Our Verification Philosophy
Transparency Over Marketing
We show you exactly what we know — and what we don't know — about each product. Every product page displays the verification tier, evidence type, and any limitations.
Conservative Claims
We never claim a product is "safer" or "healthier." We only state what we can verify: whether PFAS are present or absent based on available evidence.
Component-Level Analysis
A product isn't just one thing. A pan has a cooking surface, handle, rivets, and possibly a lid. We analyze each component that contacts food.
No Pay-to-Play
Verification status is never influenced by affiliate relationships or brand partnerships. We do not accept payment for reviews or placement.
The Four Verification Tiers
Products earn a verification tier based on the quality and completeness of evidence we have. Click each tier to learn more about requirements and limitations.
Component-Level Analysis
We don't just verify "the product" — we examine each component that contacts food. This matters because some products use PFAS-free coatings but have PFAS in handles, lids, or other components.
Example: Analyzing a Frying Pan
Why This Matters
Consider a typical nonstick pan. Even "PFAS-free" pans may have components we can't verify:
- Cooking surface: Primary food contact area — our main focus
- Pan body/walls: Contact food during cooking and cleaning
- Rivets: Often stainless steel (inherently PFAS-free)
- Handle: May contain silicone or rubber grips with unknown status
- Lid: Glass is safe, but silicone rims may contain PFAS
How We Evaluate Products
Our evaluation focuses on where your food actually meets the product — and under what conditions. Not all materials pose the same risk; context matters.
Food Contact & Heat
We prioritize surfaces that come into direct contact with food, especially when heat is involved. Heat can accelerate the migration of chemicals from materials into food, so we pay closest attention to cooking surfaces, pan interiors, and any plastic or coated components that touch hot food.
When Plastics May Be Acceptable
Some plastics and synthetic materials are acceptable in our evaluation when they are isolated from food contact. For example, a silicone handle grip that never touches your food, or plastic housing on an appliance base, does not affect the product's PFAS-free status for cooking. We still list these components for full transparency, but they do not lower a product's verification tier when they remain outside the food-contact zone.
Evidence Types
Not all evidence is created equal. We categorize evidence by type and weight it accordingly when determining verification tiers.
Types of Evidence
Lab Report
Strongest EvidenceIndependent third-party testing with quantitative results
Material Analysis
Strong EvidenceChemical composition documentation and specifications
Brand Documentation
Moderate EvidenceOfficial company policies, MSDS, supplier certifications
Public Statement
Requires Additional VerificationWebsite claims, marketing materials, press releases
Lab Testing Methods
For Tier 3 (Lab Tested) and Tier 4 (Monitored) products, we require testing from accredited laboratories using validated methods.
| Method | What It Detects | Detection Limit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| LC-MS/MSLiquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry | 30-50+ specific PFAS compounds | 0.1-5 ng/g typically | Identifying specific PFAS |
| Total Fluorine (CIC/PIGE)Combustion Ion Chromatography / PIGE | Total organic fluorine (all PFAS) | 10-100 ppm typically | Screening for any PFAS |
| TOFTotal Organic Fluorine | All fluorinated organic compounds | Varies by method | Comprehensive screening |
What We Verify in Lab Reports
- Lab accreditation — ISO 17025 or equivalent certification
- Method validation — Test method is appropriate for the matrix (metal, ceramic, etc.)
- Sample matching — Description matches the actual product
- Detection limits — LOD/LOQ are clearly stated
- Chain of custody — Documentation shows sample handling
How We Handle Unknowns
Transparency means admitting what we don't know. Here's how we handle various types of uncertainty:
Unknown Components
If we can't verify a component, we:
- List it as "Unknown" in the component table
- Note this limitation in the verification summary
- Lower the overall tier if the unknown affects food-contact surfaces
Changing Products
Products can change without notice. We:
- Date all evidence in our system
- Show when evidence was last updated
- Encourage users to verify with manufacturers
- Update listings when we receive new information
Regional Variations
Some products have different formulations by market. We:
- Specify which region our verification applies to
- Note when we know about regional variations
- Default to US market unless otherwise specified
Our Independence
No Pay-for-Play
We do not accept payment for reviews or rankings
Clear Disclosure
Affiliate links are always clearly disclosed
Tier Independence
Verification tier is never influenced by affiliate relationships
Evidence Integrity
All evidence documents are stored with SHA-256 hashes
Our Commitment
- Accuracy: Only stating what we can verify
- Transparency: Showing our evidence and limitations
- Independence: Never selling verification status
- Updates: Revising listings when new information emerges
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