[calljack]

I have heard that if you put a teflon pan on the stove and really overheat it, to the point that it is burning up, it will release enough toxic crap to kill birds you may have in your house. Any truth to this or is it an urban legend??

[UCANSEE2]

If you put your coffemaker on the stove burner, and set fire to it, it will kill everyone in the house.

[Katya]

I remember that too...I have one teflon pan which is quite oversized and easy to clean, but I could just as easily go back to using a seasoned iron pan.

[Fzob]

I have heard that if you put a teflon pan on the stove and really overheat it, to the point that it is burning up, it will release enough toxic crap to kill birds you may have in your house. Any truth to this or is it an urban legend??

That is absolutely true. I worked for many years in a PTFE manufacturing plant. Burning PTFE emits very toxic gases. It releases Phosgene, PFIB, and other assorted nasties. Unlikely to kill an person, but it could pose a heath hazard.

Google "Fluon Fever"

[tiredoflaundry]

I have not used teflon pans in years because of my birds.

[steveo]

I have two parrots, a Lilac Amazon and a Grey. I've used teflon pans in the eight years I've had them, no problem. Care for parrots is more folklore than science. Want proof? Look up feather picking and you'll find dozens upon dozens of theories on why it happens and how to cure it, based on nothing but guesses.