Non-stick most risky, Earthen pots safest: Check what India’s nutrition institute recommends for different types of cookware

Many households find non-stick pans convenient and easy to use, especially for quick cooking with less oil. But the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), in its dietary guidelines, has warned about the health risks of using non-stick cookware at high temperatures and recommended earthen pots as a safer and more sustainable alternative. Last year, the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) issued its updated Dietary Guidelines for Indians, the recommendation to use earthen cookware remains relevant in Indian kitchens. The guidelines stressed the importance of safer and more traditional cooking methods, especially in the face of rising health issues linked to food habits and preparation techniques.

Earthen pots safest cooking option

Among the key recommendations, NIN called earthen pots the safest cookware, citing their ability to retain nutrients and require less oil. In the guidelines, NIN stated, "Earthen pots are the safest cookware which is eco-friendly, requires less oil for food preparation, and preserves nutrition of food."

In contrast, non-stick pans were flagged as a potential risk if used at high temperatures. The guidelines advised discarding non-stick cookware once the surface coating is damaged or worn.


Other cookware was also assessed:

• Metal vessels: Using aluminum, iron, or unlined brass or copper for storing acidic foods such as chutneys or sambar is unsafe.
  
  
• Stainless steel: Considered generally safe and stable.
  
  
• Non-stick pans: Can release harmful substances when heated above 170°C.
  
  
• Granite cookware: Safe unless coated with Teflon; if coated, medium-high heat use is recommended.
  
  

Lifestyle diseases linked to food preparation practices

As more families rely on quick and easy cooking methods, health experts say cookware choices may influence long-term health outcomes. The 2024 guidelines urged people to return to safer cooking practices and reconsider common utensils used daily.

NIN also recommended limiting sugar intake to 20–25 grams a day—about a teaspoon—and cutting back on oil consumption. It encouraged using air-frying and granite-coated cookware as healthier alternatives to deep frying.