Is it safe to use non-stick muffin tins for baking?
No. Non-stick muffin tins are often coated with PFAS, a class of chemicals linked to serious health risks including cancer and reproductive issues.
What's actually in it
Non-stick muffin tins rely on coatings made from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These are often called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down in the environment or your body. Manufacturers use these chemicals to create a slick surface that prevents food from sticking, but they can migrate into your baked goods during the heating process.
Recent research published in Chemosphere highlights that these chemicals are frequently found in consumer products. They aren't just sitting on the surface of your pan. They are part of a chemical family that is actively being studied for its ability to disrupt human health.
What the research says
The science is clear: PFAS exposure is linked to significant health problems. A 2026 study in Environ Sci Technol conducted a systematic review of animal and human data and found a connection between PFAS exposure and liver cancer.
The impact on your body goes beyond cancer risk. A 2026 study in Toxicol Lett analyzed data from the United States and found that PFAS exposure is associated with changes in long-term health for women. This peer-reviewed research confirms that these chemicals are not inert. When you bake with non-stick tins, you are introducing these substances into your kitchen and your food.
The research at a glance
What to use instead
Browse our vetted, non-toxic alternatives. Every product is third-party certified.
Shop Non-Toxic Kitchen