I’ve mentioned before that I use silicone molds to make homemade gummy vitamins, lotion bars, and other household essentials, and this often leads people to ask, “Is silicone bakeware safe?” The truth is, it depends. Let’s dive a bit deeper into this topic.
First, it’s important to understand the difference between silicon, silica, and silicone—terms that are often confused. For this article, we’re focusing on silicone, which is a synthetic polymer. This type of silicone has been approved by the FDA as a food-safe substance since 1979 and is generally considered to be inert. Though widely used in kitchens for around 40 years, beginning with silicone spatulas, not every silicone bakeware you find online is FDA-approved—more on that in a bit.
There are good reasons why people like using silicone products such as baking pans in the kitchen. For starters, silicone is durable and can handle repeated use. It resists cracking, fading, and peeling and is often used in baking mats as an eco-friendly alternative to aluminum foil. Silicone cupcake liners are another eco-friendly choice, lasting for years.
Silicone bakeware is inherently more non-stick than traditional options, which is particularly handy for things like muffin cups and cake pans. Thanks to its natural non-stick properties, you often don’t need to grease or oil it beforehand, which means less added fat and fewer ingredients. And it saves you from the frustration of having your baked goods stick to the pan, usually ensuring a beautiful result.
Cleaning silicone baking products is a breeze—they’re usually dishwasher safe and are easy to hand wash with just soap and water. Their smooth surface resists staining and odors, so they look new for a long time. They’re also safe for refrigerators, freezers, and ovens, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. However, placing silicone directly on an oven rack can make it unstable or “floppy” when heated, so it’s best to set it on a metal baking tray.
Silicone doesn’t contain aluminum, is petroleum-free, and is free from BPA and PFAS, but the manufacturing process often involves certain agents and additives. The real question is whether these remain in the final product. With the rising popularity of silicone products, research on their safety is gaining traction.
A 2022 study examined additives in silicone molds to see what might leach into food, finding substances like BHT, a known carcinogen, along with other harmful chemicals. It noted the difference in quality between low-cost silicone molds and more expensive “platinum” silicone, which undergoes additional treatment to remove residues. These findings are alarming; low-quality silicone was found to emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at higher temperatures, making them unsuitable for food.
Manufacturers generally conduct safety tests, sometimes through third-party labs, to ensure their silicone complies with safety standards. Yet, the safety of silicone at high temperatures remains controversial—while they’re rated safe for up to around 450 degrees Fahrenheit, studies still show some concerns about possible toxicity, especially with lower-quality silicone.
Lower-quality silicone might have fillers that leach out when heated. These additives, such as plasticizers or pigments, could pose health risks. Studies are inconclusive but caution against these possibilities.
Some reports suggest silicone bakeware could degrade or emit odors if exposed to direct flames or extreme heat. Animal studies from the Siloxane Research Program found that certain siloxanes could affect fertility and cause tumors, impacting kidneys, liver, and lungs. Furthermore, a Swiss study in 2005 suggested that silicone bakeware is stable only up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit, while a German study highlighted increased leaching when used with high-fat foods.
A recent report by nine European consumer groups revealed that many silicone molds release contaminants at high temperatures, with some containing chemicals like endocrine disruptors. This highlights a need for caution, especially when using silicone bakeware for high-fat recipes like keto baking.
Silicone bakeware can harbor bacteria or mold if not properly cleaned, and scratches can become breeding grounds for bacteria. Some brands may falsely label their products as food-grade when they do not meet safety standards, warranting careful selection.
Most dangers associated with silicone appear at high temperatures and don’t apply to all brands and products. If you’re using silicone molds or bakeware, go for high-quality options without fillers or harmful additives. Here’s what to look for:
Choose silicone labeled “food-grade” or “FDA-approved,” ideally with “100% silicone.” Platinum-grade, processed with platinum, offers the highest purity. Reputable certifications, such as from the FDA or EFSA, ensure compliance with safety standards. Evaluate the quality, aiming for sturdy, smooth products without a strong chemical odor. Make sure it’s heat-resistant, but avoid open flames or broilers.
Research the brand for reviews on safety, durability, and performance. Stick to well-known brands to ensure quality, avoiding cheap imitations.
While I consider silicone better than plastic, I avoid using it for bakeware that requires high heat. Brands like Caraway and Xtrema offer alternative bakeware that’s toxin-free and user-friendly. For lower-temperature uses, silicone molds are great—for homemade gummy vitamins, deodorant bars, and similar items.
The recent 2022 report has made me cautious, and now I primarily use silicone molds at lower temperatures or in the fridge or freezer. For high-temperature needs, I prefer high-quality, FDA-approved medical-grade or platinum silicone, using it below 300 degrees Fahrenheit. For baking, I stick with brands like Caraway or Xtrema and opt for wood, glass, and stainless steel for stovetop cooking.
What are your views on silicone cookware? Do you use it? Share your thoughts with us!
