Save Your Money: Consumer Reports' Lowest-Rated Nonstick Cookware Set Comes From This Big Brand

Using the proper tools is essential in any culinary endeavor, which is why nonstick pans are so valuable. They're not up for every kitchen task — you wouldn't want to brown ground beef in one, for example. Yet if you're cooking an omelet or a delicate piece of fish, a quality nonstick pan is worth its weight in gold. But "quality" is the key word here, and according to Consumer Reports, customers should avoid this set of cookware from none other than Food Network. 

The consumer advocacy agency tested dozens of name-brand nonstick cookware sets and found that Food Network's 10-piece textured titanium set wasn't up to snuff. In fairness, they did receive favorable marks in some categories. When it came to speed of heating, cooking evenness, simmering sauces, and nonstick food release, Food Network's cookware secured a perfect five out of five score.  

However, Food Network's pans took a hit in the categories of handle temperature and handle sturdiness, earning a four and three in those categories, respectively. Yet, where it truly failed to impress the testers was arguably the most important bar for nonstick cookware — the durability of the coating. It was the only set to score a measly one out of five in that category, and of more than 50 sets tested, only one other brand scored below a three. It's doubtful the testers committed the nonstick pan mistake of using metal utensils to scrape the cookware, so the fact that they found the main feature was poor quality is a major concern.

Most cookware sets Consumer Reports tested that scored three or less in nonstick durability ended up with bottom-tier overall ratings. It may seem extreme to judge pans so harshly based on one feature, but that's a big deal. It doesn't help that Food Network's nonstick cookware is not listed as made without PTFE, more commonly known as Teflon. One concern about PTFE is that when bits of the coating flake off, people may be ingesting microplastics. There is also the worry that when the material gets too hot, it can release toxic fumes. While research regarding PTFE in nonstick coatings is still ongoing, there is some evidence indicating it could be harmful.

Putting aside fears about the questionable forever chemical for a moment, let's focus on the elephant in the room. No one expects a nonstick pan to last indefinitely, but when you shell out hard-earned dough for a complete set, and the main feature starts fading quickly, it stings. You can and should season nonstick pans periodically to prolong their lifespan, but if they start deteriorating right after you start cooking with them, they're basically unusable.

The abysmal overall score of 43 for Food Network's pans contrasts with Consumer Reports' highest-rated nonstick cookware set from Figment, which earned a 94 and received a four for nonstick durability. Both sets are priced on average at $180, and customers even get two additional pans with Figment. Based on CR's findings, Food Network should stick to entertaining culinary programs and leave manufacturing nonstick pans to companies more knowledgeable about the ins and outs of their construction.