You might think your cookware and kitchen containers are harmless, but according to Dr. Steven Gundry, many common items in your kitchen could be quietly damaging your health. From non-stick pans to plastic storage containers, these everyday tools may be leaching harmful chemicals into your food — and your body. Here’s what you need to know and what you should consider replacing today.

What’s Hiding in Your Kitchen? Endocrine Disruptors Explained

Dr. Gundry calls them “deadly disruptors.” These are chemicals — primarily found in plastics — that mimic hormones in your body. Known as endocrine disruptors (or estrogen mimetics), they interfere with natural hormone function and may contribute to developmental issues, brain health problems, and other long-term risks.

Plastics, introduced widely after World War II, are now everywhere — but most of them contain these harmful compounds. It’s time to look at what you’re using in your kitchen and how to make smarter swaps.

Non-Stick Pans (Especially Teflon)

Not all non-stick cookware is bad, but those made with Teflon (PTFE) are a major concern. PTFE is a known endocrine disruptor, and even though it’s still sold in stores, Dr. Gundry urges you to avoid it completely.

Better alternatives:

• Ceramic-based non-stick cookware
• Diamond or granite-coated pans (check labels to avoid PTFE)

Important tip: Even with safer pans, don’t use metal utensils — they can damage protective coatings. Use wood or silicone instead.

Aluminum Pans and Foil

Uncoated aluminum pans and aluminum foil can leach metal into your food when heated, posing risks to your brain health. Aluminum is a neurotoxin, and its exposure has been linked to cognitive decline.

What to do instead:

• Use ceramic-lined aluminum pans or stainless steel
• Replace foil with parchment paper when lining baking trays
• Use foil only as a tent (without touching food)

Stainless Steel Cookware

Stainless steel is a solid, safe choice. Yes, it can be harder to clean — but adding a little olive oil before cooking can help prevent sticking. (And as Dr. Gundry says, “the only purpose of food is to get olive oil into your mouth.”)

Ditch the Plastics

Plastic containers, bags, and utensils are everywhere — but most still contain hormone-disrupting chemicals. Even BPA-free products aren’t guaranteed safe, as BPS, a common replacement, may be just as harmful.

What to replace:

• Swap plastic containers for glass ones
• Use paper or wax paper for food wrapping
• Choose wood or stainless steel utensils, not plastic

Rethink Cast Iron and Copper Pans

Though once popular for their durability, cast iron pans can raise iron levels in the body, which may speed up aging and affect long-term health. Similarly, copper cookware can lead to copper toxicity, especially when unbalanced with zinc in the body.

Solution: Stick to ceramic-coated alternatives, and admire copper pans as décor — not cooking tools.

Beware of Pre-Washed Produce

Convenience often comes at a cost. Dr. Gundry conducted a personal experiment comparing pre-packaged salad greens to fresh whole produce. After weeks in the fridge, the pre-washed greens remained unnaturally pristine, while fresh produce spoiled normally.

His concern? These pre-packaged greens may be treated with undisclosed chemicals to extend shelf life — potentially disrupting your gut microbiome.

What to do instead:

• Buy whole lettuce, broccoli, and vegetables
• Use a salad spinner to wash and dry produce at home
• Store in glass containers for freshness and safety

Final Takeaways

Dr. Gundry’s message is clear: many “convenient” kitchen items are compromising our health through slow, invisible exposure to harmful chemicals. The good news? You can take small, simple steps to change that:

• Switch to safer cookware like ceramic and stainless steel
• Store food in glass, not plastic
• Use parchment and wax paper instead of aluminum or plastic wrap
• Prepare your produce at home to avoid hidden preservatives
• Avoid plastic utensils and hormone-mimicking materials

Convenience should never come at the cost of your long-term well-being. Start with one change at a time — your body (and your brain) will thank you.

Bonus Tip: That white pith you peel off citrus fruits? According to Dr. Gundry, it's packed with nutrients. Maybe think twice before tossing it next time.