Researchers at the University of Newcastle in Australia have revealed that a tiny scratch on a non-stick pan can release about 9,100 microplastic particles. Even more alarming, a broken coating can release up to 2.3 million microplastics and nanoplastic particles in our food and cooking environments.

The study, published in the journal Science of The Total Environment, highlights the need to be cautious with the use and maintenance of non-stick cookware.

Researchers suggest opting for more durable and less scratch-prone kitchenware, such as stainless steel or cast iron, and avoiding the use of metal utensils that can damage non-stick surfaces.