When choosing cookware, it is important to pay attention to quality, durability, and utility. Cookware comes in different materials, often making it difficult to choose. From stainless steel to aluminium, brass, non-stick and anodized – there is a wide variety. Most buyers feel particularly perplexed when choosing between non-stick and anodized cookware because they appear similar. The popularity of utensils made using both these materials is growing. Reports suggest that the non-stick cookware market that stood at USD 744.27 million in 2023, is likely to grow up to USD 1231.76 million by 2031. Likewise, the anodized cookware market is also witnessing growth.
It is necessary to understand the difference between the two to make the right choice. This article shares a detailed anodized vs non-stick cookware analysis to help in this regard. Read on to find out!
Non-Stick Cookware: What You Need to Know?
Non-stick cookware is covered with a coating of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Also known as Teflon, PTFE is a synthetic chemical made with a combination of fluorine and carbon. You will find all kinds of cookware in this material, including pans, pressure cookers, grillers, sandwich toasters, pots, bakeware, and oven trays, to name a few. Let us take a look at the reasons for its popularity, safety concerns, and more:
1. What Makes Non-Stick Cookware Popular?
The popularity of non-stick cookware has increased over the years. The non-stick cookware market is expected to grow at a compound CAGR of 6.5% between 2023 to 2030. Here’s a look at the reasons for its increasing popularity:
- It is widely used because of its non-sticky, frictionless surface that enables convenient cooking.
- You do not require adding a lot of oil to a non-stick pan, which makes it ideal for preparing low fat food.
- Non-stick cookware is easy to clean because residues of food are less likely to stick to it.
- If taken care of, cookware made using non-stick material can last for years.
2. Non-Stick Cookware Safety Concerns
Certain studies have raised safety concerns over cooking in non-stick cookware. As per a report by the Environmental Protection Agency, a chemical used in the making of PTFE is harmful to humans and the environment. This chemical is known as PFOA. By 2015, there were orders to remove the hazardous chemicals from the factories where the non-stick cookware was manufactured. It is said that non-stick cookware manufactured after the implementation of this order is comparatively safer to use. Other materials are being used now as a replacement for PFOA to reduce the risk.
3. Word of Caution
- Non-stick cookware incurs starches quickly if not handled properly. It is important to choose the right spatula and cleaning scrub to reduce this possibility.
- It is said that non-stick cookware should be placed only on low to medium flame. Cooking on high flame tends to degrade the PTFE coating.
Hard Anodized Cookware Explained
Hard anodized cookware is made using an electrochemical process known as anodization. The aluminium used in this cookware becomes harder with this process. The material is non-reactive and boasts non-stick properties. The utensils made using this material are heat-efficient and durable. Let us take a closer look at the benefits of anodized cookware, the correct way to use it, and more.
1. What Makes Anodized Cookware a Popular Choice?
The global hard anodized cookware market stood at around USD 3.5 billion in 2023. It is likely to rise to USD 5.8 billion by 2032. Let us look at the reasons for its growing popularity:
- Anodized cookware is corrosion-resistant.
- It offers a tough cooking surface which is resistant to scratches. This makes it more durable.
- The material is not likely to react with acidic or alkaline food items.
- It heats quickly and provides even heat distribution for a better cooking experience.
- It is non-sticky and enables cooking with less oil. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a healthy, low-fat diet.
- It can be cleaned easily with a soft scrub and mild detergent.
2. Word of Caution
- Since this type of cookware heats up almost instantly, it is better to use a medium flame for cooking.
- Although, it is known for its scratch resistant properties, it is suggested to use wooden or silicone spatula to keep its quality intact for a long time.
Anodized vs Non-stick Cookware - Which One Is Better?
Nonstick and anodized cookware are made using stainless steel, copper, or aluminium. However, they undergo some processes that change their properties and utility. We have already discussed essential details about the two in the paragraphs above. Here is a quick look at the key differences between them:
Anodized Cookware |
Non-Stick Cookware |
It is scratch-resistant. |
It can get scratched easily if not handled carefully. |
It is tough and comparatively durable. |
It lasts long only if they are used and maintained properly. |
The material is naturally non-sticky. It does not require any additional coating to gain non-stick properties. |
A coating of PTFE renders non-stick property to it. |
It is low maintenance. |
It requires careful handling and maintenance. |
It can withstand high temperatures although medium-flame cooking is recommended. |
Low- to medium-flame cooking is considered ideal to prevent quality deterioration. |
It is safe to cook and reheat food in anodized cookware. |
The harmful effects of cooking in non-stick cookware are often pointed out. Although the ones devoid of PFOA are considered safe to use. |
Find the Best Cookware on ZOP
ZOP offers a wide variety of cookware made using different materials, including anodized, non-stick, and stainless steel. It sells products by trusted brands. You can find high-quality strainer pots, pans, skillets, cookers and other items on ZOP. Our premium selection of cookware is known for its sturdiness and durability. It ensures even heat distribution and offers ease of cooking. Our range of non-stick cookware enables cooking healthy meals with minimal use of oil or butter. They are easy to clean and stay in good condition for a long time. Our non-stick pizza and bake pan, oven grill tray, and grill pan with collapsible handle are among the hot-selling products.
Log on to ZOP to explore these and a variety of other stylish and durable cookware. They have been designed to elevate your cooking experience. We come up with lucrative offers and special discounts from time to time. This makes our high-quality yet affordable range all the more cost-effective. We offer multiple payment options and a secure payment gateway to enhance your shopping experience.
Conclusion
Anodized and non-stick cookware have their unique set of features and functionality. Anodized cookware is known for its sturdy build and ability to distribute heat evenly for better cooking. It is also non-reactive, which means acidic and alkaline food can be cooked safely in pans and pots made using this material. Just like non-stick cookware, anodized also has non-stick properties. Both of them can, thus, be used to cook food using less oil and are ideal for those who prefer healthier food options. They are also easy to clean because of their non-sticky nature. Food particles do not stick on them easily because of which they can be cleaned with ease. ZOP offers a variety of high quality cookware under different categories. Check out their latest range and pick suitable items to meet your kitchen needs.