These days, earthenware utensils are being sold widely in the market. From kadai to tawa, handi, and even jugs and bottles, people are using earthenware for cooking and dining, believing it to be good for health. However, before using these earthen pots, it is important to be aware of certain things to ensure that their use does not negatively impact your health.
Avoid Glaze on the Inside of the Pots
When buying earthenware, make sure that the inner surfaces of the utensils are not coated with any glaze. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration report, most glazes contain lead and cadmium, which are harmful to health. Therefore, when purchasing earthen pots, avoid shiny ones. These may look beautiful but can be harmful to your health.
Seasoning is a Must Before Use
Never make the mistake of using earthen pots immediately after bringing them home. They need to be seasoned first. To do this, soak the pots in water for at least one night, then dry them in the sun. After that, coat them with oil to prevent the food from being absorbed by the clay.
Avoid Using Soap for Cleaning
Earthenware has leaching properties. When soap is applied to these pots, it is absorbed into the material. Later, when cooking, the soap can leach into the food, which is harmful. Therefore, never wash earthen pots with soap.
Pay Attention to the Pot’s Durability
When buying earthenware, ensure that the pots are thick and heavy. This will reduce the risk of the pots breaking during cooking and will help the food cook evenly without burning. A weaker pot is more likely to break under heat.
Check the Strength of the Pots
Always check the base of the earthen pots by tapping it. A good and strong base will produce a metallic sound, indicating that the structure inside the pot is strong enough for cooking.
How to Clean Earthenware Properly
As mentioned, never clean earthen pots with soap. Instead, use hot water and sprinkle baking soda to clean them. This prevents the pots from absorbing any harmful chemicals.
By following these guidelines, you can safely enjoy cooking with earthenware, ensuring that your health remains a priority.