(NewsNation) – Toxic fumes from non-wood frying pans have caused a record number of Americans to contract the “Teflon flu.”
Known as polymer fume fever, 267 suspected cases have been reported to US poison centers since 2000.
Symptoms may include fever, fatigue, headache, nausea, or cough. The polymer smoke fever nickname derives from non-stick pans, including Teflon, made from potatetrafluoroethylene.
It is known as the “forever chemical” in reference to its ability to remain in the environment for a long time.
Many studies have shown that if nonstick pans are kept below 500 degrees Fahrenheit, the coating will not shrink or emit harmful fumes.
“It burns and releases a complex of oxidized, fluorinated compounds.” Zach HudsonAssociate Professor of Chemistry at the University of British Columbia b The Washington Post Cook a non-stick pan on high heat.
This is why they tell you, “Don’t heat a Teflon pan to high heat.”
Chemours, which owns Teflon, issued a statement to the Post in an attempt to dispel concerns.
“Several studies have shown that it does not bioaccumulate and is rapidly eliminated from the body if accidentally exposed.