For over 40 years scientists have known that the fumes from hot non-stick surfaces can kill pet birds such as canaries. So just how dangerous are they to you?
Several studies have been conducted into health concerns surrounding Teflon, the coating invented and patented by DuPont. The results have been disturbing, if somewhat inconclusive.
Non Stick Cookware
While the lethal effect on birds is well documented and not in dispute, much of the other evidence tends to be anecdotal at best. And some of it is downright confusing.
For example, the chemical perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is usually cited as the villain of the piece and the root cause of the illnesses that have allegedly appeared in some users. However DuPont claims Teflon doesn't contain this chemical, although it is used in the manufacturing process.
Whatever the truth of that may be, it's certainly accurate to say that there have been a number of health issues emerging in the community immediately adjacent to the DuPont factory in Parkersburg, West Virginia; more about that later.
There also seems to be some disagreement among authorities as to the temperatures at which the bird-lethal fumes are given off. These are quoted as ranging from 285°F to 475° and more.
Since both these figures are well within the smoke points of edible oils such as avocado and safflower, keeping your budgie in or near the kitchen is definitely not good for his health.
But what about your health?
Human victims have complained of flu-like symptoms, some leading to respiratory complications, after using non-stick cookware. Some reactions have been reported as "severe"".
At least one report suggests that the fumes may be cancer inducing after prolonged exposure, although none suggest that Teflon itself is harmful if swallowed.
If the fumes are harmful to humans, then there is much more to consider than just kitchen items. Some brands of light bulb, portable heaters and even Gore Tex clothing are all produced using PFOA, the same reactive agent used in the case of Teflon.
Not surprisingly, DuPont denies there is any problem; but this hasn't prevented the company from paying out millions of dollars in compensation, not only to their employees but to 50,000 people living in the vicinity of the Parkersburg factory. You have to ask yourself "why?".
Complaints have included accusations of water pollution, high infant mortality rates and a greater than normal incidence of cancer among the local population. DuPont has never admitted liability in any of these cases.
While the jury still seems to be out on the safety or otherwise of Teflon in the home, even DuPont's own experts advise caution when using non-stick items, particularly with regard to high cooking temperatures.
And this is something you can rely on: when Teflon and similar coatings are heated to a certain point, fumes are given off. These fumes will kill pet birds that inhale them. It's therefore reasonable to suppose that other forms of life may also be at risk.
You can get more information on the Teflon debate from this address http://www.ewg.org/reports/toxicteflon/es.php
For a definitive article on the effects of Teflon fumes on birds, visit this site http://www.theaviary.com/teflon.shtml
Black Friday Farberware 20772 Enhanced 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set 2011 Deals
Nov 28, 2011 11:38:13
Click for larger image and other views
Black Friday Farberware 20772 Enhanced 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set Feature
- 10-piece nonstick cooking set in gray; includes 1-, 1-1/2- and 2-quart covered saucepans, 5-quart covered Dutch oven, 7- and 10-inch open skillets
- Aluminum construction for consistent heat-transfer
- Nonstick surface on both interior and exterior for easy clean-up
- See-through glass lids; silicone-enhanced durably riveted handles
- Dishwasher safe; oven safe to 350 degrees F; backed by limited lifetime warranty
Black Friday Farberware 20772 Enhanced 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set Overview
This cookware set is an exceptional value, including all of the pans needed to equip your kitchen with the most used cooking pieces. As the set contains only basic pieces, you'll really use each and every pan. It includes saucepans for whisking a homemadSAVE NOW on Black Friday offers below!
Available In Stock. |
| This Black Friday Farberware 20772 Enhanced 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping. |
Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please. |
Limited Offer Today!! Farberware 20772 Enhanced 10-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2011 Deals
Cordless Tool Combo Kits Sony Digital Media Player Vizio Tv 47 Inch