Is Silicone Cookware Safe?
Relative to other cooking materials, silicone is comparatively new on the market. But, it is already very popular among those who enjoy hassle free baking. Though it is often classified as cookware, silicone is not stove top safe. However, silicone is oven, microwave, refrigerator, and freezer safe. Read on for more information about the advantages and disadvantages of silicone bake ware.
Uses or Silicone Cookware
Silicone is made from bonded oxygen and silicone (which creates a synthetic rubber), and it is one of the most versatile bake ware materials available. Silicone can be used in the oven and microwave, and food can be stored in it in either the refrigerator or the freezer. It is also a nonstick and nonporous material, so nothing will leech into the food.
Also read: Best Non Stick Cookware Set
Silicone is excellent at heat distribution, so it is the perfect choice for baking bread and cakes, as well as other dense foods that require thorough distribution of heat. Unlike when using other types of bake ware, the nonstick surface of silicone means that no oil or grease is required prior to baking.
The lightweight nature of silicone is a benefit when it comes to handling it. However, when using the pans in the oven, make sure to reinforce the bottom by placing the bake ware onto a cookie sheet. It will provide the pan with stability.
Even though the material is markedly different than glass or metal pans, items baked in silicone pans do not require different heat settings. Follow the recipe’s instructions related to oven temperatures just as you would when using traditional bake ware.
Silicone is so versatile that it can also be used for cooking tasks other than baking. Gelatin and ice cubes, as well as just about any other food that requires a mold, can be made in silicone cookware.
Cost of Silicone Cookware
When you purchase silicone bake ware, be sure that what you are buying is composed of 100% silicone, as there are mixed-composition silicone pans that are not as reliable or durable. Bake ware made with 100% silicone is categorized as being moderately priced, though for its functionality, the price is well worth it. A silicone loaf pan will range in price from $15 – $60, depending on the brand and exact size. Of course, it is easy to find cheaper silicone bake ware, but often it is not comprised of 100% silicone. So, do your research before you buy any bake ware product containing silicone to ensure that it isn’t mixed with any other material.
Ideal Consumers for Silicone Cookware
Silicone is perfect for the home cook who specializes in baked goods, and prefers to use the oven instead the stovetop. Cooks who are concerned about toxins should consider silicone as well. Its nonporous and nonstick surface makes it nonabsorbent, which means that it is more hygienic than other bake ware materials because bacteria won’t penetrate the silicone.
It is so lightweight that silicone is also ideal for people who have a difficult time handling heavy objects. A benefit for those who have difficulty using their hands is in the nonstick feature of silicone bake ware. A slight flick of the wrist is literally all that is required to release the baked goods, though it is recommended that you allow the food to cool and set before removing it from the pan.
Silicone is a good choice for active families as well. Since it can go from the refrigerator to the freezer to the oven to the microwave, families who prepare foods in advance, or eat at different times, can get a lot of miles out of silicone bake ware.
The versatility and lightweight feel of silicone also makes it great for use in an RV. Remember not to use it on the stovetop, but a family that owns an RV with an oven, a microwave, a refrigerator, and a freezer, can take along silicone bake ware knowing that it will be used often and won’t be needlessly taking up the RV’s limited kitchen space.
Durability of Silicone Cookware
When used and cared for properly, silicone will last years. Of course, the unique composition of silicone calls for a couple of precautions. Avoid using sharp objects that can cut into the surface or create holes. Also, keep your silicone bake ware away from open flames.
Cleaning Silicone Cookware
Silicone bake ware is dishwasher safe. However, its nonstick and nonporous surface renders it so easy to clean that you may just prefer to wash your silicone bake ware by hand. Additionally, if cleaned in the dishwasher too often, the powerful jets can potentially wear down the surface of the silicone over time.
Even though silicone bake ware is a relatively new addition to the kitchen, it has already proven to be more versatile than many other types of bake ware. If you are searching for multi functional bake ware that is easy to handle, serves a variety of purposes, and is durable and easy to clean, consider adding silicone bake ware to your kitchen.