Question from LH
I have a question about enamel coated cast iron cookware (a la Le Creuset).
My husband and I adore our simple cast iron cookware, but have recently read that it is not advised for those with Hepatis C, which he has.
We both love to cook are always looking for safe and effective cookware.
I am intrigued by the new Mario Batali line of “Italian kitchen” cookware, a low priced knock off of Le Creuset. I would like to know more about the current safety of both Le Creuset, made in France and Mario Batali, made in China.
At one time the lead and cadmium levels in enamel coated ware was controversial. The info I have found says that has been corrected, but being skeptical about the USA standards and enforcement, I wonder if you have any other source of info or advice.
Also, I am wary of anything made in China. I would love to try this Mario Batali cookware but wonder if it is worth the health risk. Is Le Creuset?
Debra’s Answer
I don’t know the answer about lead and cadmium.
With regards to Le Cruset vs Mario Batali, as much as I love Mario Batali as a chef, I would go with the Le Creuset. Here’s why. Le Creuset is a long established French company, who makes a high quality product for the discriminating French, to whom cooking is paramount. Manufacturers in China just don’t have the same level of care. I’d get “the real thing.” And if anyone has corrected the heavy metal problem, it would be Le Creuset.
Debra, I know that it’s safe to use Le Creuset products for cooking but can a person be exposed to cadmium while washing a Le Creuset small, red frying pan? Would touching the red handle and pan outer surface, wet or dry, transfer cadmium to a person’s hands?
Probably not from the amount of time you are touching it. But if you are concerned, wear rubber gloves.
Hi Debra! I’ve just discovered your website and love all the info – thanks. As to Le Creuset, I wanted a sturdy toxic-free “stock pot” to make nutritious bone broths and didn’t trust the stainless I purchased for this. I now have a Le Creuset 8 qt. stock pot, purchased locally, but it says on the box “Made in Thailand.” Hmmm….so I thought this was an American company with some of it made in France, but maybe not? I thought enamel-procelain was safe. Am I wrong?
COMMENT FROM DEBRA:
I called Le Creuset. From what they told me, their porcelain enamel sounds fine to me. I don’t know where they are manufactured.