This class breaks down simple, effective swaps to help you avoid unnecessary chemicals and make healthier choices for you and your family. Get straightforward insights on how pans, utensils, cutting boards, detergents, and soaps—can introduce hidden toxins into your home.

Read about this class:

Healthy Kitchen Swaps: Reducing Toxins in Everyday Cooking

When it comes to health, many focus on food ingredients but overlook what they cook with and store food in. Kristy Morrell, a registered dietitian and Director of Nutrition at GoldCare, recently led a class on making healthier choices in the kitchen. This session marked the first in a multi-part series designed to help members swap out common household items for safer alternatives.

Cookware: Ditching Toxic Materials

One of the most significant changes you can make is choosing non-toxic cookware. Morrell strongly advised against using Teflon due to its harmful chemical coatings. Instead, she recommended:

• Cast Iron: Durable, oven-safe, and easy to maintain.
• Stainless Steel: A great alternative if used correctly (preheating properly and using the right oils).
• Carbon Steel: Another non-toxic option that avoids releasing harmful chemicals.
• Caraway Cookware: A popular choice, though it requires gentle handling to prevent scratches.

Kitchen Tools: Choosing the Right Utensils and Cutting Boards

Many people unknowingly use utensils and cutting boards that introduce chemicals into their meals. Morrell suggested replacing plastic and rubber utensils with:

• Wooden Utensils: Non-toxic and safe for cooking.
• Stainless Steel Utensils: A durable choice, but should be used with compatible cookware.
• Glass or Stainless Steel Cutting Boards: Avoid plastic boards, as they degrade over time and can release microplastics into food.
• High-Quality Birch or Teak Cutting Boards: These are more resistant to cuts and safer for long-term use. Cleaning with baking soda helps remove odors.

Food Storage: Glass Over Plastic

Plastic containers and bags are a major source of chemical exposure, especially when heated. Morrell recommended:

• Glass Storage Containers: Pyrex and Caraway offer durable, non-toxic options.
• Stainless Steel Options: Great for those who prefer lighter alternatives.
• Stasher Bags: Reusable, non-toxic, and ideal for replacing plastic Ziplocs.
• Avoiding Plastic in Heat: Pre-cooked rotisserie chickens and takeout containers often leach harmful chemicals when exposed to heat.

Dishwashing and Cleaning Products

Conventional dish soaps and cleaning products often contain synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals. Morrell shared safer alternatives:

• Dishwashing Alternatives: Avoid plastic-coated detergent pods. Opt for liquid or powder detergents from brands like Molly Suds.
• Natural Cleaning Solutions: Vinegar, baking soda, and fresh lemon work as effective cleaners.
• Brands to Consider: Koala Eco and Branch Basics offer non-toxic cleaning supplies.

Laundry Products: Safer Detergents and Dryer Alternatives

Laundry products can be a hidden source of harmful chemicals. Morrell emphasized avoiding synthetic fragrances, dyes, and bleach. Instead, she suggested:

• Natural Detergents: Brands like Molly Suds provide chemical-free options.
• Dryer Sheets Alternative: Wool dryer balls with essential oils offer a natural way to freshen clothes.

The Importance of Awareness and Small Changes

Morrell acknowledged that switching to non-toxic products can feel overwhelming, especially when investing in higher-quality alternatives. She encouraged taking small steps—starting with cookware or storage containers and gradually replacing household items.

This class was the first in a series, with future sessions planned to cover personal care products, including toothpaste, lotions, and hair care. A separate session on water filtration is also in the works.

By making informed choices about what we use daily, we can reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and create a healthier living environment. Stay tuned for the next class in this series!