Pros and cons of a multicooker, advantages and disadvantages, harm and benefit.

The article will try to comprehensively assess the problem. People were born who consider exploitation unsafe. Other subjects argue: living is harmful - most die. Probably the truth is in the middle, everyone has their own. Is a slow cooker harmful to your health? Throw away your laptop!

This is interesting! People on Earth carry perfluorooctanoic acid in their blood, which was used in the production of Teflon until the beginning of the 21st century. The highest concentrations were recorded in Korea, Afghanistan, Vietnam, and Peru. Studies of rats have shown that 91% of acid is removed from the female body in 24 hours, and 6% from the male body. The substance disrupts lipid metabolism and human hormonal levels, causes cancer of the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and other organs.

Environmentally friendly coatings

Pottery has gained popularity due to shocking news. The technological cycle for annealing Teflon for multicookers uses perfluorooctanoic acid, which is a carcinogen. A serious argument. Opponents of Teflon for slow cookers unanimously cried out: the bowl releases PFOA, filling the ingredients placed inside. The acid disintegrates at 250 ºС, the coating itself is applied at 400 degrees. Health-obsessed Europe didn't seem to have enough. By 2015 (decided on January 25, 2006), European manufacturers will stop using the toxic substance in the manufacture of Teflon for multicookers.

On the other side:

• DuPont, the owner of the Teflon trademark, was fined for failing to provide product analysis results between 1981 and 2001.
• In laboratory animals, PFOA causes cancer of the reproductive organs and liver; the ability to remain in the body for up to four years makes the substance dangerous.
• Exceeding acid concentrations in water were discovered around the company's factories, and residents of the surrounding area received compensation.
• The effect of a bomb exploding was produced by the fact that traces of acid were found in the blood of all US residents, and Teflon was blamed.

The half-life of PFOA is hundreds of years; the poison accumulates in the environment and people. The concentration inside animals is several times lower. The company changed its coating production technology.

The opponents calmed down. Teflon is a polymer that degrades over time and breaks down into its component parts. Does the problem apply to multicookers? There is reason to believe that manufacturers have used special technologies to slow down decay. Experts say: degradation begins no earlier than after 5 years when it comes to building materials.

After 2 years of use, the Teflon coating leaves no trace on the multicooker pot. I think this was not done by accident. Surely a thicker layer could be applied, but this was not done due to the ability of polymers to disintegrate. In other words, whenever the multicooker is analyzed, nothing harmful will be found. In 2 years, in 5 years. Research has shown that the concentration of hazardous substances is extremely low, unless the production technology of the products is violated.

The trouble - rumors - concerns not only Teflon. They say that when producing ceramic coatings for multicooker bowls, catalysts and hardeners are used. These remain in a frozen layer and at a certain temperature begin to mix with food in the slow cooker. It is difficult to judge how true it is; AiF provided the information.

Ceramics are sintered at a temperature of 1000 ºС; it is simply impossible to coat an aluminum multicooker pot. Therefore, chemicals are added to the composition. Manufacturers claim that the ingredients are natural, but experts tend to doubt it. No serious studies have been carried out.

When it comes to stainless steel, the perennial problem is nickel. The metal used in multicookers is good when you need to give the metal strength; allergy sufferers are not inclined to consider it the best additive. One thing can be said. Stainless steel has been used in household utensils and multicookers for half a century, and no one has died. It seems that the coating cannot be more dangerous than Teflon, which is a dubious ceramic coating technology. Steel is unlikely to be harmful to health when it comes to making crock pots.

Radiation

In one review of juicers, plastic housings are called unhygienic and get dirty quickly. We agree: the multicooker should be encased in steel. The device emits. The frequency of 50 Hz is extremely harmful to the brain; the fields suppress the vital functions of the body. Try checking the field with a tester screwdriver (price 200 rubles per piece).

Think about it: our youth should not hold such powerful sources of radiation on their knees, let healthy offspring be born. An American professor spoke about mobile devices with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies. Even tiny amounts of radiation are enough to disrupt the reproductive function of the human body. When you place your laptop on your lap, turn off the wireless adapter.

The radiation from the multicooker cannot be called strong. A typical household appliance, the metal body will greatly weaken the factor. Applies to multicookers with induction heating. Electromagnetic waves are present openly under the pot. Considering the power of the average device is 800 W, the radiation can be harmful to human health. Applies to the case when the multicooker pot is not put in place. True, induction heating of expensive models is parallel to the protection option against switching on in disassembled form. Waves will pass through plastic without difficulty.

Top best multicookers in the mid-price category

When considering the question of which multicooker is the best in the mid-price category, you should pay attention to the multifunctional model Redmond SkyCooker M800S with remote control. The power of the device is 900 W. The device is equipped with a large 5 liter bowl with a ceramic coating. The multicooker can operate in one of 20 modes, including deep frying, pasta, dough, yogurt, and pasteurization. The “multi-cook” function allows you to set the temperature and time yourself. The cost of a multicooker averages 7.9 thousand rubles.

The multifunctional multicooker Philips HD4731-03 has a stylish design. The power of the device is 980 W. A 5 liter bowl with a ceramic coating is heated using a heating element. Uniform heat distribution is ensured by 3D heating. The model has 19 automatic programs and a manual “multi-cook” mode. Additional functions are “delay start” and “heating”. You can buy a multicooker for 7.5 thousand rubles.

The Moulinex MK706A32 multicooker is equipped with the Fuzzy Logic artificial intelligence option.

A good functional model is the Moulinex MK 706A32 multicooker with artificial intelligence in the form of the “Fuzzy logic” system, which allows you to optimize the parameters of the cooking process. The power of the device is 750 W. The bowl has a volume of 5 liters and a non-stick ceramic coating. The multicooker is equipped with 9 modes. Thanks to the timer, you can delay the cooking process for 24 hours. The cost of the model is 5.4 thousand rubles.

When considering the question of which Redmond multicooker to choose, the RMC-M90 model deserves attention. The power of the device is 860 W. The multicooker has 17 automatic programs and a “multi-cook” option, which allows you to independently set the temperature and cooking time of your own dish. The model is equipped with a 5 liter bowl with a handle, which has a ceramic coating. The cost of a multicooker averages 5.2 thousand rubles.

Nutrients

The multicooker retains the maximum amount of nutrients if you use a relatively low cooking temperature. It is believed that a slow cooker, operating at 80 degrees Celsius, is valued by gourmets for its stated feature - providing health benefits.

In the absence of air, the multicooker will preserve vitamins and enzymes. Ultimately, no one is forcing you to purchase products equipped with non-stick pots. For fans of a healthy lifestyle, we recommend multicookers with clay and steel saucepans. The materials have been known for a long time and have shown their best side.

As for recipes, some multicooker models cook porridge wonderfully. In a world full of preservatives, genetically modified products, taste enhancers, it’s nice to find an outlet. Let's look at a couple of healthy slow cooker recipes.

Recipes

Vegetable soup

• Chop cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, green beans with a total weight of 200 grams. Cut a couple of potato tubers into cubes, add salt to taste. Pour into the multicooker, add 1 liter of water. Turn on the “Extinguishing” mode for 1 hour. When serving, sprinkle with dill.
• Cut 5 red onions into rings and fry in 100 ml of vegetable oil in a multicooker under the “Baking” mode. The resulting mass is poured with 1.5 liters of water, seasoned with salt, and simmered for 1 hour. Grate 100 grams of cheese and sprinkle on bread slices, pour cream over each. Bon appetit.
• Place 50 grams of white beans in a slow cooker, add 3 liters of water, simmer for 2 hours. Meanwhile, chop three tomatoes, one onion, and chop 100 grams of white cabbage. Chop 2 potatoes, one carrot, zucchini, and celery root into cubes. Chop parsley and basil. Strain the bean broth and pour it back into the slow cooker. Add 20 ml olive oil. Add onion, carrots, celery, garlic, zucchini, fry in the “Baking” mode. Then season with tomatoes, 20 grams of tomato paste, 50 grams of peas, potatoes, beans, cabbage, 50 grams of pasta. Salt, add pepper, parsley, basil, simmer for 1 hour in a slow cooker. The spilled soup is sprinkled with cheese.

• Wash 50 grams of dried porcini mushrooms, add 1.5 liters of water, and simmer in a slow cooker for 1 hour. Meanwhile, cut a couple of potatoes into cubes, one carrot, and simply chop the onion. Add to the broth, season with herbs, salt, add 100 grams of pasta. Continue to simmer in the slow cooker for one hour. When serving the soup, season it with sour cream.

Types of devices

There are a huge number of types of multicookers.

1. Conventional cooking depends only on the temperature, as well as the natural atmospheric pressure that affects the dish.
2. Multicookers-pressure cookers, which cook a dish using high pressure and temperature.

Moreover, relatively recently multicookers with a removable lid have appeared, which allow you to remove the bowl without opening the lid of the device.

The products inside the device are subject to high pressure and heat treatment.

In the modern world, multicookers with 3D heating are popular; they are not only expensive, but can also heat the device much faster. The advantages of such a device include the following.

1. Cooking is 30% faster.
2. The device will not function if there is no liquid or food inside.
3. Baked goods and meat have a golden brown crust and look more appetizing.
4. Food will cook evenly, no matter where it is placed.
5. After cooking, it immediately turns on the heating mode, which allows you to keep food warm for several more hours.
6. In such a multicooker-pressure cooker, food turns out much tastier than in a conventional appliance.

Conclusion

It is impossible to say whether the multicooker is good for health; the quality is pleasing. To justify ourselves, let's say: in the West, fireproof mattresses were sold that dissolved the internal organs of sleeping people; someone even put such substances in children's toys (sold). Giving preference to clay, stainless steel is difficult to lose. It is advisable to choose a metal case. The remaining properties are determined mainly by the recipe of the dishes. Preference is given to natural products.

Why is a multicooker harmful to health? Today, rather, nothing. The rustle caused by US technology will prevent Teflon manufacturers from playing tricks with perfluorooctanoic acid, no harm is possible. Until polymer degradation blockers are invented, it is assessed as a dubious choice in favor of units due to one non-stick coating.

Is a multicooker harmful to health... Time will tell.

In a short time, multicookers have gained incredible popularity. Such a rapid entry into the hit parade of household appliances did not go unnoticed by manufacturers, and now on store shelves you can find models of this kitchen helper for every taste. But is food cooked in a slow cooker really safe? Let's figure out what the advantages of a multicooker are and what nutritionists say about this method of cooking.

Advantages

Fans of cooking in a multicooker are attracted by the following advantages:

1. Save time. During the cooking process, there is no need to ensure that the dish does not burn; there is no need to stir it or add water. It is enough to prepare the products, put them in the bowl and select the desired mode, the multicooker will do the rest itself. You can easily go on business or just relax while food is being prepared, and on holidays this device will relieve the stress and help you prepare a large variety of dishes.
2. Comfortable use. Selecting a cooking mode is easy. The instructions contain basic recipes with a clear indication of the optimal mode. In addition, the multicooker has a delayed start function, which allows you to cook at the right time and keeps the dish hot for a long time.

The multicooker is convenient, just select the desired mode

The multicooker is compact and easy to store

Flaws

Consumers know enough about the benefits of a multicooker, because manufacturers do not forget to advertise new models and position this device only on the positive side. But during operation it turns out that multicookers also have disadvantages:

1. One cycle - one dish. If you cook all dishes only in a slow cooker, then you need to start making lunch in the morning. In one cycle, you can cook only one dish, in contrast to the stove, where both the first and the second are cooked at the same time, and baking is done in the oven. In addition, the bowl will have to be emptied to prepare the next recipe. To simplify the task, you can purchase another bowl for the multicooker, but this will entail additional material costs.
2. Functionality as a disadvantage. Like all multifunctional appliances, the multicooker is inferior to specialized models. For example, it is more convenient to constantly prepare yogurt in a yogurt maker. If the menu is dominated by steamed dishes, it is better to purchase a steamer. Baking from the oven tastes better. A slow cooker will not produce a fragrant crust, although biscuits and casseroles will never burn.

Differences between pressure cookers and multi-cookers

A pressure cooker has many differences from multicookers.

1. The presence of modes that allow you to cook not only soups.
2. Reducing cooking time several times.
3. You can program the cooking time.
4. A pressure cooker has a higher cost.
5. A multi-pressure cooker can save not only your time, but also energy.

Thanks to high pressure and steam processing of products, dishes are prepared two or even three times faster.

Food from a slow cooker - benefit or harm?

As you can see, the multicooker has the same number of pros and cons. Each housewife decides for herself whether it is advisable to purchase this household appliance. But the decisive question becomes about the benefits and harms of a device such as a multicooker for human health.

The operating principle of the multicooker is based on tightness during cooking. Inside the device with the lid closed, the temperature rises to 400°C. For comparison, in a frying pan when cooking on the stove, the average temperature range is about 100-150°C, and the maximum value is 200°C. Teflon coating releases perfluorooctanoic acid at high temperatures, which can cause cancer.

The health hazard of a multicooker increases if:

• the bowl has been in use for more than five years;
• Mechanical damage appeared on the Teflon coating.

Damaged Teflon coating

To determine whether a regular slow cooker is harmful to health, laboratory tests were conducted. They showed a direct correlation between the appearance of cancerous tumors in people who frequently or incorrectly use this device.

What malfunctions and breakdowns may occur?

There are several problems that often cause owners of multi-pressure cookers to panic.

1. The unit does not turn on. To make sure there is a breakdown, you should pay attention to whether the plug is plugged into the socket and whether there is electricity in the house; if everything is in order, then the problem may be inside the device. The reason for this may be improper operation of the device, a problem in the wiring, or the thermostat has malfunctioned.
2. Indications that an error occurred when turning on the unit.

• E0 – there was a break in the temperature sensor wire or the lid was not closed tightly;
• E1 – contact relays are clogged or moisture has entered the unit;
• E2 – wires are broken or a short circuit has occurred;
• E3 – there is moisture inside or the bowl is missing inside the device;
• E4 – the sensor is clogged or the microcircuit is damaged;
• E5 – automatic shutdown of the system or overheating of the unit;

Error codes in a multicooker.

1. There are problems with the timer.
2. The cover of the device has become faulty.
3. The valve through which steam escapes is clogged.
4. You have selected the wrong device operating mode.
5. The bowl is deformed, this may be due to a collision with something heavy or improper use, or due to a defect.
6. System shutdown due to overload.
7. Unit overheating.

How to avoid the harmful effects of a multicooker?

In order for the multicooker to bring only benefits, you must follow the rules for using the bowl for cooking:

• Carefully care for the Teflon surface: do not use metal utensils for stirring food, clean only with dishwashing detergents without abrasive particles;
• change the bowl every 5 years - this is the period allotted by manufacturers for the use of Teflon surfaces;
• Do not use a bowl with damaged Teflon coating.

When purchasing, you should choose models no older than 2000, since it was from that moment that manufacturers were required to declare the composition of Teflon and the materials from which multicookers were made. Do not buy devices second-hand, as well as models that do not have accompanying documentation and certificates.

According to professionals, not only the bowl, but also other elements of the multicooker require care: the bottom, the inner surface of the lid, the moisture collector, the steam valve. Clean the device thoroughly after each cooking, wipe all parts dry and do not forget to ventilate to avoid unpleasant odors or the appearance of pathogenic flora.

Teflon coating requires careful care

Expert advice

1. With the help of multicookers, you can prepare any culinary delights, spending a minimum of effort and time. All you need is to prepare the ingredients and choose the appropriate mode. In this regard, even users who have no experience in cooking will be able to cope with cooking;
2. Numerous controversies surrounding the devices raise doubts among consumers about the need for a purchase. Although, with proper careful handling, there are no negative consequences from use, and housewives receive only advantages from the purchase;
3. In order not to endanger your health, it is not recommended to buy equipment second-hand, without accompanying documents and certificates; preference should be given to newer and improved models.

Watch the video about whether to buy a multicooker

Nutritionists about cooking in a slow cooker

Basically, the opinion of nutritionists about dishes prepared in a slow cooker is positive:

• cooking requires less fat and oil;
• during the cooking process, the consumption of spices and table salt is minimal;
• food is heated more evenly.

Multicooker food contains less salt and fat

Food from a multicooker is healthier than dishes prepared on the stove, but nutritionists also recommend strictly monitoring the integrity of the Teflon coating and replacing it at the slightest damage.

A multicooker should be used with caution for preparing children's menu items, and for children under three years of age, nutritionists advise excluding food from this appliance altogether.

Adults should not get carried away with food from a slow cooker. Choose recipes that don't require a long cooking time to avoid overheating the bowl. Use the multicooker from time to time when there is a real need for it.

In the traditional way, food is prepared on the stove for the elderly. Food from a slow cooker can be harmful, as the risk of cancer increases with age.

Food from a multicooker will be beneficial if you follow the instructions for using the device

Careful care and proper operation of kitchen appliances become the key to human health. Take care of your assistant to avoid potential health hazards and get only positive emotions from cooking in a slow cooker.

The multicooker quickly gained popularity. Today such equipment is present in almost every home. However, many housewives are concerned about the question: is a multicooker harmful to human health? You can immediately give a definite answer - this is a safe technique, but only if the operating conditions are observed. If used incorrectly, any equipment, including a multicooker, can cause harm to the human body.

Choosing a multicooker: which company is better

Today, a large number of manufacturers of household appliances compete with each other for the title of the best. In pursuit of leadership and consumer preference, specialists are expanding functionality, changing the appearance of models and the materials of component elements. Which company is better to buy a multicooker? The most popular manufacturers are Moulinex, Redmond, Polaris, Philips and Tefal.

The French brand Moulinex is part of the largest concern Group SEB. Despite the limited range of multicookers, the equipment is distinguished by high quality components, assembly, reliability, durability and expanded functionality. The company produces premium models. Cooking is carried out at a high level thanks to the presence of three-stage heating, which ensures comprehensive heating, creating a fast and high-quality process.

When considering the question of which company to choose a multicooker with a harmonious combination of price and quality, you should pay attention to models from the global brand Philips. The equipment is made from high-quality materials on modern equipment using innovative technologies. The models are characterized by standard functionality and stylish design. The multicooker bowl can have a volume of 2.5-8 liters. The container is available with Teflon or ceramic internal coating. The models are equipped with an airtight lid and a removable valve, which allows the dish to simmer or, conversely, fry.

Philips appliances are of high quality and durability.

Tefal multicookers are distinguished by high quality, practicality, functionality and durability. The power of the devices can be 750-1200 W. The main difference between the models is the voluminous inner bowl with Teflon coating with a maximum volume of 8 liters.

Can a slow cooker harm your health?

The bowl in which the product is directly prepared has a special non-stick coating. It is usually made of Teflon. The coating eliminates the possibility of food burning. However, at high temperatures, acid is released from the material, which has a toxic effect on the body. Harm from this acid occurs when the permissible acid content in the human body is exceeded. This includes the risk of developing cancer.

For reference! Teflon has several unique characteristics, making it optimal for creating a non-stick coating. In its normal form it is not harmful to humans. But, as it is used, it wears out and enters the body, which entails health risks. Do not use cookware with damaged Teflon coating for cooking.

In order to minimize the negative impact of Teflon on the body, the following measures have been taken:

• minimizing the thickness of the non-stick coating layer;
• exclusion of harmful impurities from the production process;
• compliance with recommended temperature conditions during the cooking process.

A multicooker will be safe not only if the non-stick layer of the bowl is of high quality, but also if the impact of electromagnetic waves on the body is minimized. Any electrical devices study such waves. This is true for phones, computers, microwave ovens, electric kettles and even ordinary sockets.

But, manufacturers use special technologies to reduce the negative impact on humans and the environment. First of all, a metal body is used for this, due to which the waves do not extend beyond the device. Electromagnetic waves affect food, but it does not spoil it. Waves appear and disappear inside the device; this does not make food harmful. Moreover, due to the design of the bowl, the waves have virtually no effect on the food at all.

Note! The multicooker body must be completely sealed. If the structure is damaged, use of the device is prohibited. A housing with defects cannot fully retain electromagnetic waves. As a result, they will constantly affect people nearby. Including a damaged body, the quality of food deteriorates.

The safety characteristics of each model are indicated in the technical data sheet for the device. The instructions also list operating recommendations that must be followed to avoid negative effects. Manufacturers minimize the amount of harmful materials, trying to improve the taste and biological properties of food.

Principle of operation

Cooking is carried out according to the selected program, which indicates the period of time after which the food will be ready:

1. After selecting the program, the multicooker is started by pressing the button on the control panel.
2. Place the ingredients in the pan according to the recipe. After switching on, it carries out the program, sequentially going through all stages of preparation.
3. The heating element heats the pan to a certain temperature and pressure, which are specified in the settings, the timer turns on, and the achieved parameters are saved for the specified time.
4. If a delay is specified in the settings, the multicooker beeps, which indicates that you need to stir or add something, for example, a program for cooking pasta that needs to be placed in boiling water.

Once the cooking time has expired, a signal sounds to switch off.

How to avoid the harmful effects of a multicooker

To eliminate the harmful effects of a multicooker on the body, you must follow these tips:

1. Prefer products exclusively from well-known, reliable manufacturers. The equipment must be of high quality, meeting current international standards. Don't try to save as much as possible. Cheap technology uses plastic that emits harmful substances and transmits electromagnetic waves. You need to give preference to equipment from proven brands. Such equipment will be guaranteed to be of high quality and safe for health.
2. Proper care of the device. To wash the bowl, you must use only suitable materials and detergents. Teflon is easily damaged when using metal spatulas, etc. Harsh powders can also scratch the surface. If scratches and other defects have formed on the non-stick layer, you cannot continue to use such a bowl. The condition of other parts should also be constantly monitored. For example, the design has a special valve to allow steam to escape. Due to its malfunction or clogging, the operating mode is disrupted. All equipment components must be serviced in a timely manner.
3. Made from quality ingredients. If food contains harmful chemicals, they will remain in the finished food after cooking. For example, vegetables often contain a lot of pesticides, and meat often contains antibiotics. Choose only high-quality food products that have been tested by the relevant services.

Thus, depending on the specifics of use, a multicooker can bring not only benefits, but also harm to the human body. Therefore, it is extremely important to comply with all safety requirements and choose only high-quality equipment and food products. If you follow the manufacturer's recommendations and timely care for the multicooker, the prepared food will only provide benefits to the body.

How to choose a secure device

When choosing a device, it is important to select high-quality models. The bowl coating can be Teflon or ceramic. The second option has greater heat resistance, but it is not recommended to wash such a bowl in the dishwasher.

If a budget option is chosen, then the buyer should be prepared to change the bowl, since the Teflon coating does not last long.

It is better to choose a model with a safety system that will not allow you to open the lid until steam has escaped or the pressure has subsided. This will protect you from getting burns. The presence of a removable lid will make maintenance easier; it can be removed and washed under running water.

The products of leading companies are not only of good quality, but also have a sufficient number of components in case of replacement of any parts.