Question from kristen
Are you familiar with Phenol-formaldehyde used in cookware products? Specifically a metal tea kettle, where the lid and handle are made of this material. I know formaldehyde is toxic, but in this application do you think it is releasing anything or could leach out in any way? Thank you for your time.
Debra’s Answer
Yes I am familiar with this. It’s been called “the first real plastic”. It is formed from an elimination reaction of phenol with formaldehyde. During the manufacturing process, the phenol and formaldehyde react to make a new material that is not toxic. It has been used to make many consumer products and is still used today. It’s not releasing anything and not leaching. You can use it without concern.
I can smell and do react to phenol formaldehyde.