Cast iron skillets are not always seasoned before they are sold for several reasons:
Storage and transportation: Seasoning involves applying a layer of oil or fat to the cast iron surface and then heating it to create a polymerized coating. If cast iron skillets were seasoned before being sold, there could be issues with the oil coating becoming sticky or damaged during storage and transportation, leading to an undesirable product for the consumer.
Shelf life: Seasoning can degrade over time, especially if the skillet is exposed to moisture or other environmental factors. If skillets were pre-seasoned and sat on shelves for an extended period before purchase, the seasoning might lose its effectiveness, potentially leading to rust or poor cooking performance.
User preferences: Some consumers prefer to season their cast iron skillets themselves as part of the bonding experience with the cookware. Additionally, different oils and fats can be used for seasoning, each contributing distinct flavors and properties to the skillet. Allowing users to season the skillet according to their preference provides greater flexibility.
Marketing and branding: Pre-seasoned cast iron skillets have become more popular in recent years, but some manufacturers still choose not to pre-season their products. This decision may be based on marketing strategies or brand identity, as some companies prefer to emphasize the traditional nature of cast iron cookware and encourage users to season the skillet themselves.
While many cast iron skillets are sold pre-seasoned these days, not all of them are, and it's worth checking the product description or packaging to know if seasoning is required before initial use. In any case, seasoning a cast iron skillet is a straightforward process, and it allows the user to build up a natural non-stick surface over time with proper care and use.