Silicone is a material present in many kitchen utensils today. From baking molds to containers, these products are made from a polymer composed of silica, oils and gels. These utensils are highly flexible, non-stick and do not rust, making them an effective alternative to other materials such as plastic, latex or rubber. However, you should not use silicone spatulas to stir stews, stir-fries or any other preparation that is cooked at high temperatures.
Silicone elastomers are considered inert and stable at low temperatures, while some studies have observed that they release siloxanes in contact with fatty or oily foods subjected to high temperatures. This is why the use of this type of utensil is recommended exclusively for cold preparations such as, for example, in baking, skimming the bowl in which the dough has been mixed.
In these cases, wood stands as the most effective alternative. These utensils, in addition to being economical and durable, are resistant to high temperatures and are also used to scrape pans without fear of damaging their non-stick component. To prevent them from getting rough and worn out, you can periodically brush them with olive oil. Yes indeed! It is prohibited to wash them in the dishwasher, as humidity could lead to the formation of bacteria due to the pores of the wood.
On the other hand, stainless steel utensils are the most suitable option when serving food.
