Is Caraway Non-Toxic? A Comprehensive Review Of Caraway Cookware

Ever wondered if the pans you cook with every day could be affecting your health? When my husband and I started making small changes toward a healthier home, we quickly realized how much the everyday products we use can influence our well-being. We’ve made changes in our cleaning supplies, food storage containers, and yes, even our cookware, including baking sheets. One of the most eye-opening shifts was swapping out our traditional non-stick Teflon coated loaf pans and fry pans for non-toxic alternatives. It wasn’t just about cooking; it was about protecting our family’s health and embracing a more mindful lifestyle.

I know that Caraway cookware sets are present in many kitchens—which is understandable. After all, the brand has been making waves for its sleek, modern design and bold claims of being non-toxic. With so many health-conscious people raving about it, I had to dig deeper. In this post, you will learn enough to make an informed decision as to whether Caraway pots and pans live up to the hype, what they’re actually made of, their pros and cons, and whether they are worth buying.

Is Caraway Non-Toxic?

Marketed as non-toxic, Caraway cookware boasts a ceramic-coated surface free from harmful chemicals like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), as well as heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and mercury. The Caraway Home website emphasizes that, compared to traditional non-stick cookware which is often Teflon coated and thus, contains these potentially harmful substances, their products are designed to be safer alternatives.

However, it’s important to note that there exist concerns about the actual safety of ceramic-coated cookware. Thus, ceramic coatings use nanoparticles for their ability to create slick, easy-to-clean surfaces. However, concerns are growing about their potential health risks, especially with daily use. Engineered nanomaterials like titanium dioxide can migrate into food—particularly when exposed to high heat, acidic ingredients, or scratches. Studies in animals have shown that these particles can cross intestinal barriers, accumulate in organs, and even cause precancerous lesions and immune disruption (source, source, and source).

Because the long-term effects on human health remain largely unknown and nanotechnology use  in cookware is poorly regulated, I urge caution and recommend avoiding cookware that uses unlisted or unspecified nanoparticle-based coatings.

Typically, manufacturers do not disclose these materials, which leads to questions about the transparency and safety of such products. (Learn more about that in my GreenPan Review.)

Let’s see if Caraway Home is transparent enough for you to make an informed decision.

What Is A Caraway Pan?

To begin with, Caraway is a cookware brand that offers a range of products designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind. The company carries ceramic non-stick cookware and enameled cast iron cookware. They also carry stainless steel cookware, bakeware sets, loaf pans, and baking sheets as well as food storage containers. (Learn about Non-Toxic Baking Sheets here.)

First, Caraway pots and pans with a ceramic-coated surface are oven-safe up to 550°F and are available in various colors and shapes to suit different kitchen styles. The oblong handle repeats the shape of the Caraway flower seed, which is the inspiration behind the company’s name. The non-stick line showcases both ceramic coated cookware sets and individual pieces, such as a fry pan, sauce pan, sauté pan, and Dutch oven.

Second, Caraway enameled cast iron cookware features a three-layer enamel coating for heat retention and even cooking without the need for seasoning. Reportedly, the surface is naturally slick and scratch-resistant, making it easy to clean after use. The cookware is oven safe up to 500°F and is suitable for all stovetops—including induction, gas, and electric.

Third, Caraway 18/10 stainless steel cookware set consists of 5 plies for durability and even heat distribution. The set pieces are oven-safe up to 550°F, broiler-safe up to 465°F, and compatible with any stovetop.

The brand points out that their products are free from harmful chemicals like PFAS, PTFE, PFOA, lead, cadmium, and mercury and are designed to provide a safer cooking experience.

Are Caraway Pans Non-Toxic?

As always, I reached out to Caraway Home requesting additional information about the materials used in their coatings. Here is the answer I got in June 2025:

To reiterate, Caraway’s non-stick ceramic coating results from a sol-gel process, using undisclosed binders for non-stick performance. (Learn more about the sol-gel process in my blog post Is Ceramic Coating Safe?.)

Reportedly, the coating is free of lead, cadmium, PTFE, PFOA, and PFAS. As for nanoparticles, while present during production, allegedly, they are fully bonded into a non-porous layer after curing and are not released during use. And the enameled cast iron cookware features a glass-based enamel fused to cast iron, using natural minerals and oxides, and is also third-party tested for safety and Prop 65 compliance.

First of all, I appreciate the company’s commitment to excluding harmful substances like PTFE, PFOA, and certain heavy metals from their cookware as well as the fact that they provided me with third-party lab reports:

• California Prop 65 leaching tests for heavy metals
• LFGB test report for PFOA, PFOS, and extractable metals
• FDA leaching tests for lead and cadmium
• NSL Analytical PTFE detection test.

However, the test reports are only reassuring to a point because the full list of ingredients in their ceramic coating remains undisclosed. Without knowing the exact materials—especially the types of binders, reinforcing agents, and additives—it’s difficult to assess what other substances might be present or to request targeted safety tests beyond the standard ones.

Additionally, they use nanoparticles during production. Even though they are claimed to be fully bonded and inert after curing, given the ongoing research around nanomaterials and their potential health impacts, at this point—I am not comfortable about calling Caraway cookware “non-toxic.”

What Are Caraway Pans Made Of?

Similar to HexClad non-stick cookware, Caraway cookware uses the following materials:

• Aluminum Core: Provides lightweight durability and efficient heat distribution.
• Stainless Steel Base: Ensures durability and compatibility with induction cooktops and adds strength.
• Ceramic Coating: A mineral-based surface reportedly free from PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium.
• Glass Lids: Allow for easy monitoring of cooking progress.

Next, Caraway stainless steel cookware also has an aluminum core surrounded by 5-ply 18/10 stainless steel. This design ensures quick and even heating while providing a durable, non-corrosive, and non-toxic cooking surface.

Finally, the enameled cast iron cookware features a 3-layer glass-based enamel coating, constructed by fusing powdered glass to the cast iron at high temperatures. The enamel coating creates a naturally slick surface that doesn’t require seasoning.

What Are the Pros And Cons Of Caraway Cookware?

Pros Of Non-Stick Caraway Cookware

• Non-Stick Coating: Helps cook food that easily slides off the pan.
• Stylish Design: Available in various colors to match different kitchen aesthetics.
• Even Heat Distribution: Ensures consistent cooking results.
• Easy to Clean: The ceramic surface allows for effortless cleaning.
• Lightweight Construction: Makes handling and cooking more comfortable.

Cons Of Non-Stick Caraway Cookware

• Potential Safety Concerns: Lack of ingredient transparency raises questions about the safety of the ceramic coating.
• Not Dishwasher Safe: The company recommends hand washing to prolong the life of the cookware.
• Durability Issues: Some users have reported that the ceramic coating wears off over time.
• Not Economical: If the non-stick coating wears off over time, you will end up having to buy another pan in a few years.

Conclusion: Are Caraway Pots And Pans Worth It?

While Caraway Stainless Steel And Cast Iron Cookware Is A Worthy Choice, I Wouldn’t Say The Same About Their Ceramic Coated Cookware.

To sum up, with their ceramic coated cookware, Caraway Home offers a stylish and seemingly non-toxic alternative to traditional non-stick pans. However, the lack of ingredient transparency and potential safety concerns warrant careful consideration. Besides, compared to traditional cast iron and stainless steel cookware that can last forever, cookware with non-stick coating that wears off over time is not very economical. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and conduct thorough research before making a purchase. Prioritizing your family’s health and safety should be the guiding factor in choosing cookware.

To learn about my investigation into other non-stick cookware brands, like OZERI, SCANPAN, ZWILLING, SWISS DIAMOND, BLUE DIAMOND, GREENPAN, GREENLIFE, HEXCLAD, OUR PLACE and others, opt to receive my free email on non-stick cookware.

Personally, I use the following cookware:

• 360 Stainless Steel Cookware
• Field and Stargazer Cast Iron
• Duralex Glassware
• Pyrex Glassware

For more options, including carbon steel and glassware, visit my Amazon storefront.

Take a look at the I Read Labels For You blog for practical advice on reducing everyday toxin exposure. You’ll find a curated shop and easy-to-read e-books designed to help you make informed, healthier decisions. Want more support? Choose to receive free email updates to get insights, tips, and occasional special offers delivered directly to your inbox.