1. Test items
Material composition test: mainly test the iron content of the iron pan to ensure the purity of its material. Some inferior iron pans may be mixed with other harmful heavy metals, such as lead and cadmium. These heavy metals will dissolve during the cooking process and enter the food, endangering human health. For example, long-term intake of foods with excessive lead will affect the function of the nervous system and cardiovascular system. The iron content of high-quality iron pans should meet national standards to ensure the iron supplement effect while avoiding harmful impurities.
Coating safety test: Nowadays, some iron pans have non-stick coatings, and it is necessary to test whether the coating meets the food contact safety standards. The coating cannot release toxic and harmful substances at high temperatures. For example, if the quality of Teflon coating is not up to standard, it may decompose harmful gases to the human body when used above the specified temperature, threatening the kitchen environment and the health of users.
Pot strength and sealing test: Check the structural strength of the pot body, including the uniformity of the pot wall thickness, the toughness of the pot bottom, etc. The pot wall is too thin and easy to deform, affecting the service life; the pot bottom has poor toughness and is easy to crack when heated. At the same time, sealing is related to the cooking effect. The lid and the pot body fit tightly, which can effectively lock the steam, speed up the cooking of food, reduce heat loss, and improve cooking efficiency.
2. Detection method
Spectroscopic analysis method: used for material composition detection, through atomic absorption spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy and other technologies, accurately determine the content of iron and other elements, and quickly and accurately determine the purity of the iron pot material.
Simulation test method: Place the coated iron pot in an experimental device that simulates a high-temperature cooking environment. After heating for a long time, use professional instruments to detect whether harmful substances are released, and intuitively evaluate the safety of the coating.
Physical performance test method: Use a pressure tester to apply a certain pressure to the pot body, observe the deformation of the pot body, measure the thickness deviation of the pot wall, and judge the strength of the pot body; observe whether there is water seepage at the connection between the lid and the pot body after water injection to detect sealing.
3. Testing standards
The domestic standards follow GB 4806.9 "National Food Safety Standard Metal Materials and Products for Food Contact" and other relevant standards, which clearly stipulate the requirements for various indicators such as iron pan materials, coatings, and physical properties; internationally, different countries and regions also have similar strict standards, and exported iron pans must meet the standards of the corresponding importing countries to ensure global compatibility and safety.
4. Significance of testing
For manufacturers, strict testing can control product quality, reduce the flow of defective products into the market, enhance brand reputation, and enhance market competitiveness. For consumers, using iron pans that have passed the test can not only cook delicious dishes with peace of mind, but also avoid health risks. Especially for people who need iron supplements, high-quality iron pans are an ideal choice. From the perspective of industry development, standardized testing has promoted the upgrading of iron pan manufacturing technology, promoted the development of products in a more environmentally friendly, safe, and durable direction, inherited the traditional Chinese cooking utensils culture, and injected more quality assurance into kitchen life.
In short, iron pan testing runs through all links of the industrial chain and is an important support for protecting the health of the dining table and promoting the progress of the industry.
