Is aluminized steel safe in cookware?

Aluminized steel is a metal alloy that is composed of steel with a coating of aluminum. It is often used in cookware due to its durability and resistance to corrosion. The safety of aluminized steel cookware has been extensively studied, and it is generally considered to be safe for use in the preparation and consumption of food.

Here are some of the key safety considerations regarding aluminized steel cookware:

Aluminum toxicity: Aluminum is a metal that can be toxic in high doses, but the amount of aluminum that can leach from aluminized steel cookware into food is generally considered to be safe. The World Health Organization (WHO) has set a provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) for aluminum of 2 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. This means that a 150-pound person could safely consume up to 10 milligrams of aluminum per week. The amount of aluminum that leaches from aluminized steel cookware is typically well below this limit, even after repeated use.

Nickel toxicity: Some aluminized steel cookware may contain trace amounts of nickel, which can be toxic in high doses. However, the amount of nickel that leaches from aluminized steel cookware into food is generally considered to be safe. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has set a tolerable daily intake (TDI) for nickel of 2.5 micrograms per kilogram of body weight. This means that a 150-pound person could safely consume up to 375 micrograms of nickel per day. The amount of nickel that leaches from aluminized steel cookware is typically well below this limit, even after repeated use.

Overall safety: Based on the scientific evidence available, aluminized steel cookware is generally considered to be safe for use in the preparation and consumption of food. However, it is important to note that some individuals may have sensitivities or allergies to aluminum or nickel, and may therefore choose to avoid using aluminized steel cookware.