Is Ceramic Safe to Cook With? Experts Weigh In

As our kitchens have evolved, we've become more knowledgeable about the safety of certain kitchen and cookware materials. From stainless steel to silicone, there are numerous materials used to make up our essential cooking tools, and we must be aware of what is safe to use and what could pose health concerns.

For many, ceramic has been a staple in the kitchen, especially when it comes to baking. Ceramic is great for cooking because it can be a natural nonstick surface and can endure high heat. We spoke to food safety experts to learn more about the safety of cooking with ceramic, what to look out for when choosing ceramic cookware, and whether there are alternative cookware materials that we should consider using instead.

Is Ceramic Safe to Cook With?

Yes, high-quality ceramic cookware is generally safe to cook with. "Ceramic is considered one of the safer options because it doesn't release chemicals at normal cooking temperatures, unlike some nonstick coatings," according to Julia Smith, coo of Mendocino Food Consulting. "Stainless steel and cast iron are also safe choices, but ceramic mainly appeals to those who want a nonstick surface without synthetic chemicals."

Choosing Safe Ceramic

To confirm that ceramic cookware is safe to use, look for products labeled "lead-free" and "food safe." It's common for older ceramic items to contain lead or cadmium in the glaze, says Smith.

When shopping for ceramic cookware, it's best to choose products made in the United States, glazed, and specifically labeled for food contact use, recommends Kimberly Anne Baker, a food systems and safety program team director at Clemson University.

"The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the levels of heavy metals that may be present in cookware and dishes to ensure they are safe for food use," according to Baker. "Cookware and dishware made in other countries may not meet these same safety standards. Always check labels carefully—ceramic dishes marked 'for decorative use only' are not intended for preparing or serving food."

Solid Ceramic Versus Ceramic-Coated Cookware

There are two types of ceramic cookware, and knowing which kind you have is important for determining when it's time to replace it for safe use.

Solid ceramic is made from clay and kiln-fired, while ceramic-coated cookware typically has a metal base, such as aluminum, with a thin ceramic layer on top, says Smith. The coating can wear down over time, so it's important to monitor its condition and replace it if necessary for safety. Solid ceramic tends to last longer when handled with care.

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Using Damaged Ceramic Cookware

While it's generally safe to cook with ceramic cookware, keep an eye out for damage or chips. If ceramic cookware becomes chipped, cracked, or otherwise damaged, it can develop small crevices that are difficult to clean. Food particles and residue can become trapped in these crevices, allowing bacteria to grow and increasing the risk of cross-contamination and foodborne illness, says Baker.

Damage can also compromise the protective barrier of the ceramic surface and increase the risk of metals or chemicals leaching into food, says Simran Malhotra, founder of Wellness By LifestyleMD. If you notice damage to your ceramic cookware, experts recommend replacing it.

Ceramic Compared to Other Cookware

Stainless steel and cast iron cooking materials are among the safest and most durable options, says Malhotra. When in good condition, ceramic cookware is typically PFAS-free—meaning it does not contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are man-made chemicals linked to potential health risks, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). However, it's more vulnerable to wear over time.

"To maintain safety and the longevity of your ceramic cookware, I recommend avoiding high-heat cooking, handwashing when possible, and using gentle utensils (e.g., wood or silicon) to prevent scratching," says Malhotra.