Why you should never use cooking spray on non-stick pans – expert issues warning

If you're wondering why all your pans claiming to be non-stick are getting ruined, you've come to the right place.

There are many reasons the non-stick coating on your favourite pan could start to flake off – but one of them is the type of oil you're using.

Many of us use cooking sprays for ease, and because it's a low calorie option. But did you know it could be ruining the non-stick coating on your pans?

Speaking to The Mirror, Elyse Durr, who works in product development at leading kitchenware manufacturer Blackmoor, said: "Depending on the pan you are using, and its 'non-stick' qualities, sprays such as those that claim to be 'non-stick cooking sprays' can harm your pan’s non-stick finish."

Why you shouldn't use cooking spray on non-stick pans

You shouldn't use cooking spray on non-stick pans (Blackmoor)

The reason why you shouldn't use cooking spray on non-stick pans is because "these types of sprays can contain an emulsifier called lecithin and whilst it’s harmless enough to use on most cookware, lecithin has the unfortunate ability to stick to a non-stick coating," explains Elyse.

She added: "It can leave a film that adheres to the non-stick surface which can be difficult to remove when washing, meaning a build-up over time will occur.

"Eventually, that coating can reduce a pan’s performance by degrading the cooking surface and food might begin to stick to it."

Elyse recommends reading the instructions carefully before choosing to use a cooking spray.

She added: "If cooks opted for any Blackmoor product, they wouldn’t have to use any oil or butter at all as our non-stick coating is of such quality. However, if they do want to add some oil for flavour, there are 100% olive oil sprays which can add a small amount of oil to the pan without adding too many calories and creating any damage."

Harsh detergents aren't good for non-stick pans (Blackmoor)

Some non-stick pans claim to be dishwasher safe, but the hot water and harsh detergents aren't normally good for the coating.

Elyse warns: "Finally, we’d also always advise to not put pans in the dishwasher, don’t cook at too high a heat and don’t use metal utensils which can cause scratching."

If you're using a non-stick pan, it's best to use oils such as olive oil, avocado oil, or any neutral-flavoured vegetable oil.

Or alternatively, if you have a good quality non-stick pan, it shouldn't need any cooking oil at all.