptoms such as stomach pains, nausea, and vomiting.
Because the amounts of iron leaching cannot be quantified, regular cast iron cookware is not regarded as being entirely safe.
It Interacts With Acidic Food
You might remember from your high school science lessons that acids can react with metals. Iron is a metal. A known feature of regular cast iron cookware is that it interacts with acidic food, causing it to leach more iron.
Examples of acidic foods are fish, processed foods, and meats such as beef. When cooking these foods using regular cast iron cookware, the iron in the cookware reacts with the chemicals in acidic food and releases more iron into the food.
Sometimes this additional iron can be tasted in the food—the taste can be described as metallic and bland. However, frequently the additional iron leaves no impact on the taste of the food, especially when there is a large quantity of food being cooked.
This ties in with the first concern of regular cast iron cookware: iron leaching is unpredictable and difficult to quantify. Other factors that can affect the amount of iron leached are the length of cooking and the amount of heat applied to the cookware.
Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Pros and Cons
Enameled cast iron cookware can be easier to maintain than seasoned cast iron. Both can withstand heat at high temperatures. Although you will have to take extra care with enameled cast iron – it should be tread like glass when using hot and cold temperatures.
Read more about the pros and cons of enameled cast iron in my article here.
F.A.Q.’S – About Enameled Cast Iron Cookware
Here are a couple of questions that are often asked about enameled cast iron cookware.
Is Enameled Cast Iron Non-Stick
Enameled cast iron is non-stick if you do not dry cook. Put simply you need oil, lard, butter, or other liquid in the bottom of the pan.
Can You Cook Eggs in Enameled Cast Iron?
You can absolutely cook eggs in enameled cast iron cookware.
There are however some simple tricks to dishing up the perfectly cooked egg every time.
Check out my article here for the secrets to the perfect eggs.
Is enamel cookware non-toxic?
The enamel coating that covers cast iron cookware is non-toxic. It is made of glass, and it is safe to use on all types of cooktops, including induction. Enameled cast iron is also a good choice for those who are looking for a non-stick option.
While the enamel coating will eventually wear away with use, it is not harmful to humans or animals. In fact, many people choose enamel cookware because it is one of the safest options on the market.
Conclusion – Is Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Safe to Use?
Enameled cast iron cookware is a safer option than regular cast iron in that it does not leach iron, has a natural non-stick quality, and does not rust. It is a better choice of material for cookware.
One-Pot Cooking Rocks
Sources
• Paul’s Rubbish Removal: Dangers of Using Rusted Appliances
• Examine.com: Are Cast Iron Pans Unsafe?
• Healthline: Tips for Limiting Acidic Foods
• Wikipedia: Tetanus
• Wikipedia: Iron-Deficiency Anemia
FAQs
Is enameled cast iron safe from toxins? ›
You might be wondering: is enameled cast iron safe? Yes, enameled cast iron is completely safe and non-toxic. Unlike traditional cast iron, enameled cast iron does not leach any iron into your food. It is also more durable, protects your pan from rust, and does not require seasoning.
What should you not use on enameled cast iron? ›Although enameled cast iron is dishwasher safe, hand washing with warm soapy water and a nylon scrub brush is recommended to preserve the cookware's original appearance. Citrus juices and citrus-based cleaners (including some dishwasher detergents) should not be used, as they can dull the exterior gloss.
Which is better cast iron or enameled? ›While enamel is useful in that it eliminates the pitted surface of cast iron where food can more readily get trapped and stick, it is not inherently nonstick and does not build up a seasoning. So each time you cook, you'll need a sufficient amount of fat to avoid stuck-on messes.
Is there lead in enamel cookware? ›Porcelain Enamel
Some people have worried about lead in the enamel cookware, since the enamel coating is often made of clay, which can leach lead. For peace of mind, we got this lead test kit and tested the Le Creuset cookware in two of our homes. No lead was detected.
The safest cookware materials are cast iron, stainless steel, 100% non toxic ceramic, glass, and enamel-coated cast iron (cast iron with a glass coating). These nonstick and non-toxic cookware are not only clean and eco-friendly but also completely safe for our health.
What's the safest pan to cook with? ›- Best Overall: Caraway Home Cookware Set.
- Most Versatile: Our Place Always Pan.
- Best Set: Green Pan Valencia Pro 11-Piece Cookware Set.
- Best Budget: GreenLife Soft Grip Set.
- Most Durable: Xtrema Versa Skillet.
- Best Stainless Steel: All-Clad d3 Cookware Set.
A common question we get asked is “Can I use metal utensils on my porcelain-enameled cast iron grates?” The answer is yes! Your porcelain-enameled cast iron grates create a tough, non-stick surface that will withstand mild abrasion.
Can you use vinegar on enamel cast iron? ›I've been asked many times if the black rim around the top of an enameled cast-iron Dutch oven is bare iron. Typically, it is black, matte-finish enamel and will not rust. It's Non-Reactive: Enameled cast iron will not react with acidic foods, such as those made with tomatoes, wine, vinegar, or citrus.
Is scratched enameled cast iron safe? ›Is Scratched Enameled Cast Iron Safe? While there are no set guidelines, most experts believe that scratched enameled cast iron cookware is safe to use. The most important thing to remember is that the cookware is in excellent condition and not cracked or chipped.
Why does food stick to my enamel cast iron? ›The reason your enamel cast-iron is sticky or has food sticking to the inside of the enamel is that it is not a non-stick cooking surface. Combining a non-stick cooking surface, with the exceptional heat output from cast-iron and not enough oil or other liquid is what makes it sticky over time.
Can you boil water in enameled cast iron? ›
Yes, you can boil water safely in enameled cast iron. Enameled cast iron does not require seasoning, unlike traditional cast iron. The enamel coating is incredibly durable. Water boils at 212º and you can safely heat enameled cast iron to 400º to 450º.
How long will enameled cast iron last? ›On the other hand, enameled cast-iron utensils have a short life expectancy and can last 3-5 years, and need special attention to last. They don't tolerate high heat, and the glazed enamel coating can chip, crack or come off with rough usage.
Is enameled cast iron PFOA free? ›Le Creuset Enameled Signature Skillet
Highlights: Le Creuset offers the even cooking of cast iron with an enameled cooking surface that makes clean up and maintenance almost effortless. Busy cooks will appreciate the lighter material as well. Le Creuset products are PFAS, PFOA, and PTFE free.
Enameled cast iron cookware is a safer option than regular cast iron in that it does not leach iron, has a natural non-stick quality, and does not rust. It is a better choice of material for cookware.
Is enameled cast iron the same as ceramic? ›The terms enameled cast iron and ceramic coated cast iron mean the same thing. Both the outer and inner layers of the cast iron are coated for added resilience and versatility. However, some pieces may only have a ceramic coating on the outside. The enamel is often made of glass chips, oxides, clay, and water.
What cookware should you avoid? ›Teflon (and other similar chemicals):
Anything coated with Teflon (think non-stick pans) or similar chemicals should be avoided in the kitchen. Teflon is made of a specific type of Perfluorocarbon (PFC) that makes the surface of cookware resistant to sticking.
PTFE-coated cookware is the other main non stick option on the market. PTFE is FDA approved and deemed safe by the U.S. Consumer Safety Commission and provides the best slick surface on the market.
When should you throw away non-stick pans? ›Nonstick Pans Do Not Last Forever
A good rule of thumb is to replace them approximately every five years. Look at your pans frequently. When they start to appear warped, discolored or scratched, be sure to stop using them.
The most common types of fry or saute pans used by professional chefs are: Aluminum – Stainless Steel – Copper – Cast Iron and each has it's own particular characteristics and advantages. Each one also has at least one disadvantage.
Is Granite safe for cooking? ›Granite stoneware pans are considered as the most healthy and safe cookware available on the market, made with no lead, no harmful chemicals of any kind, 100% free of APEO, GenX, PFBS, PFOS, PFOA, passed SGS, MA, CNAS food grade safety inspections.
What is enameled cast iron? ›
Enameled cast iron is cast iron that has a vitreous enamel glaze applied to the surface. The fusion of the glaze with the cast iron prevents rusting, eliminates the need to season the metal, and allows more thorough cleaning. Enameled cast iron is excellent for slow cooking and drawing flavor from foods.
Can you use steel wool on enameled cast iron? ›If you have an enameled cast iron Dutch oven, you know not to use metal utensils to stir, steel wool to clean, or abrasive cleaners.
What utensils can be used on enameled cast iron? ›A Note on Enameled Cast Iron
Still, better to use silicone or wooden utensils with this type of cast iron, and save the metal spatulas for your properly seasoned (but otherwise naked) cast iron skillet. You can also use metal utensils with your seasoned carbon steel pans.
Use a fine grade steel wool pad and scrub the pan surface, inside and out, to remove rust and debris. Wash the residue with hot water and mild soap if needed. Once you have cleaned all the residue off the cast iron skillet, wash and dry your skillet as noted.
Can I use baking soda on enameled cast iron? ›If you've got a real challenge on your hands, try making a paste of dish soap and baking soda. Spread that onto your enameled cast iron dutch oven and let it sit overnight. The next morning, add a few drops of water and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any remaining scorched bits.
Is baking soda safe on enameled cast iron? ›To use baking soda to clean enameled cast iron: Dampen a cloth with water and then dab it into some baking soda. Rub the enameled surface with this cloth in light circular motions, focusing on the stained area. Rinse well and dry.
Can you soak enameled cast iron overnight? ›Soak, Soak Baby -- with Baking Soda:
StacyG suggests soaking the pot overnight with baking soda and hot water. The next morning, scrub it with a dish brush and repeat the process if needed.
The pot marks look like scratches, but they do not penetrate the enameled surface. To clean, apply a small amount of KOHLER Cast Iron Cleaner (K-23725) to the marks. Use a soft cloth or cork to gently rub the marks away.
Is it OK to use chipped Le Creuset? ›Because the chip is on the outside of the pot, it should still be fine to use, except for a (leaking) hairline fracture extending down from the rim of the pot almost two inches. Le Creuset's lifetime warranty is no help, as the original owner has passed away, and I wouldn't want a replacement anyway!
Does enameled cast iron need to be seasoned? ›Thanks to its slick enameled coating, food will resist sticking, burning and crusting on the surface. Also, unlike traditional cast iron, the enameled version doesn't require seasoning, so maintenance is a breeze.
Can you fry eggs in enameled cast iron? ›
You can cook eggs in an enameled cast iron just like any other pan. However, this is not a beginner-friendly pan to cook eggs because it requires specific techniques like seasoning the pan and observing the heat.
Can I cook bacon in enameled cast iron? ›How To Cook Bacon in a Cast Iron Skillet - YouTube
How do you keep food from sticking to the enamel pan? ›Heat the cookware for two to three minutes on medium heat, then add a thin layer of oil before adding food. The combination of the hot cookware and the oil protects it from sticking.
Can you cook pasta in enameled cast iron? ›When boiling anything in seasoned cast iron, you risk weakening or removing the seasoning. And boiling in an enameled cast iron is less efficient. In addition, cast iron is heavy; therefore, you will need to make sure you can carry it when it's full of water.
Can you put enameled cast iron in the oven? ›Enameled cast iron can be used reliably on any heat source, including induction, and with any oven or grill. It has the ability to retain heat efficiently, which allows for use of lower heat settings in stovetop and oven cooking.
Can rice be cooked in cast iron? ›Use our cast iron method for fail-proof rice, every time. For many cooks, the simplest of dishes—steamed rice—is also the whitest of whales. We combine rice and water in a saucepan, apply low heat, and pray that the result won't be too gummy or too dry.
Which is better porcelain or enamel cast iron? ›Rusting. The most significant advantage that enamel products hold over non-enameled products is that they don't need to be seasoned. Cast iron has to be seasoned to stop it from rusting; enamel does not.
What's the difference between cast iron and enameled cast iron? ›One of the biggest differences between raw and enamel is that enameled cast iron doesn't require seasoning and is relatively easy to clean. However, care must be taken to ensure that the enamel remains protected. Never add cold water to a hot pot and be sure that you never drop it on a hard surface.
Can you sear in enameled cast iron? ›While you definitely can sear large cuts of meat in enameled cast iron, it will eventually lead to surface staining, which is difficult to remove. The Finish Can Be Fragile: The great thing about regular cast iron is that even if you beat it up a little, it comes back for more.
Is Le Creuset made in China? ›Not all Le Creuset products get made in France, but the brand manufactures all cast iron products at the original foundry in Northern France. Le Creuset makes its stainless steel products in Portugal, the stoneware comes from Thailand and the accessories come from China.
Is cast iron healthier than non stick? ›
Non-Stick: Which is better for cooking? Non-stick utensils have harmful PFAs/Teflon coating, termed as forever chemicals and damage your health in the long run. Cast Iron utensils on the other hand not only give you a good surface to cook in, but are also 100% Natural and adds much-needed iron nutrients to your food.
Does cast iron contain lead? ›Is Lead Used to Make Cast Iron Cookware? In general, lead is not used to make cast iron cookware. The reason for this is that lead has a much lower melting pot than iron. Iron melts at 1,535° C while lead melts at 327.5 °C.
Is enamel coating toxic? ›You might be wondering: is enameled cast iron safe? Yes, enameled cast iron is completely safe and non-toxic. Unlike traditional cast iron, enameled cast iron does not leach any iron into your food. It is also more durable, protects your pan from rust, and does not require seasoning.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of enamel cookware? ›All in all, enameled cast iron cookware is versatile, durable, and attractive. It's also heavier than other kinds of cookware, and the coating can crack or chip. It also requires more care than regular non-stick or stainless steel options.
How can you tell if cast iron is enameled? ›ENAMELED CAST IRON VS. RAW CAST IRON - YouTube
What can you not cook in enameled cast iron? ›- Smelly foods. Garlic, peppers, some fish, stinky cheeses and more tend to leave aromatic memories with your pan that will turn up in the next couple of things you cook in it. ...
- Eggs and other sticky things (for a while) ...
- Delicate fish. ...
- Acidic things—maybe.
Enameled cast iron is a better choice out of the two as it has a nonstick coating to help you out. However, stainless steel skillets and pans take the cake as they're ideal in terms of construction, cost, durability, and heat retention.
Are enamel pots healthy? ›Although Enamel-covered cast iron ware can be very expensive (Le Creuset, for example), it does not react with any food; therefore, it is totally non-toxic. It lasts many years and holds the heat well because it is so heavy. It is not non-stick but is a pleasure to look at, coming in many different colors.
Is scratched enameled cast iron safe? ›Is Scratched Enameled Cast Iron Safe? While there are no set guidelines, most experts believe that scratched enameled cast iron cookware is safe to use. The most important thing to remember is that the cookware is in excellent condition and not cracked or chipped.
Is enamel safer than non-stick? ›Enameled cast iron cookware is a safer option than regular cast iron in that it does not leach iron, has a natural non-stick quality, and does not rust. It is a better choice of material for cookware.
What is enamel coating on cast iron made of? ›
Enameled cast iron is cast iron that has a vitreous enamel glaze applied to the surface. The fusion of the glaze with the cast iron prevents rusting, eliminates the need to season the metal, and allows more thorough cleaning.
Is enameled cast iron the same as ceramic? ›The terms enameled cast iron and ceramic coated cast iron mean the same thing. Both the outer and inner layers of the cast iron are coated for added resilience and versatility. However, some pieces may only have a ceramic coating on the outside. The enamel is often made of glass chips, oxides, clay, and water.
Can I use metal utensils on enameled cast iron? ›A common question we get asked is “Can I use metal utensils on my porcelain-enameled cast iron grates?” The answer is yes! Your porcelain-enameled cast iron grates create a tough, non-stick surface that will withstand mild abrasion.
How long does enameled cast iron last? ›On the other hand, enameled cast-iron utensils have a short life expectancy and can last 3-5 years, and need special attention to last. They don't tolerate high heat, and the glazed enamel coating can chip, crack or come off with rough usage.
How do you remove scratches from enameled cast iron? ›The pot marks look like scratches, but they do not penetrate the enameled surface. To clean, apply a small amount of KOHLER Cast Iron Cleaner (K-23725) to the marks. Use a soft cloth or cork to gently rub the marks away.
Can you boil water in enameled cast iron? ›Yes, you can boil water safely in enameled cast iron. Enameled cast iron does not require seasoning, unlike traditional cast iron. The enamel coating is incredibly durable. Water boils at 212º and you can safely heat enameled cast iron to 400º to 450º.
Can you fry in enameled cast iron? ›To deep fry like a pro, you need a sturdy vessel with even heat distribution. Le Creuset enameled cast iron Dutch ovens are ideal for deep frying because the excellent heat distribution and retention of cast iron keeps the oil temperature even and consistent, even when adding larger items like bone-in chicken.
Can you store food in enameled cast iron? ›Your Dutch oven can keep food cold and fresh
Good news for Dutch oven owners — your enameled pot can absolutely go inside the refrigerator. The Kitchn explains that the highly conductive properties of cast iron (what all Dutch ovens are made of) apply as much to heat as they do to cold.
Thanks to its slick enameled coating, food will resist sticking, burning and crusting on the surface. Also, unlike traditional cast iron, the enameled version doesn't require seasoning, so maintenance is a breeze. Health-conscious cooks also like enameled cast iron's ability to block iron from seeping into food.
Can you brown meat in enameled cast iron? ›While you definitely can sear large cuts of meat in enameled cast iron, it will eventually lead to surface staining, which is difficult to remove. The Finish Can Be Fragile: The great thing about regular cast iron is that even if you beat it up a little, it comes back for more.
How can you tell if cast iron is enameled? ›
ENAMELED CAST IRON VS. RAW CAST IRON - YouTube
Is enameled cast iron better than non-stick? ›Enameled cast iron cookware doesn't stick and makes for a much smoother cooking experience, at lower temperatures. Enamel works best at medium temperatures, whereas cast iron works great at low, medium, and higher temperatures.
Which is best stainless steel or enamel? ›Enameled cast iron is a better choice out of the two as it has a nonstick coating to help you out. However, stainless steel skillets and pans take the cake as they're ideal in terms of construction, cost, durability, and heat retention.
Are enamel pots healthy? ›Although Enamel-covered cast iron ware can be very expensive (Le Creuset, for example), it does not react with any food; therefore, it is totally non-toxic. It lasts many years and holds the heat well because it is so heavy. It is not non-stick but is a pleasure to look at, coming in many different colors.