Pyrex is a popular glassware brand known for its use in baking and food preparation. It is a common choice for oven use, but what about the stove? In this article, we’ll provide clear and concise information on whether it’s safe to heat Pyrex on the stove, catering to both technical and non-technical readers.
Understanding Pyrex
Pyrex is a type of borosilicate glass that is known for its durability and resistance to temperature changes. It is commonly used for baking, cooking, and food storage. Pyrex glassware is designed to withstand high temperatures and is considered safe for use in ovens and microwaves.
Heating Pyrex on the Stove
While Pyrex is known for its heat resistance, using it directly on a stovetop is not recommended. Here’s why:
Direct Heat: Stovetops can produce intense, direct heat, which can cause rapid temperature changes. Pyrex is less tolerant of such rapid changes compared to borosilicate glass, which it once used to be made of. Most modern Pyrex is now made of soda-lime glass, which is not as heat-resistant as borosilicate.
Risk of Shattering: Subjecting Pyrex to direct stovetop heat can lead to the glass shattering due to thermal shock. Thermal shock occurs when there is a significant and sudden temperature difference between different parts of the glass.
Cookware Alternatives: For stovetop cooking, it is safer to use cookware specifically designed for stovetop use, such as stainless steel, cast iron, or non-stick pans.
Safe Uses for Pyrex
Pyrex is still a versatile and valuable kitchen tool when used correctly. It is safe for:
Baking: Pyrex dishes are designed for baking in the oven. They can handle the high, even heat produced by an oven without the risk of shattering.
Microwaving: Pyrex is microwave-safe and can be used for heating and reheating food in the microwave.
Food Storage: Pyrex containers are suitable for storing food in the refrigerator or freezer.
Serving: You can use Pyrex dishes for serving dishes like casseroles, salads, or desserts.
Conclusion
While Pyrex is a durable and versatile kitchen tool, it is not suitable for direct use on a stovetop. Attempting to heat Pyrex on the stove can lead to the glass shattering due to thermal shock. To prevent accidents and damage to your glassware, it’s important to use Pyrex as intended: for baking, microwaving, food storage, and serving. When it comes to stovetop cooking, it’s safer to choose cookware designed for that purpose, ensuring both your safety and the longevity of your kitchen equipment.