Is there such a thing as a nonstick pan that doesn't use Teflon?

Teflon contains a synthetic chemical known as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) that has been linked to cancer and birth defects in laboratory animals. And while the formal risk assessment taken by the E.P.A. is not complete, studies do suggest that PFOA is highly likely to be carcinogenic to humans.

Dupont, the manufacturer of Teflon, has voluntarily pledged to phase out PFOA by 2015. If you are concerned about the risks of using Teflon-coated cookware, there are plenty of other nonstick options currently available. Look for pans labeled PFOA or PTFE-free: GreenPan and Scanpan are two popular brands on the market.