By now, most of us know the reasons why we should be mindful of our cookware. Our food is already contaminated enough. Why add to it through our pots and pans with non-stick surfaces or aluminum, just because they are easier to clean!

In my research for pots, I discovered that a little bit of common-sense can be helpful in making better decisions. I have bought pots that were labeled stainless steel, but when I tested them at home I found they were made of something else! How did I test them? I used one of the magnets stuck to my refrigerator. I learned a long time ago that a magnet should always stick to metal or steel.

For example, I bought a magnetic bracelet. I heard about the benefits of magnetic therapy for pain and other ailments. It’s a therapy that has been around for centuries, so I assumed the benefits must be true. Honestly, I haven’t noticed any benefits, but the bracelet is stylish! I wear it every day and it came in handy when I was in the market for a new pot.

I went to a discount store and the first pot I looked at had stainless steel stamped on it. So, I removed my magnetic bracelet from my wrist and proceeded to verify if it was so. The magnets on my bracelet did not stick to the inner areas of the pot, they slid to the bottom and moved around from side to side when I tilted it. Fortunately, I was able to find a another pot labeled stainless steel that the magnets stuck to on all surfaces, inside and out. This was the one I bought

Having a magnet at the store to confirm the authenticity of the stainless steel pot, was a time saver and ensured I was not introducing contaminants in my cooked meals.

Testing a pot labeled stainless steel with a magnetic bracelet.