Although glass pots and pans are not as common as their metal counterparts in our kitchen cupboards, they’re still quite functional. For example, they keep food warm for a good amount of time and are perfect for households that serve meals at different times. They also tend to be free of the toxic chemicals that are found in many modern cookware such as PFOA and PTFE. Additionally, they don’t usually weigh much and can be easily handled.
Some glass bakeware is made from borosilicate glass which is put through an annealing process to ensure durability and superior resistance to thermal shock. This type of glass is commonly used in scientific lab equipment and some high-quality glass cookware brands such as Pyrex, Borolux, and International Cookware use this material for their products. Moreover, there are even more durable options such as the Simax glassware line which has been around for over 200 years and can withstand temperatures from -40°F to 570°F.
Another advantage of glass cookware is that it doesn’t deteriorate over time like some other materials. If it’s properly cared for, it can remain in good condition for decades. Similarly, it’s not as reactive as some other cookware and can safely store all types of foods including acidic ones.
However, it’s important to remember that glass cookware is not ideal for hot or high-heat cooking since it doesn’t distribute heat well. As such, it’s not a good idea to take a glass pan straight from the fridge and into a preheated oven, as this can cause the pan to crack. It is a great option for baking though, as it can go directly from the freezer to the oven without any issues.
One of the main reasons glass pots and pans are not as commonly found in our kitchen is because they’re generally more expensive than their metallic counterparts. This is because they’re not as widely used and therefore the manufacturing costs are higher. Furthermore, they aren’t as robust and can break much more easily than metal cookware if not handled carefully.
If you’re looking for glass cookware that is a little more affordable, you should consider ceramic cookware instead. While it’s not as versatile as glass, it is often more durable and comes with a variety of benefits such as non-stick capabilities. In addition, unlike glass, ceramic doesn’t contain any toxins so it’s a safer and healthier choice for your kitchen.