How to Find a Non-Toxic Dutch Oven
It’s a classic piece of cookware for a reason: Dutch ovens can do it all! But unless you have some devious secret ingredients, you probably don’t want toxins anywhere near your dinner. Some Dutch ovens are made with hazardous materials that can end up in your food—and ultimately—in you. Not to worry! We’ll help you keep those forever chemicals out of the kitchen with some of our favorite non-toxic Dutch ovens.
What is a Non-Toxic Dutch Oven, Exactly?
Dutch ovens are wide, heavy pots with a tight-fitting lid. They are an incredibly versatile tool to have in any kitchen, as they can be used for slow cooking, roasting, baking, searing, and even deep-frying.
Unfortunately, like many other kinds of cookware, they’re often manufactured with harmful materials that you definitely don’t want in your food. The most common chemicals of concern when it comes to conventional Dutch ovens can be found in the colored enamel and nonstick coating. These include:
- Cadmium
- Lead
- PFAS and PFOA
Even uncoated ovens aren’t immune to toxins, as high heat as well as acidic foods can cause aluminum and nickel to leach into food.
Non-toxic Dutch ovens are made without these toxic elements or designed to prevent heavy metals from getting into your food, making for a much safer meal.
Top 6 Non-Toxic Dutch Ovens: How We Chose
To bring you the best non-toxic Dutch ovens, we looked for high-quality, consciously-crafted cookware. After cutting out the chemically-treated competition, here’s how we found our favorites:
- Material: Cast iron, ceramic, and porcelain are your best bet for safe cooking when they aren’t treated with toxic additives like PFAS.
- Quality: We found brands that keep it simple and clean without sacrificing high-performance standards.
- Versatility: You need a Dutch oven that can handle the heat—whether you’re prepping a roast or baking some bread.
Our Picks
All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author and DGHQ editors. However, Do Good HQ may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.
1. Caraway Dutch Oven
| Certifications | CA Prop 65 approved |
| Material | Ceramic |
| Capacity | 6.5 qt |
| Price at Publishing | $135 |
Caraway’s lead-free Dutch oven is made without any pesky forever chemicals, heavy metals, or toxic coatings. It’s oven-safe up to 550 degrees and comes in a variety of colors, so you can pick the pot that suits your style.
Highlights
Enjoy nonstick cooking with all the non-toxic perks. The ceramic coating keeps food from sticking and makes it easy to clean.
Things to Consider
Since the ceramic coating isn’t subject to a hard anodization process, it’s prone to chipping, so handle with care. Hand-washing is also recommended.
2. Our Place Perfect Pot
| Certifications | Not listed |
| Material | Aluminum and ceramic |
| Capacity | 5.5 qt |
| Price at Publishing | $165 |
Designed with function as well as fashion in mind, this non-toxic, nonstick pot is oven-safe up to 450 degrees and perfect for all your stove-top favorites. With a whole collection of accessories made to fit the pot, it’ll quickly become your go-to sous chef.
Highlights
This pot comes with a built-in strainer and a notched beechwood spoon that fits conveniently on the handles.
Things to Consider
The steam-releasing lid is well-suited to some recipes, but if you’re looking for a Dutch oven to trap moisture or bake bread, it’s not ideal.
3. Xtrema Classic Oval Dutch Oven
| Certifications | SGS-tested, FDA-approved |
| Material | Ceramic |
| Capacity | 7.5 qt |
| Price at Publishing | $349.99 |
It’s considered one of the best Dutch ovens for a reason. Xtrema’s stylish kitchen staple is made of 100% natural ceramic—which means no toxic coatings or leaching from a metal core. The elegant oval shape and textured exterior make it as pretty as it is practical.
Highlights
Xtrema offers a 30-day trial period, a 10-year warranty, and a forever replacement program. And unlike some similar pots, this Dutch oven is dishwasher safe!
Things to Consider
At the time of publishing, this Dutch oven only comes in one (large) size.
4. Staub Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven
| Certifications | Not listed |
| Material | Cast iron and enamel |
| Capacity | 4-13.25 qt |
| Price at Publishing | $370-$660 |
Staub’s classic cast iron Dutch oven is durable and versatile, with a wide variety of colors, finishes, and sizes to choose from. The heavy lid traps steam and, thanks to strategically spaced bumps on the inside, directs evaporating moisture back toward your food.
Highlights
This non-toxic gem is dishwasher-safe and rust-resistant.
Things to Consider
It’s not the most affordable option on our list, but it’s built to last! Avoid using metal utensils when cooking or serving to preserve the enamel.
5. Emile Henry Flame Round Stewpot Dutch Oven
| Certifications | Not listed |
| Material | Ceramic |
| Capacity | 2.6-6.3 qt |
| Price at Publishing | $120-$199.96 |
Bring home French excellence with this 100% ceramic, non-toxic Dutch oven. It’s strong enough to go from the freezer to the oven, and because there’s no metal core, it’s lighter than the cast-iron alternatives.
Highlights
Emile Henry’s ceramics are made using energy-efficient firing techniques and natural materials, so they’re healthier for you and the Earth! Being dishwasher-safe is just the cherry on top.
Things to Consider
Because each item is handcrafted, there may be some slight variation between products.
6. Budget Find: Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid
| Certifications | Not listed |
| Material | Cast iron and porcelain |
| Capacity | 6 qt |
| Price at Publishing | $71.08 |
If you’re here for form and function without a hefty price, this affordable non-toxic Dutch oven is your answer. The porcelain enamel is durable, chip resistant, and comes in a variety of palate-pleasing colors.
Highlights
The cast-iron core means even heating through the bottom and side, perfect for stews and roasts. Lodge also prides itself on taking part in eco-friendly initiatives like the Tennessee Green Star Partnership and the Energy Star Challenge.
Things to Consider
While it’s technically dishwasher safe, the makers recommend hand washing it with a nylon brush to preserve the finish.
How to Choose the Best Non-Toxic Dutch Oven for You
So, now that you know your options, how do you pick the perfect PFAS-free pot? When you’re ready to commit to a new member of the cookware family, here are a couple of points to note:
- Materials: Dutch ovens made with metal cores are great for retaining heat and are generally less prone to wear and tear. Ceramic is more delicate but lighter and easier to handle.
- Certifications: While not every pot worth using can hold up a gold star, it’s worth seeking out brands whose claims are verified by third parties. Look for products that demonstrate their commitment to health and safety standards through thorough testing, approval, or recognition.
With a lot of options and a little luck, there’s no doubt you’ll find the perfect non-toxic Dutch oven for safe, sustainable, satisfying meals.
More Non-Toxic Kitchen Appliances to Consider
Looking for more ways to detox your kitchen? We’ve got you covered:
- Where to Find the Safest Bakeware: 6 Brands We Love
- Non-Toxic Tupperware: How to Find Your Best Fit
- PFOA- and PTFE-Free Air Fryer
Featured image via Xtrema
