If you decide to try out silicone cookware, here are some buying tips to help you.
We have established that rubber silicone has the qualities needed for quality kitchen utensils and bakeware.
However,this begs some questions - is silicone safe or toxic?
Does silicone contain BPA?
Is silicone better than plastic?
If you are buying silicone utensils and bakeware, you will want to find a product that is at least food grade.
The higher the quality, the better.
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical that is often used in the manufacture of plastic containers and bottles.
It has been found to have harmful effects on the human body because it interferes with our hormones and
causes brain and behavioral problems.
It can also cause cancer, heart disease, ADHD, obesity and diabetes.
Fortunately, pure silicone does not contain BPA; however, poor quality silicone bakeware and utensils with
fillers may contain BPA.
Although silicones are not biodegradable, there are recycling facilities that can process silicone waste and
convert it into new products.
Plastics are also harmful to humans because they contain Bisphenol A, a chemical that mimics our hormones
and causes endocrine disruption.
Because plastic manufacturers have faced strong consumer opposition over BPA, many companies now produce
BPA-free plastics, replacing the chemical with bisphenol S (BPS).
However, studies have shown that BPS is just as toxic as BPA.
Silicone is a better choice because it is non-toxic and not a hazardous waste.
When buying a baking pan, you need to check the safe temperature range of the product.
Otherwise, you may end up melting your new silicone baking pan.
Silicones are non-reactive and are considered safe at temperatures up to 572°F.
If you are buying a silicone baking pan, buy one with a support ring to ensure stability.
Buy silicone molds that do not have narrow spaces where food can get stuck, making it difficult to clean.
Buy only FDA-approved silicone utensils and bakeware to ensure they are non-toxic.
They should also have a food-grade rating.
Can silicone bakeware be used for steaming?
Pure silicone is inert and will not leach toxic chemicals when cooked.
Since food-grade silicone is safe at temperatures up to 572˚F, it can be used for steaming and steam baking.
The only thing you shouldn't do is put your silicone mold over an open flame where it can melt.
To help you get started, here is a simple recipe for steamed eggs that you can try to make a healthy breakfast with.
If you are interested in using silicone molds as part of your business approach and are further committed
to making your business a success, please feel free to contact us at Infull’s silicone bakeware series.