|  | Public Health Safety | Food Safety

Hazards of Silicone Bakeware

Silicone bakeware product offerings range from muffin cups to pan liners, cake pans and novelty bundt pans. Silicone bakeware is convenient to use as it is non-stick, durable, attractively colored, flexible and easy to clean. But the main question is, is it really completely safe to use? Many consumers have asked this question, especially home bakers and pastry chefs. There are some possible hazards, concerns and considerations regarding the use of silicon bakeware that you should be aware of before you start cooking.

  1. Safety

    • Since the release of silicone cookware, there has not been sufficient research on its safety for cooking use, therefore one of the main concerns is that the product may be unsafe and/or that chemicals may leak into cookware. However, although silicone bakeware itself hasn't been fully tested, the FDA has stated that in general silicone rubber is inert, which means it does not leech into food items; does not emit any sort of fumes; and does not pose any serious health risks. It is also considered a non-reactive material and is actually a good choice for a low-risk type of cookware. Should you be concerned about the possible risks of its long-term use, you can confine your silicone use to trivets, spatulas and other tools that are not consistently exposed to heat. If you frequently use silicone pans, always remember that they should be used on and laid on a firm surface such as a cookie sheet while in use because touching or lifting it from the oven can give you burns.

    Chemical Breakdown

    • Another potential hazard involves the breakdown of the silicone rubber and chemicals when exposed to heat. However, silicone is chemically stable, as read in its data sheet and material safety information, and it is unlikely to cause food to become unsafe to consume. Some believe that silicone breaks down easily when exposed to high heat, but this is untrue. Silicone is actually recyclable but not biodegradable.

    Burns

    • Like any bakeware, silicone cookware becomes warm when placed in the oven or exposed to heat; therefore, you have to use caution not to burn yourself when cooking with silicone bakeware. However, silicone is heat resistant and actually cools faster than most traditional bakeware. Remember though to always wear pot holders or oven mitts when removing them from the oven. Silicone bakware is not cut resistant, however, so never attempt to cut your baked goods in it.

Food Safety - Related Articles