Caraway uses a sol-gel ceramic coating applied over an aluminum core and markets itself prominently as non-toxic, PTFE-free, and PFAS-free. Those claims are accurate — the ceramic coating does not contain fluoropolymers, does not release PTFE fumes at high heat, and is free from the forever-chemical concerns associated with traditional non-stick manufacturing. In that comparison to Teflon, Caraway is genuinely safer.
Traditional Teflon pans use PTFE, a fluoropolymer that off-gasses toxic fumes above 500°F, chips and flakes over time, and was historically produced using PFOA. Even modern PTFE pans carry coating degradation risks that ceramic pans avoid. Teflon is rated 'avoid' for good reason.
Caraway earns its 'better' rating, but it is not without limitations. The ceramic coating wears out — most sol-gel coatings lose significant non-stick performance within 1-3 years of regular use, at which point the aluminum core is exposed. Caraway is a meaningful upgrade from Teflon and one of the better-marketed ceramic options. For households wanting to eliminate coating concerns entirely, cast iron or carbon steel remain the top choices — but switching from Teflon to Caraway is a clear safety improvement.