Silicon, Wood or Metal? Here's the Safest Spatula

KBRN, Bogor: Wrong choice of spatula for cooking can be harmful. Bio medic Expert of IPB University, Benedikta Diah Saraswati, gave that warning.

"A wrong spatula can be harmful to health, especially when exposed to intense heat," Benedikta conveyed, as quoted by IPB University's official release, Tuesday (11/4/2025).

She further said that plastic is the riskiest one because it can experience thermal degradation when exposed to heat. According to her, some harmful substances can come from heated plastic, such as Bisphenol A (BPA) and ftalat, which are endocrine disruptors.

"Long-term exposure can affect fertility, insulin resistance, fatal development, and cancer," she said.

Meanwhile, Benedikta said the safest spatula to pick is a silicon spatula. It is because silicon is heat-resistant up to 250°C and does not contain any BPA, ftalat, and PVC.

The most recommended variation is platinum-cured silicon. "A pure silicon will not trigger oxidative stress or hormonal disorders, so it is safe for long-term use," Benedikta Diah said.

However, she said many cheap silicones are mixed with plastic. Benedikta added that people can check it easily by bending a silicon spatula.

"If a white part or crack appears, it's plastic. Pure silicon will never change color," she said.