Hong Kong’s Consumer Council (CC) has released a critical report on the safety and performance of seven popular cast iron cooking pots, revealing that several models exceeded international limits for potentially toxic metal release, including known carcinogens. This comprehensive assessment, detailed in the latest issue of Choice magazine (Issue 541), tested the cookware’s safety, cooking efficiency, heat retention, and overall performance, aiming to guide consumers in selecting the best value for their kitchens while highlighting significant health risks found in some highly-regarded brands.
Safety Failure: Multiple Models Exceed Metal Release Limits
Cast iron pots have surged in popularity due to their versatility—suitable for induction, open flame, and oven use for slow cooking, stewing, and baking. However, the CC’s safety investigation uncovered concerning levels of metal migration from four of the tested products into food simulants. The samples included five enamel-coated pots and two non-enamel pots.
The testing revealed several disturbing breaches of safety standards:
- Vermicular (Made in Japan) exceeded limits for cobalt by 0.6 times and lithium by 1.3 times.
- Bruno (Made in China) showed significant overages, failing limits for aluminum by 0.4 times, arsenic by a staggering 16 times, cadmium by 5.4 times, and lithium by 11.1 times.
- The Japanese-made Yanagi Sori pot exceeded the iron release limit by 1.4 times.
- Lodge registered excess levels of chromium (0.7 times), iron (54 times), manganese (0.9 times), and vanadium (1 time).
The Consumer Council emphasized the severe health implications of these findings. Arsenic, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium compounds are classified as human carcinogens. Cobalt is also listed as a potential human carcinogen. Excessive intake of lithium can lead to minor gastrointestinal distress, tremors, and thyroid dysfunction, and is associated with unfavorable fetal development.
Performance Review: High Marks for Heat Dynamics and Retention
Beyond the critical safety evaluation, the testing measured several key performance indicators (KPIs) crucial for quality cooking.
In terms of heat transfer speed, all seven samples achieved satisfactory ratings, ranging from 3.5 to 4 stars, with three specific models demonstrating marginally superior speed (4 stars).
Heat uniformity, which greatly affects overall cooking quality, was a standout feature for some models. The Lagostina cast iron pot notably received a 4.5-star rating for its even heat distribution, alongside two other models scoring above 4 stars.
Heat retention is a primary benefit of cast iron, allowing for reduced energy use and prolonged simmering. This characteristic was strong across the board, with five of the seven pots earning a high 4.5-star rating in this category.
For cooking performance, tested through non-stick frying of eggs (a challenging task for cast iron), the Yanagi Sori pot achieved a perfect 5-star rating, while one other model scored 4.5 stars.
Overall Value: Three Models Deliver High Quality and Safety
After comprehensive scoring across safety, performance, energy efficiency, and durability, only three models achieved the highest overall rating of 4.5 stars, indicating the best combination of quality and safety for consumers. The remaining pots generally scored between 2 and 3 stars due to various performance or, critically, safety shortfalls.
The Consumer Council stressed that while cast iron is a versatile and durable cooking tool, consumers must prioritize safety when purchasing. High-performing cookware that fails basic safety standards poses an unacceptable risk.
Actionable Advice for Consumers
The Consumer Council also provided crucial tips for maintaining cast iron cookware to ensure longevity and safety:
- Seasoning: Non-enameled pots should be properly seasoned with oil after cleaning to create a protective, non-stick layer and prevent rust.
- Cleaning: Avoid harsh abrasive cleaners or steel wool, which can damage seasoning or enamel coatings. Use warm, soapy water and a gentle brush.
- Storage: Ensure the pot is thoroughly dry before storing to prevent rusting, especially in Hong Kong’s humid climate.
- Safety Check: Consumers are advised to check the latest CC report for specific model details and adhere to the manufacturer’s maximum temperature and usage instructions to prevent metal leaching and damage.
Owners of the four models found to release excessive heavy metals are urged to contact the retailers or manufacturers for clarification regarding the test results and potential health risks. This report serves as a vital call for manufacturers to tighten quality control, especially concerning materials used in production that may come into contact with food.