As the demand for clean and conscious living continues to grow, the culinary landscape is transforming to offer cookware that aligns with consumers’ commitments to cleanliness and well-being. Particularly important, attention continues to be paid to the hazards of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as “forever chemicals” used to make nonstick cookware surfaces, among countless other applications. As such, the culinary market is flooded with cookware options and marketing claims that promise nonstick surfaces, nontoxic coating and eco-friendly design, making it hard for consumers to discern truly safe and reliable product choices.

The porcelain enamel difference

Genuine porcelain enamel, a form of ceramic coating, has been a staple of the kitchen industry for decades. It resists corrosion from household cleaners, abrasion and the wear and tear of daily handling.

Genuine porcelain enamel differs from the heavily promoted and advertised “ceramic-coated” cookware because it is derived from naturally occurring raw minerals such as clay and rock. Cookware with product claims of being ceramic-coated or mineral based are often painted with high-temperature solvent-containing finishes. This coating has a significantly shorter life span than porcelain enamel and may need to be disposed of as early as three years after purchase.

“Genuine porcelain enamel ceramic coatings have been used since the 19th century and with proper care and maintenance, will last for generations. We offer products that not only enrich everyday life, but also provide an exceptionally durable cookware finish that is a safe and made without PFAS.”

Ana Ligia Manzano, Business Manager Mexico Performance Enamel, Ceramics and Color Solutions

Our porcelain enamels contribute to clean cookware that performs

Vibrantz offers safe porcelain enamel coatings made without lead and PFAS. Several of our existing products such our matte black and creamy white porcelain enamels for cast iron cookware satisfy European food contact tests and comply with ISO 4531 which assesses harmful chemicals’ migration from cookware to food.

Applied on steel or cast-iron, porcelain enamel cookware is a secure and dependable choice, offering:

  • Durability – Our porcelain enamel ceramic coating demonstrates superior abrasion resistance in Taber tests and when compared to high temperature sol-gel paints and performance thermoplastic. It has a hardness rating of 6 on the Mohs scale, in comparison, a diamond has a rating of 10.
  • Health and safety – Our porcelain enamels satisfy standard industry tests that regulate leaching into food through the release of dangerous underlying chemicals.
  • Heat resistance – Porcelain enamel cookware is oven-safe, resistant to warping, discoloration and cracking, and can withstand a direct flame and temperatures up to 850°F (480 to 450°C).
  • Versatility – Porcelain enamel can be used on stovetops using gas, induction or electric heat.
  • Taste – As a “nonreactive surface,” porcelain enamel does not transmit or absorb odors therefore food will not develop a metallic taste.
  • Easy clean up – Porcelain enamel has a smooth and nonporous finish, allowing it to be easily hand-washed or cleaned in a dishwasher with no harm to its surface quality.
  • Aesthetic appeal – Porcelain enamel cookware is available in a wide range of colors which adds decorative elements to kitchens and tablescapes. It has excellent color stability and will not fade or blister.

Vibrantz’s porcelain enamel ceramic coatings offer a breadth of colorful and customizable solutions. They are a smart alternative for kitchen essentials that are durable, safe and can be easily maintained for long-lasting quality.

Connect with us to learn more about our time-tested porcelain enamel coatings for cookware, appliances, water heaters and myriad consumer uses throughout the home.

Charles Baldwin

R&D Global Manager, Porcelain Enamel and Ceramic Coatings

Charles Baldwin

R&D Global Manager, Porcelain Enamel and Ceramic Coatings

Baldwin leads the development of new products for the Performance Coatings business at Vibrantz. He supports growth initiatives and drives cross-functional collaboration through innovative product management. Previously, he served as research and development global director for porcelain enamels and technical manager at Ferro. Baldwin holds Master and Bachelor of Science degrees in science and engineering from Case Western Reserve University.