Induction: never use these materials.

Materials that cannot be used on an induction hob: what to know

If you're thinking about purchasing an induction cooktop, it's important to know that not all materials are suitable for cooking on this surface. Induction cooking uses a magnetic field that directly heats the pans, so to be compatible, they must be ferromagnetic. In this article, we'll explore which materials aren't suitable and how to identify the right ones.

1. Aluminum pots

Aluminum is one of the most common kitchen materials, but unfortunately, it's not suitable for induction cooktops. This is because aluminum is non-magnetic, so it isn't heated by the magnetic field generated by the cooktop. If your pan is made of aluminum, even if it's very light and durable, it won't work on an induction cooktop.

2. Copper pots

While copper is an excellent material for distributing heat evenly, it's not induction-compatible. Copper is not magnetic. Some copper pans may have a stainless steel bottom, making them induction-compatible, but generally speaking, a pan made entirely of copper won't work.

3. Glass or ceramic pots

Although aesthetically pleasing and often used for low-temperature cooking, glass or ceramic cookware is not suitable for induction. They are not magnetic materials, so they cannot be used on induction cooktops.

4. Non-ferromagnetic stainless steel cookware

Stainless steel may be induction-compatible, but not all stainless steel cookware is. Many stainless steel cookware contains non-magnetic alloys, making it incompatible with induction hobs. To check if your cookware is suitable, simply move a magnet over it; if it sticks, the cookware is compatible.

5. Induction symbol on pans: the key to choosing well

If you're unsure whether your pan is compatible, look for the induction symbol on cookware. This symbol, usually a circle with lines inside, indicates that the pan is designed for induction hobs. If you don't see this symbol, the pan may not be suitable or hasn't been tested for induction.

Conclusions

When it comes to cooking on an induction hob, choosing the right material is crucial. Avoid aluminum, copper, glass, and ceramic pans, and make sure stainless steel pans are ferromagnetic by checking for the induction symbol. This way, you'll get the most out of your induction hob and cook efficiently and safely.