Non-Toxic & Safe: Understanding Our Place Cookware's Ceramic Technology
Our Place Cookware uses proprietary Thermakind™ ceramic coating technology that is completely free from toxic chemicals like PFOA, PTFE, and PFAS. Learn why our sand-based ceramic coating is the safer, healthier choice for your family.
What is Thermakind™ Ceramic Coating?
Thermakind™ is Our Place's proprietary ceramic non-stick coating technology that uses an advanced Sol-Gel process to create a durable, non-toxic cooking surface. Unlike traditional non-stick coatings that rely on synthetic plastics and chemicals, Thermakind is derived from natural sand-based materials.
The Sol-Gel process transforms silicon-based compounds into a hard, glass-like ceramic layer that bonds directly to the aluminum core of our cookware. This creates a molecular bond that is incredibly durable and resistant to scratching, while providing exceptional non-stick performance without any toxic chemicals.
Our Thermakind ceramic coating is applied in multiple layers at high temperatures, creating a surface that is not only safe for your family but also performs beautifully across a wide range of cooking techniques. Whether you're searing proteins, sautéing vegetables, or making delicate sauces, Thermakind delivers consistent, reliable non-stick performance.
The result is a cooking surface that releases food effortlessly, cleans up easily, and stands up to daily use—all while being completely free from the harmful chemicals found in conventional non-stick cookware.
The "No" List: What's NOT in Our Cookware
Our Place Cookware is committed to transparency and safety. Here's a comprehensive list of harmful chemicals and substances you will NEVER find in our Thermakind ceramic coating or any Our Place products.
PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid)
A synthetic chemical linked to health concerns
PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene)
Commonly known as Teflon, releases toxic fumes when overheated
GenX
A newer PFAS chemical replacement that may pose similar risks
PFAS (Forever Chemicals)
Persistent synthetic chemicals that accumulate in the environment and body
Lead
A toxic heavy metal that can leach into food
Cadmium
A carcinogenic metal sometimes found in cheaper cookware
PFBS
Another PFAS compound used in some non-stick coatings
Toxic Fumes
No harmful emissions when cooking at normal temperatures
100% Free from Harmful Chemicals
Our Place Cookware contains absolutely zero toxic chemicals, heavy metals, or forever chemicals. Our Thermakind ceramic coating is made from natural, sand-based materials that are completely safe for you, your family, and the environment. You can cook with confidence knowing that nothing harmful will leach into your food, even at high temperatures.
Ceramic vs. Traditional Non-Stick: Understanding the Difference
Not all non-stick cookware is created equal. Here's what makes Our Place's ceramic technology fundamentally different—and safer—than traditional plastic-based non-stick coatings.
Ceramic Coating (Our Place)
- Sand-Based Natural MaterialsMade from silicon dioxide (silica), the same natural material found in sand and glass
- Zero Toxic ChemicalsCompletely free from PFOA, PTFE, PFAS, lead, and cadmium
- Safe at High TemperaturesNo toxic fumes released, even when accidentally overheated
- Environmentally FriendlySustainable production process with minimal environmental impact
- Excellent Non-Stick PerformanceSuperior food release and easy cleanup without compromising safety
- Durable & Long-LastingHard, glass-like surface resists scratching and wear with proper care
Traditional Non-Stick (PTFE/Teflon)
- Plastic-Based Synthetic CoatingMade from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a synthetic fluoropolymer plastic
- Contains Forever ChemicalsOften manufactured with PFAS compounds that persist in the environment and body
- Releases Toxic Fumes When OverheatedCan emit harmful gases above 500°F (260°C), causing polymer fume fever
- Environmental ConcernsManufacturing process creates persistent pollutants that don't break down in nature
- Potential Health RisksStudies link PFAS exposure to various health concerns including thyroid disease
- Coating DegradationCan chip, peel, or scratch more easily, potentially contaminating food
The Science Behind the Safety
The fundamental difference between ceramic and traditional non-stick coatings comes down to their base materials. Traditional non-stick cookware relies on PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), a synthetic plastic polymer that contains fluorine. While "PFOA-free" marketing has become common, many PTFE coatings still contain other PFAS compounds (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which are known as "forever chemicals" because they don't break down in the environment or human body.
Our Place's Thermakind ceramic coating takes a completely different approach. Instead of plastic polymers, we use a Sol-Gel process that converts silicon-based compounds (similar to sand and glass) into a hard, inorganic ceramic layer. This ceramic coating is inherently non-toxic because it's made from naturally occurring minerals rather than synthetic chemicals.
When PTFE coatings are heated above 500°F (260°C)—which can happen quickly on a stovetop—they begin to break down and release toxic fumes. These fumes can cause flu-like symptoms in humans and are even fatal to pet birds. Ceramic coatings like Thermakind are stable at much higher temperatures and do not release any harmful gases, making them inherently safer for everyday cooking.
Safety Certifications & Compliance Standards
Our Place Cookware undergoes rigorous third-party testing and meets or exceeds the most stringent safety standards in the United States and Europe. We are proud to be transparent about our certifications and compliance.
FDA Compliant
Meets U.S. Food and Drug Administration standards for food contact surfaces
EU Food Safety Standards
Complies with European Union's stringent regulations for cookware materials
California Prop 65
Does not contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer or reproductive harm
Third-Party Lab Tested
Independently verified for safety and non-toxicity by certified laboratories
Independently Verified, Transparently Tested
Every Our Place product undergoes comprehensive testing by accredited third-party laboratories to verify that our cookware meets all safety standards for food contact materials. These independent tests confirm that our Thermakind ceramic coating does not leach harmful substances into food, even under extreme cooking conditions.
We are committed to transparency and regularly update our safety documentation as new testing methodologies and standards emerge. Our goal is simple: to provide you with cookware that you can trust completely, backed by science and certified by independent authorities.
Why Non-Toxic Cookware Matters for Your Family
Your cookware is in direct contact with the food you eat every single day. When you cook, especially at high temperatures, any chemicals in your cookware's coating can potentially leach into your meals. For families, health-conscious individuals, and anyone who values long-term wellness, choosing non-toxic cookware isn't just a preference—it's a necessity.
Studies have shown that PFAS compounds (found in traditional non-stick coatings) can accumulate in the human body over time and have been linked to various health concerns. These "forever chemicals" are called that because they don't break down naturally, persisting in our bodies and the environment for decades or longer.
By choosing Our Place Cookware with Thermakind ceramic coating, you're making an active decision to protect your family from unnecessary chemical exposure. You're investing in cookware that performs beautifully while keeping your meals—and your loved ones—safe from harmful substances.
The peace of mind that comes from cooking with truly non-toxic cookware is invaluable. Whether you're making breakfast for your kids, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a dinner party, you can focus on creating delicious food without worrying about what might be leaching from your pan into your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Place Safety
Is Our Place Cookware truly PFOA-free?
Yes, absolutely. Our Place Cookware contains zero PFOA, zero PTFE, and zero PFAS of any kind. Our Thermakind ceramic coating is made from natural, sand-based materials and does not use any synthetic fluoropolymers or "forever chemicals" in its production.
What happens if I accidentally overheat my Always Pan?
Unlike traditional PTFE non-stick cookware, Our Place's ceramic coating will not release toxic fumes if accidentally overheated. The Thermakind coating is stable at high temperatures and safe for your family. However, we still recommend cooking at medium to medium-high heat for optimal performance and longevity.
How does ceramic coating compare to cast iron or stainless steel?
All three are considered safe, non-toxic options. Cast iron and stainless steel require more oil and maintenance, while Our Place's ceramic coating provides excellent non-stick performance without any chemicals. Ceramic is lighter, easier to clean, and doesn't require seasoning like cast iron.
Is Our Place safe for people with chemical sensitivities?
Yes. Our Thermakind ceramic coating is made from inorganic, natural materials without synthetic chemicals, making it an excellent choice for people with chemical sensitivities or those following a low-toxin lifestyle. Our cookware is also free from common allergens and irritants.
Does the ceramic coating wear off over time?
With proper care, Our Place's Thermakind ceramic coating is highly durable and long-lasting. While any non-stick surface will gradually wear with heavy use over years, our ceramic coating is bonded at the molecular level to the cookware base. Even as it naturally wears, it remains completely non-toxic and safe—unlike PTFE coatings which can chip and contaminate food.
Cook with Confidence, Cook with Our Place
Experience the perfect combination of safety, performance, and beautiful design. Our Place Cookware with Thermakind ceramic coating gives you non-stick convenience without any toxic chemicals—so you can focus on what matters most: creating delicious meals for the people you love.
Explore Our Non-Toxic Collection