Silicone Still in Question

Reader, Sandra Tom wrote (see below) asking about the safety of the silicone letter/number ice trays we’ve featured:

May I please ask where are these ice trays made? Can I be certain they don't contain any carcinogenic or toxic substances that will bake into or freeze into my foods?

Thank you for your kind assistance!

Sandra Tom

And if you’ll remember, in April, one of our readers, Ginger White, also had a concern about silicone. Here’s what we found as we researched the answer to this question. Hope this calms the concerns any of our readers may have:

According to Health Canada, (the Federal department responsible for helping Canadians maintain and improve their health, and a great source of unbiased research):

Silicone is a synthetic rubber which contains bonded silicon (a natural element which is very abundant in sand and rock) and oxygen. Cookware made from food grade silicone has become popular in recent years because it is colorful, nonstick, stain-resistant, hard-wearing, cools quickly, and tolerates extremes of temperature. There are no known health hazards associated with use of silicone cookware. Silicone rubber does not react with food or beverages, or produce any hazardous fumes.

In the United States Silicone cookware is considered safe. Per the FDA: "Silicon Cookware is inert, FDA approved and safe up to 428 degrees F. If heated above its safe range, silicon melts but doesn’t outgas toxic vapors. This is apparently because silicon is a manmade blend of sand and oxygen (versus a synthetic plastic). It is the only non-reactive, non-stick material".

As we studied various cooking blogs, reading opinions of bakers around the country, we found a variety of views. Many said they weren’t that happy with the baking performance of silicone (uneven baking, little browning, sometimes raw in the middle, for example). BUT across the board, folks LOVE it for freezing, which is why we’re featuring the letter/number ice trays. They really are fun and so easy to use!

For even more information though, we looked at the Wilton Website to see what they had to say about this bakeware. They like it so much they’ve even created their own line of it. So read on, then you be the judge:

What are the benefits of silicone?

Because silicone is so flexible, it makes it easier to store the pieces at home. The release of the baked goods from the bakeware is also easy since you can "peel" the pan away vs. metal bakeware which is very rigid, or paper cupcake holders that you use once and throw away!

Will it melt?
No, silicone bakeware and accessories are high-heat resistant up to 428°F or in our line, 500° F.

Is it safe?
Yes, silicone bakeware and accessories are made of food grade silicone.

Can I use it like my metal bakeware?
Yes, silicone bakeware is interchangeable with metal shapes. For success in using your silicone bakeware:

Always spray all baking surfaces with a non-stick cooking spray before using

Carefully watch the progress of your baked goods as some time and temperature adjustments may need to be made

Always place the silicone bakeware on a cookie sheet or baking pan in order to avoid spillage

Allow baked goods to cool completely before removing from pan

Never use metal utensils to cut or serve from your silicone pieces

How do I clean my silicone?

Silicone bakeware is dishwasher safe and can also be hand washed in hot soapy water. Abrasive cleansers and scouring pads should never be used on silicone.

Can I use it in the microwave?

Yes, you can use your silicone bakeware in a conventional oven as well as microwave and toaster ovens. Never use it under a broiler, on a hotplate or burner, or over open flame.

Will it lose its shape?
No, silicone bakeware maintains its shape regardless of frequency of use or storage.

Will it retain any odors or flavors?
During normal use, the bakeware should not retain any flavors or odors.

Can I do more than bake in it?

Yes, silicone bakeware is extremely versatile. It can withstand temperature changes such as going from freezer directly to oven, and can be used as a mold for things such as gelatin, ice cream, ice, dips, etc.

So back to the letter/number ice trays. Here’s a killer idea!

Remember the GREEN DRINK recipe from last week? Make some, freeze in these neat trays, then use this healthy ice cube to chill your summertime drinks. As they melt they’ll add some extra color, vitamins and fiber to a typically non-healthy drink. Who’s gonna know you’re sneaking in some nutrition?