Pyrex has been a household name for generations, known for its durable and versatile glassware. From baking dishes to measuring cups, Pyrex products are a staple in many kitchens. However, there has been some debate and controversy surrounding the safety of using Pyrex in the oven. In this article, we will explore whether it is safe to use Pyrex in the oven and provide tips for doing so safely.
The History of Pyrex
Pyrex was first introduced by Corning Glass Works in 1915. It was created to address the need for heat-resistant glassware that could withstand high temperatures without shattering. Pyrex glass is made from borosilicate, a type of glass known for its thermal stability and resistance to thermal expansion. Borosilicate glass has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, which means it can handle rapid temperature changes without breaking.
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The Controversy
The controversy surrounding Pyrex's safety in recent years is related to changes in the glass formula. In the 1990s, Corning sold the Pyrex brand to World Kitchen, which transitioned from borosilicate glass to soda-lime glass for its products in the United States. Soda-lime glass has a higher coefficient of thermal expansion compared to borosilicate glass, making it more susceptible to breaking when exposed to extreme temperature changes.
This change led to concerns about the safety of using Pyrex in the oven. Many people reported instances of Pyrex bakeware shattering while in use, causing injuries and damage. The debate about the safety of Pyrex products became a subject of discussion among consumers and experts.
Is It Safe to Use Pyrex in the Oven?
The safety of using Pyrex in the oven largely depends on the type of Pyrex glassware you have and how you use it. Here are some key points to consider:
Borosilicate vs. Soda-Lime Glass:
If you have older Pyrex products made of borosilicate glass, they are generally safe for oven use. They can withstand rapid temperature changes and are less likely to shatter. However, if you have newer Pyrex products made of soda-lime glass, you should exercise caution.
Temperature Changes:
Avoid subjecting Pyrex glassware to extreme temperature changes. While borosilicate glass is more resistant to thermal shock, soda-lime glass is not. To prevent breakage, do not place cold Pyrex directly into a hot oven or take hot Pyrex out of the oven and place it on a cold surface.
Preheating:
When using Pyrex in the oven, it's a good practice to preheat the oven with the Pyrex dish inside. This helps to gradually increase the temperature of the glass and reduce the risk of thermal shock.
Avoid Direct Flame:
Do not expose Pyrex glassware to direct flames or use it on a stovetop. It is designed for oven use and may not withstand direct heat from gas burners or open flames.
Check for Damage:
Before using any Pyrex dish in the oven, inspect it for chips, cracks, or scratches. Damaged glassware is more likely to break when exposed to heat.
Is thermal shock a concern?
Yes, thermal shock is a significant concern when using glassware like Pyrex in the oven, particularly if you have Pyrex products made from soda-lime glass. Thermal shock occurs when there is a rapid and extreme temperature change, causing the glass to expand or contract unevenly, which can lead to cracking or shattering.
To prevent thermal shock, avoid rapid temperature changes, such as placing cold Pyrex into a hot oven or exposing it to direct flames. It's advisable to preheat the oven with the Pyrex dish inside and use oven-safe temperatures as recommended by the manufacturer. Always inspect your Pyrex for damage like chips or cracks before using it in the oven to reduce the risk of breakage.
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In conclusion, it is generally safe to use Pyrex in the oven, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind. The safety of your Pyrex glassware depends on its type (borosilicate or soda-lime glass) and how you use it. If you have older Pyrex products made of borosilicate glass, they are more heat-resistant and less likely to shatter. However, newer soda-lime glass Pyrex products require more careful handling to avoid breakage. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and exercise caution to ensure the safe use of Pyrex in the oven.