Based on a true story, Netflix's 'Dark Waters' follows attorney Rob Bilott as he takes on chemical giant DuPont over the harmful effects of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) used in the production of Teflon cookware.
PFOA, often referred to as a "forever chemical", does not break down easily in the environment and has been linked to severe health issues, including cancer, birth defects, and other chronic illnesses.
While the use of PFOA in making cookware was phased out in 2013, scratched or chipped Teflon pans may still pose health risks.
ICMR warns that these damaged pans can release toxic fumes/microplastics into food when used at temperatures exceeding 170°C, particularly if left empty on a burner for a long time.
Safer alternatives? Iron, steel and mud utensils. They may require regular maintenance but they are highly durable and retain heat better.
Interestingly, Gujarat's Dhanak tribe has been making non-toxic, all-natural, non-stick cookware for years — an indigenous technique now practiced by only a handful of potter familes.
These sun-dried clay vessels are polished with geru (red ochre paste) and then coated with lac - acquired from the secretion of laccifer lacca, an insect that thrives in kusum & palash trees.
This coating ensures that oil doesn't get absorbed, making the surface nonstick. The clay, on the other hand, ensures the vessel stays hotter for longer!