The general consensus among experts and health authorities is that if your Teflon (non-stick) pan starts to peel or shows signs of significant wear, it's best to stop using it and replace it with a new one. When Teflon coatings begin to deteriorate, the flakes or particles can end up in your food, and there are potential health concerns associated with ingesting Teflon.
Teflon is a brand name for a type of non-stick coating called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). When this coating is heated to high temperatures or exposed to scratches, it can release harmful fumes and particles, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a potentially toxic chemical.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that the fumes released from overheated Teflon pans can cause "polymer fume fever," a temporary flu-like condition. Birds are particularly sensitive to these fumes, and exposure to them can be fatal to pet birds.
While manufacturers of Teflon claim that their pans are safe to use under normal cooking conditions, they also advise against using pans with significant signs of wear or peeling. As a precautionary measure, it's best to replace any non-stick pan, including Teflon, if it shows signs of deterioration.
To prolong the life of your non-stick pans, it's essential to use them at the appropriate temperature (avoid overheating), use only non-metallic utensils to avoid scratching the surface, and follow the manufacturer's care instructions. Additionally, consider using alternative types of cookware, such as stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic, which do not have non-stick coatings and are generally considered safe to use.