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Iron Pan

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About the product

Cooking with an Lauha (Iron) Pan is a practice deeply embedded in traditional cooking methods, celebrated not only for its durability and heat distribution properties but also for its health benefits. The use of iron cookware supports dietary iron intake; a trace amount of iron is naturally leached into the food during cooking, contributing to the body's iron requirement. This is particularly beneficial in maintaining healthy blood levels and enhancing overall vitality.

Iron, being a crucial component for the formation of hemoglobin, plays a vital role in transporting oxygen throughout the body, thus supporting energy levels and physical stamina. Cooking in an Iron Pan can be especially advantageous for those needing to boost their iron intake, including vegetarians and vegans, who might not get enough iron from their diet alone.

Furthermore, the high heat tolerance of Iron Pans allows for cooking at higher temperatures without the risk of releasing harmful substances, making it a safer alternative to non-stick cookware coated with synthetic materials. This aspect aligns with the ancient wellness principle of minimizing exposure to potentially toxic substances through natural cooking methods.

Incorporating the use of an Iron Pan in daily cooking routines not only enhances the nutritional profile of meals but also embodies a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the importance of natural materials and traditional cooking techniques in promoting wellbeing.

Context of use

For Wellbeing Capacity

An Iron Pan is a cornerstone in culinary practices focused on enhancing nutritional intake and overall wellbeing. Cooking in an iron pan naturally fortifies food with essential iron, a mineral crucial for maintaining healthy blood levels and boosting energy. This method of cooking not only enriches the flavor of dishes but also contributes to a balanced diet, supporting physical health and vitality. Regular use can help mitigate iron deficiency, making it a valuable tool in any health-conscious kitchen.

Type of Person

This cookware is particularly beneficial for those with a robust constitution and who require a higher iron intake. It's ideal for individuals leading an active lifestyle or those with higher energy demands. However, it might not be suitable for people with certain iron-related health conditions or those who require a restricted iron diet, as the iron leaching into food can be significant.

Type of Location and Season

Iron Pans are versatile and suitable for use in all locations and seasons. However, they are especially beneficial in regions or seasons where fresh, iron-rich foods might be less available. In such scenarios, cooking with an iron pan can compensate for the dietary lack of iron. It is equally effective in all climates, making it a universally beneficial tool for enhancing dietary iron.

Time of Day

The use of an Iron Pan is beneficial at any time of the day, whether for preparing breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It's especially useful for cooking main meals when the body is prepared to absorb nutrients efficiently. There's no specific time constraint for its use, making it a versatile and valuable addition to any kitchen, conducive to healthy eating habits throughout the day.

Tips to use

Begin by seasoning your iron pan with a thin layer of vegetable oil, heating it in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for an hour to create a non-stick surface. For daily use, preheat the pan on a medium flame before adding food, ensuring it is spread in an even layer to promote uniform cooking and caramelization.

Ancient & scientific relevance

Ancient texts and treatises:

  • Ancient text name: Charaka Samhita (approx. 2nd century BCE)
  • Context: A foundational text in Ayurveda, covering a wide range of medical knowledge and practices.
  • Mention of Iron Cookware: Discusses the importance of dietary iron and hints at the use of iron utensils for cooking to enhance the iron content in food, beneficial for maintaining good health and preventing iron-deficiency disorders.

  • Ancient text name: Sushruta Samhita (approx. 3rd century CE)
  • Context: An important text in Ayurvedic medicine, known for its surgical techniques and herbal medicine.
  • Mention of Iron Cookware: Highlights the therapeutic benefits of iron, and implies the use of iron cookware as a means to incorporate this essential mineral into the diet.

  • Ancient text name: Ashtanga Hridayam (approx. 7th century CE)
  • Context: A comprehensive guide to Ayurvedic medical practices.
  • Mention of Iron Cookware: Acknowledges the role of iron in promoting health and vitality, suggesting the use of iron utensils in cooking as a way to naturally supplement iron.

  • Ancient text name: Various Ayurvedic Pharmacopeias and Formularies
  • Context: Compilations of Ayurvedic treatments and recipes, often recommending the use of specific metals in cookware for health benefits.
  • Mention of Iron Cookware: These texts might include references to the use of iron vessels for their health-enhancing properties, particularly in increasing the dietary intake of iron.

Modern Scientific Researches:

Title: REVIEW ON HEALTH IMPACT OF HAZARDOUS AND SAFEST TRADITIONAL COOKWARE WITH AYURVEDIC APPROACH

  • Main author: C. Bansal
  • Date of publishing: 2020
  • Abstract: This review emphasizes the importance of selecting safe cooking utensils, including traditional cookware like cast iron, which can add therapeutic value to cooked food. It contrasts the safety of traditional materials with the hazards of modern cookware sets that release toxic substances.
  • Link to the paper

Title: Iron-containing cookware for the reduction of iron deficiency anemia among children and females of reproductive age in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review

  • Main author: Clark Alves
  • Date of publishing: 2019
  • Abstract: This systematic review summarizes evidence on the effect of iron-containing cookware in reducing iron deficiency and anemia among children and females of reproductive age in low- and middle-income countries, suggesting potential health benefits.
  • Link to the paper

Title: Mineral Migration and Influence of Meal Preparation in Iron Cookware on the Iron Nutritional Status of Vegetarian Students

  • Main author: K. D. Quintaes
  • Date of publishing: 2007
  • Abstract: This study evaluates the migration of iron from iron pans and its impact on the iron status of vegetarians. It found that routine meal preparation in cast-iron cookware can improve the nutritional iron status of vegetarians.
  • Link to the paper

Title: Soapstone utensils may improve iron status in adult women. A preliminary study.

  • Main author: Késia Diego Quintaes
  • Date of publishing: 2011
  • Abstract: This preliminary evaluation found that using soapstone pans, a traditional cookware, substantially improved the iron status of subjects in a relatively short period of time, without any alteration of the diet.
  • Link to the paper

Title: Thermal Natural Convection Analysis of Olive Oil in Different Cookware Materials for Induction Stoves

  • Main author: J. Kastillo
  • Date of publishing: 2017
  • Abstract: This study analyzed temperature and natural convection flow of olive oil in cookware made of different materials including enameled iron, demonstrating that enameled iron is a good choice for induction stoves.
  • Link to the paper

Curation methodology

Our team of Indic experts have meticulously evaluated products available in your area and identified the most authentic ones through a rigorous assessment of trust markers

  • Material Quality: The iron pans selected are made from high-quality iron, ensuring durability and a long lifespan. This involves choosing pans made from pure, heavy-duty iron that can withstand high temperatures and frequent use.
  • Manufacturing Process: Preference is given to iron pans that are crafted through traditional or proven manufacturing processes, which can include forging or casting. This ensures that the pans have a uniform thickness, which is crucial for even heat distribution.
  • Pre-Seasoning: The selected iron pans are either pre-seasoned or have a surface that is conducive to easy seasoning by the user. Pre-seasoning is important for creating a non-stick surface and preventing rust, thereby enhancing the pan's usability and maintenance.
  • Versatility: Selected iron pans are versatile in their use, suitable for a variety of cooking methods including frying, searing, baking, and more. This versatility makes the pan a valuable addition to any kitchen, capable of handling multiple culinary tasks.
  • Ease of Maintenance: The methodology includes selecting pans that are easy to maintain. This involves considerations for how easy the pan is to clean, re-season, and care for over time to ensure it remains in good condition.
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