Frying pans have a shelf life too!

Amidst a collection of pots and pans in your kitchen, there’s likely one favorite frying pan you reach for time and again—it’s versatile, allowing you to cook everything from meat and seafood to pancakes. However, even the trusty frying pan has a limited lifespan. Here’s how to determine when it’s time to replace your go-to frying pan.

Read more:Say Goodbye to Annoying Flies with This Kitchen Staple: Ginger

Assess the Non-Stick Coating Despite the perception of durability, your frying pan isn’t immortal, especially if it features a non-stick coating that could pose health risks over time. Regularly inspect the non-stick coating for signs of wear and tear. Damages and cracks may occur from sharp objects like knives or forks, or they could result from dishwasher usage. Even a minor crack in the non-stick coating can introduce plastic particles into your food. Jennifer Snyder, a certified professional organizer at Neat as a Pin, cautions, “The coating starts to flake off and may work its way into your food—and that’s not safe.” So, it’s wise to replace your aging frying pan to ensure food safety.

Lifespan Considerations If your frying pan displays any damage, it’s best to dispose of it. But even if your pan appears undamaged, it’s advisable to replace it after five years of use. If you’re seeking a longer-lasting alternative, consider investing in a cast-iron skillet. These have a significantly longer lifespan than conventional frying pans with non-stick coatings. Realtor notes that a cast-iron pan can last for generations. While you’ll need to use a bit more oil to prevent food from sticking, as there’s no non-stick coating, you won’t have to worry about plastic particles contaminating your meals