Toxins in Kitchenware

Many commonly used kitchen products and utensils may be linked with the symptoms and signs of toxicity, especially those make from heavy metals and plastics. Diagnosis of heavy metal toxicity is typically made by hair analysis. The following is a list of potential sources of toxins in the kitchen.

Alternatives to these items:

Use glass, cast iron, porcelain or enamel pans, terra cotta clay, and stainless steel which has never been scoured (let soak to remove stains). Acidic foods absorb metals the most, so minimize their contact (fruits, tomatoes, vinegar-containing food). Use wax paper instead of foil. The shiny side of foil contains a plastic which vaporizes when heated and may contaminate food.

METALS

SOURCES

TOXICITY

COPPER

pots and pans, gelatin molds

liver and brain disease (with large exposures)

ALUMINUM

pots and pans, baking pans, foil cans, food packaging, cooking utensils

anorexia, ataxia, colic, dementia, difficulty breathing, esophagitis, gastroenteritis, liver dysfunction, nephritis, muscle pain, psychosis, muscle weakness

LEAD

some glazed earthenware and pottery, tin cans, pewter, some crystal, wine cork covers

anemia, anorexia, anxiety, impaired concentration, confusion, constipation, depression, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, headaches, high blood pressure, incoordination, irritability, impaired memory, abdominal pain, bone pain, muscle pain, restlessness and tremor

STAINLESS STEEL

(leaks nickel after being scoured once)

pots and pans, bakeware, utensils, flatware

gastrointestinal upset, possible association with cancer

CADMIUM

galvanized containers and roasting pans, some ceramic and pottery glazes

hair loss, anemia, loss of appetite, emphysema, fatigue, liver dysfunction, high blood pressure, joint pain, osteoporosis, back and leg pain, dry skin, yellowed teeth

Alternatives to plastics:

Use wooden bowls and utensils, glass or paper milk and beverage containers. Hard plastics leak less than flexible ones. For non-stick surfaces, use seasoned cast iron or a thin layer of lecithin. Line baking pans with parchment paper.

PLASTICS

SOURCES

TOXICITY

food packaging, Tupperware‚ plastic wrap/bags, kitchen utensils, beverage containers, milk jugs, drinking cups, Teflon‚ non-stick coating, Styrofoam‚

suspected carcinogen, gastrointestinal upset, headache, fatigue, birth defects, liver disease, skin disease, nervous system problems; contains numerous additives which have not been investigated for their toxicity