Frequent Asked Questions

Products made of silicone have entered different areas of our lives, even our kitchenware, etc. So we will have some doubts that are silicone products safe. Is it harmful to humans? Is it biodegradable? Does it damage the environment?

With these questions in mind, we would like to bring some answers to the frequently asked questions about silicone and its features.

Is Silicone Safe

It depends. For the most part, it is. However, there is something that needs to take into consideration.

Many experts consider silicones to be non-toxic and safe for contact with food and drink. For example, Health Canada states, “There are no known health hazards associated with the use of silicone cookware. Silicone rubber does not react with food or beverages, or produce any hazardous fumes.”

However, some studies have found that silicones are not exactly inserted and can release certain toxic substances at low levels.

Of course, different qualities of silicone behave differently. We must choose high-quality silicone when we buy silicone products. For example, silicone tableware in the United States must be verified by the FDA. Food-grade silicones that are regulated by the FDA should not contain fillers.  Silicone should not change color when it is twisted.

Is silicone recyclable

Put simple, the answer is YES, silicone is recyclable.

Silicone is considered eco-friendly and sustainable. However, when silicone hits the end of its lifespan, it is not biodegradable or decomposes (certainly not in our lifetimes). Silicone is very persistent in the environment. So, how could we deal with it? Specialized recycling companies will recycle it and typically down-cycle it into oil used as a lubricant for industrial machines.

The process of recycling silicone involves breaking the material down into tiny pieces, which are ground up and heated to an extremely high temperature. The resulting vapors are then cooled and collected as a liquid. Thereafter, this liquid goes through multiple filtration processes until it can be transformed into silicone oil, which is used to create new silicone products.

Is silicone heat resistant

Most silicones have an operating temperature from -60°C up to +230°C. Based on this, in addition to its other properties, it is no surprise that silicone is used for so many different purposes.

This heat resistance is due to the highly stable chemical structure of silicone. 

Silicone has a low thermal conductivity. This means it transfers heat at a much slower rate than some other materials, leading to excellent heat resistance. It can also be described as having good ‘thermal stability’ meaning it retains its structure and properties over a wide temperature range.

Does silicone have BPA

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a compound that has been used in food and beverage packaging and was unknown to the public until it was discovered to be harmful to humans. Today, BPA is known as an endocrine-disrupting compound that acts similarly to hormones or disrupts normal hormone function.

Unlike plastic, Silicone is non-reactive, stable, and can stand for extremely high and low temperatures. Food-grade silicone is free of BPA, BPS, latex, and other chemical additives. Above all, silicone is non-toxic and safe to use, widely adopted for medical applications.

Does silicone burn

Silicone is not a flammable material. It can catch fire and burn, but only at extremely high temperatures. At high temperatures (200-450oC), silicone rubber (not silicone sealant) will slowly lose its mechanical properties over time, becoming brittle.

Does silicone float

Materials that are lighter than water (density of water: 1 g/cm3) will float. Most materials have specific gravities exceeding 1.0, which means they are heavier than water and will sink. The density of Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) is typically in the range of 1.10 – 1.50 g/cm3, so it will sink.

However, Silicone covers a wide range of compounds and formulations. Silicone rubber normally sinks. Unless compounded with other materials. Some float when it’s dry, but not when it is saturated with water.

Does silicone absorb odors

Silicone baking pans are favored by many home cooks because they provide a flexible and easy-to-use non-stick baking surface.

However, it can also absorb odors from strong-smelling foods such as onions and garlic after a few uses. When the ice cube tray starts to carry the smell from the back of the refrigerator.

Is silicone UV-resistant

Silicone rubber is a first-class performer with excellent UV and ozone resistance. Because silicone is inorganic, it has no carbon backbone in the polymer structure which would make organic polymers vulnerable to attack.

Is silicone a good insulator

Liquid silicone rubber maintains its electrical properties at all times, even under environmental conditions such as temperature fluctuations and humidity. These properties prove that silicone rubber is an excellent insulator for high-voltage components, transformers, and other electrical equipment.

Can You Put Silicone In Air Fryer

The answer depends on the specific silicone product and the air fryer.

Many silicone products, such as silicone baking mats and silicone cooking utensils, can be used in an air fryer without any issues. However, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that the silicone product is safe for use in the air fryer and at the desired temperature.

It’s also important to note that some air fryers may have specific guidelines or restrictions for the types of materials that can be used in them. Again, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance.

Can Silicone Go In The Microware

Yes, silicone is generally safe to use in the microwave. However, it is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that the silicone product you are using is specifically labeled as microwave-safe. Some silicone products may not be suitable for use in the microwave, and may melt or release harmful chemicals when heated. Additionally, it’s a good idea to avoid overheating silicone in the microwave, as this can cause it to break down and release chemicals. It’s recommended to use a lower power setting and shorter cooking time than you would use for other materials. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and care of your silicone product.

Is Silicone Toxic

Silicone is generally considered non-toxic and safe for use in food and medical applications. It is an inert, synthetic material made from silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen, and is resistant to heat, water, and chemicals. However, it is still important to use silicone products as intended and to follow proper care and cleaning instructions. Some low-quality or improperly cured silicone products may contain toxic compounds or additives, so it is important to purchase products from reputable manufacturers and suppliers. Additionally, while silicone is generally safe for use in food and medical applications, it is not recommended for use in applications involving direct flame or high heat, as it may release harmful fumes.

Is Silicone Safe for Cooking

Yes, silicone is generally considered safe for cooking. It is non-toxic and can withstand high temperatures, making it a popular choice for kitchen utensils, bakeware, and other cooking-related products. However, it’s always important to use silicone products according to the manufacturer’s instructions and to avoid exposing them to excessive heat or open flames.

Is Silicone Oven Safe

Yes, silicone is generally considered safe for use in ovens. Silicone can withstand high temperatures and is heat-resistant up to about 450°F (230°C) or higher depending on the specific product.

However, it’s important to note that not all silicone products are created equal and some may have temperature limitations or other restrictions, so it’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and care.

Is It Safe to Bake in Silicone

Yes, it is generally safe to bake in silicone. Silicone is a non-toxic material that can withstand high temperatures and is often used for baking molds, mats, and other kitchen tools. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for temperature and usage, and to avoid using silicone items that are damaged or show signs of wear and tear.

Is Silicone Safe for Food

Yes, silicone is generally considered safe for food use. It is non-toxic, non-reactive, and does not contain harmful chemicals like BPA or phthalates. Silicone is also non-stick, easy to clean, and heat-resistant, which makes it a popular material for cooking and baking utensils, bakeware, and food storage containers. However, it is always recommended to purchase silicone products from reputable brands and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and care.

Is Silicone Bad for Your Skin

In general, silicone is considered safe for use on the skin. It is often used in cosmetics and personal care products, such as moisturizers and sunscreens, as it can help to improve the texture and spreadability of the product. However, some people may have an allergic reaction to silicone, and it is possible for certain types of silicone to clog pores and exacerbate acne. It is always a good idea to patch test a small area of skin before using a new product, and to discontinue use if any irritation or adverse reactions occur.