Rice cookers are quite often a staple appliance in homes, offering a convenient and fuss-free way to cook rice.

But have you ever considered whether your rice cooker is truly healthy?

Many popular models contain harmful chemicals and coatings that can leach into your food during cooking.

Let’s dive into what to look out for and explore some of the best low-tox rice cookers available in Australia.

Harmful Substances to Avoid in Rice Cookers

When choosing a rice cooker, you need to be aware of certain toxic substances that can compromise your health. So let’s break it down…

1. PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) / Teflon Coatings

What it is: PTFE is a synthetic chemical used in non-stick coatings like Teflon.

Why it’s toxic: When heated above 260°C, PTFE can release toxic fumes that may cause flu-like symptoms in humans and are lethal to birds. It’s also a ‘forever chemical’ that stays in your body.

What to look for: Choose rice cookers with stainless steel bowls.

2. PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid)

What it is: A chemical used in the production of non-stick coatings like Teflon.

Why it’s toxic: PFOA has been linked to health issues such as cancer, hormone disruption, and developmental problems. While phased out in many countries, it may still be found in some products.

What to look for: Always choose rice cookers labelled “PFOA-free” or those without any chemical coatings.

3. BPA (Bisphenol A)

What it is: A chemical found in some plastics used for baskets, lids, and other components.

Why it’s toxic: BPA is an endocrine disruptor that can mimic oestrogen, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances, fertility issues, and other health concerns.

What to look for: Select rice cookers labelled “BPA-free” and prioritize designs with minimal plastic components.

4. Phthalates

What it is: A group of chemicals used to make plastics flexible and durable.

Why it’s toxic: Phthalates are linked to hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and developmental problems in children.

What to look for: Avoid rice cookers with plastic parts that could contain phthalates. Opt for stainless steel or other safe materials for food-contact surfaces.

5. Aluminium Bowls

What it is: Lightweight, cost-effective metal used in some rice cooker bowls.

Why it’s toxic: Aluminium is reactive, especially with acidic foods, and may leach into your meals. Prolonged exposure is associated with neurological concerns.

What to look for: Choose non-reactive materials such as stainless steel.

6. Lead in Heating Elements

What it is: A heavy metal that may be used in lower-quality heating components.

Why it’s toxic: Lead exposure can cause developmental delays, neurological damage, and kidney issues, especially in children.

What to look for: Look for certifications like RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances), which ensure lead-free components.

7. Cadmium in Paint or Coatings

What it is: A toxic metal sometimes used in decorative paints or exterior finishes.

Why it’s toxic: Cadmium is a known carcinogen that can leach or off-gas, especially if damaged or exposed to high heat.

What to look for: Avoid rice cookers with decorative finishes and stick to plain, unpainted designs.

8. Unknown Additives in Cheaper Materials

What it is: Mystery fillers or additives in low-cost rice cookers made with poor quality control.

Why it’s toxic: These unregulated chemicals can leach into food or off-gas over time, posing unknown risks.

What to look for: Buy from reputable brands with transparent safety and material testing standards.

9. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

What it is: A plastic sometimes used in handles, cords, or seals.

Why it’s toxic: PVC can release harmful dioxins, particularly when heated. These are linked to cancer, immune issues, and hormone disruption.

What to look for: Opt for rice cookers with PVC-free components and cords.

The good news is there are plenty of lower-tox rice cookers on the market nowadays, certainly a lot more than there used to be a few years ago.

Some are of course better than others, and as you can see from the above info in this post, you may not be able to tick off all the boxes, BUT… we found somethat are soooo much better.

#dontstressit if you already have a rice cooker that isn’t one of these, you can turn your current rice cooker into a better alternative by replacing the inner pot with a stainless steel one 👇🏻

We hope that gives you a good idea of what to look out for when choosing your next rice cooker, or how you can simply turn your existing rice cooker into a better alternative.

Of course, if we missed any, feel free to pop your suggestions in the comments so we can all check them out.

Much love,
Jo & Tracey x