I’m on a bit of a ramble today…so just bear with me.
Spatulas, like the black plastic ones in this short video posted by America’s Test Kitchen are one of the reasons why I’ve transition from the cookware I had, to Hexclad. With Hexclad pots and pans, I won’t have any issues with this cookware getting scratched or damaged, which is one of the reasons people use plastic cooking utensils. they don’t want to damage their pots and pans. I can use any metal cooking utensils in these pots and pans without the fear of damaging the non-stick surface, as long as they are beveled and smooth properly. And I’m a die hard believer in Melamine and stainless steel cooking utensils.
I’m not a wooden spoon cooking user, not by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, the thought of using wooden cooking spoons and spatulas makes me shudder.
However, if I choose to go the ‘wooden utensil’ route I’d use bamboo. Bamboo is naturally antimicrobial, which means that soaking in lemon or vinegar to thoroughly cleanse it isn’t a requirement. Hot soap and water will do nicely.
Cooking with bamboo utensils also helps prevent bacteria from being introduced into food, subsequently causing foodborne illnesses. Which can be irritating at best and life threatening at worst.
It’s also important to remember in this instance, for the most part, you get what you pay for. Do a search on the products you want to buy to see if they use landfill plastic to repurpose into cooking utensils and other kitchen items. It has been suggested if the utensil has been made with repurposed landfill plastic, but silicone is a part of the manufacturing process, it’s safe. Apparently, silicone will encapsulate any harmful toxins produced during the cooking process by the repurposed plastic making it safe to use. Umm!
There is a nuance to understand here. Companies don’t hide this information. They just don’t tell you. Which means that the onus is on you to find out if the item that you are purchasing is safe for you and your family.
So what will you find my kitchen utensil holder/caddy filled with? Stainless steel and a lot of Melamine. Melamine is plastic, and it’s durable, it’s antimicrobial, it’s lightweight, heat resistant and it feels good in my hands.
I’ve been using this make of utensil for years. In fact, I still have a few cooking spoons that I received as gifts in my bridal shower…40 years ago. The only drawback is that over time they will become discolored.
What are you using to cook with, and is it safe?
Blessings,
Dr. Wendy Dearborne
