Is Copper Cookware Safe for Everyday Use? Here's What Experts Say

It's no secret that copper cookware is beautiful to look at. And for chefs and home cooks alike, it’s a popular choice due to its excellent temperature control and even heat distribution. But is it safe to use all the time in your kitchen? Well, it depends.

We chatted with experts who shared the benefits—and the cautionary tales—of cooking with copper. Here’s what we learned.

What Makes Copper Cookware Special

Besides its collectible-worthy appearance (just ask Martha!), Derek Finocchiaro, All-Clad’s resident chef, explains that copper is renowned for its responsiveness. “It heats and cools very quickly, offering unparalleled temperature control while cooking,” Finocchiaro says. “Think of copper as a great listener in a conversation—you adjust the flame, and the pan listens immediately.”

For professional chefs (especially pastry chefs or sauciers) who rely on uniform heating for tasks like melting chocolate or making finicky sauces, copper cookware is a favorite. “Its superior heat conductivity ensures even heating and reduces hot spots,” Finocchiaro adds. “Which is invaluable when working with sugar or other precise recipes.”

Daljit Singh, owner and culinary director of Kahani Punjabi Restaurant & Bar, also appreciates the use of copper cookware in his restaurant. “Copper is excellent for heat conductivity,” explains Daljit Singh. “In our kitchen, it ensures precise control for tempering spices—briefly cooking them in very hot oil to release and enhance their flavors. Compared to cast iron or stainless steel, it offers faster heat response and is perfect for slow-simmered dishes like our lamb vindaloo.”

Safety and Lining Matter

All copper cookware isn’t made equal, so it’s important to choose the right pieces. Some copper cookware is lined with stainless steel, explains Singh. “At Kahani, we use copper handi cooking pots for one of our signature dishes inspired by our mom, billo’s biryani. This type of pot is perfect for cooking rice dishes with meat and vegetables.”

“Unlined copper products are specialist tools, ideal for pastry tasks such as working with sugar, chocolate, or even egg whites—but they are not for everyday use,” Finocchiaro says. “Avoid using copper when cooking with acidic ingredients like tomatoes, citrus, or vinegars, as these can react with the copper and potentially produce toxic compounds in your food.”

If you’re a home cook who wants to use copper cookware, choosing a lined or encased option is your best bet. “To make it practical for everyday use, choose a high-quality, reputable brand like All-Clad, which encases the copper material in stainless steel,” Finocchiaro recommends. “This design gives you all the benefits of copper’s responsiveness and even heating—without the maintenance concerns.”

Choosing Safe Copper Cookware

If you’re shopping for copper cookware, Singh says to pay attention to quality and construction. “Choose thick copper cookware with a durable stainless steel lining,” he says. “It ensures safety and even heat distribution—ideal for any home cook seeking precise temperature control.”

And while some still question whether copper is safe, Singh explains that this long-trusted material has stood the test of time for a reason. “Many mistakenly believe copper cookware is unsafe,” he says. “In reality, when properly lined, it’s safe and has been trusted for generations. In Punjab, where our family is from, copperware has been used for traditional dishes like dal tadka, a lentil dish with tempered spices, because it offers unmatched heat control.”

Properly Caring for Cooper Cookware

Like any other pot or pan, caring for your cookware properly will extend its life (and maintain its look), plus ensure safety and peak performance. “The best way to clean copper cookware is to hand wash with mild soap and a soft sponge,” Finocchiaro says. “Avoid abrasive cleaners—they can scratch or dull the surface. To restore shine, use a copper polish, though a little patina tells the story of the pan and adds character.”