To stick or not to stick? That seems to be the question.
Maybe you’ve lost your faith in nonstick cookware. You’ve got too many chipped and worn fry pans in your cupboard.
Enter Scanpan, a premium-quality and pricey cookware brand from Denmark that’s raising the bar for nonstick cookware.
But can this company win our trust back? Let’s take a look at all the Scanpan products I’m reviewing:
- CTX 10-Piece Deluxe Set – Best Scanpan Set
- Classic non-induction set – Most affordable
- Classic Induction Cookware Set – Best Affordable Scanpan Induction set
- CS+ Cookware Set – Best if Available at a good price
- CTP Cookware Set – Best for Oven
- Pro IQ Cookware set – Best Mid-Range(Also on BBBY)
I’ve also reviewed a couple of alternatives to give some contrast:
- GreenPan Valencia Pro Cookware Set – Best Non-Stick Alternative (Also Direct from Manufacturer)
- All-Clad D3 Compact Stainless-Steel – Best Stainless Steel Alternative
See my Scanpan review below for more details.
Contents
So, What’s the Deal With Scanpan?
Before I give my review of Scanpan, let’s take a look at Scanpan as a company.
I’ve heard the word revolutionary used to describe this cookware. But what can we really expect to see when we invest in these Danish cookware sets?
Danish Cookware
Scanpan pots and pans being made in Denmark doesn’t automatically guarantee an increase in quality. Yet if you want to escape the whole “Made in China,” it’s a good start.
It adds a certain je-ne-sais-quoi when you are cooking to say the soup is being cooked in Danish saucepans.
Quality Materials
Most, but not all, Scanpans are made with 5-ply construction; this is important for even heat distribution. It’s also great for durability.
The inner layers help spread the heat, while the outer layers are extra-durable.
Scanpan’s quality even extends to its glass lids which used tempered glass to remain safe for the oven.
Revolutionary Non-Stick Coating
Stratanium, Scan Pan’s patented non-stick coating that’s more resilient than most; it’s metal-tool-safe and extremely durable. Scanpan did two years’ worth of research and testing to make the non-stick coating durable. Scanpan released it in 2017.
What stands out here is that you can sear, brown, braise, and deglaze in these non-stick pans; this is rare in the non-stick world.
There’s no doubt that Scanpan’s non-stick coating is superior to most of the market. It is more durable and seems to offer better food release than I’ve seen elsewhere.
Scanpan then released Stratanium+ as a more professional version of Scanpan nonstick. They say it’s 50 percent more durable against heavy use than regular Stratanium. They tested it in restaurants to ensure professional quality.
Healthy Cookware?
Scanpan claims to be healthier for two reasons. First, you can cook with little to no oil, but many manufacturers claim this.
The other reason is that Scanpan nonstick is PFOS and PFOA-free, but this is also the claim of all nonstick cookware. The EPA has been very clear about the harmful nature of these substances and reputable manufacturers don’t include PFOA since it was banned in 2015.
Like most nonstick cookware, Scanpan cookware contains Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), the active ingredient of Teflon. This non-stick coating is supposed to be safe if not used with extreme heat.
So I would say Scanpan is no healthier than the vast majority of non-stick alternatives out there. (If you want to avoid PTFE, check out my review of the best non-stick non-Teflon pans.)
Dishwasher-Safe Cookware
Scanpan nonstick cookware is both dishwasher-safe, yet is not recommended for dishwasher use.
It’s nice to put “dishwasher-safe” in an ad or on the side of the box. However, you’ll find in the small print Scanpan discourages using the dishwasher with their products. Many customer reviews also disrecommend using a dishwasher.
Some reasons include the discoloration of exterior surfaces, residue at the bottom of the pan, and erosion of the nonstick coating.
I recommend cleaning these pots and pans by hand, but I’m not impressed with the mixed messages from Scanpan.
Superior Manufacturing
Scan Pan cookware is made in a factory. Scanpan adds a human touch with skilled artisans; these artisans inspect each piece of Scanpan cookware eight times throughout the process to ensure high quality pieces.
The result is something pretty special, at least if you believe this video by the manufacturer:
Lifetime Warranty
If you’re a seasoned cookware shopper like I am, or you read lots of reviews, you’ll know to be a little wary here.
It is, like most lifetime warranties, limited. The Scanpan warranty is for pitting, peeling, and surface bubbling due to the manufacturer’s defects. It doesn’t include residue buildup, damage due to propellant sprays, or accidental damage from dropping.
To claim the warranty, you have to pay for the postage, and Scanpan will then decide if you used the product properly.
Posting a pan isn’t cheap so I wouldn’t count much on this warranty.
Environmentally Friendly
Scanpan cookware is made in Denmark, so you can imagine the procedures of production are fairly strict. They say they leave a small carbon footprint from their factory.
Scanpan uses recycled aluminum in its cookware.
Scanpan Reviews
Now let’s look at my Scanpan reviews and see which set is best for you.
Scanpan CTX Review (Best Overall)
The Scanpan CTX 10-Piece Deluxe Set includes:
- A lidded Dutch oven 7.5 quarts (7 liters)
- Two lidded saucepans, 2.75 quarts (2.6 liters) and 2 quarts (1.9 liters)
- A lidded saute pan, size: 10.25 inches (26 centimeters)
- One 10.25 inch (26 cm) frying pan and one 8 inch (20 centimeters) frying pan
There’s also an 11-inch (28-centimeter) Scanpan CTX pan that you can buy separately.
The Scanpan CTX is 5-ply which gives excellent heat distribution and works well on all cooking surfaces, including induction. Customers say there’s no vibration noise on an induction cooktop.
These satin-finished stainless steel pans are attractive in a functional way. Some users complain that it’s difficult to clean the exterior of this cookware but mention that it lasts a long time. Other customers said they were heavy.
The Scanpan CTX is also dishwasher and metal utensil safe. Some customers found that the pans got heat stains on the exterior surface, and they were hard to clean off.
This Scanpan professional cookware set is an excellent choice for chefs and home cooks alike. Of course the quality comes at a price.
Pros
- Non-stick material is long-lasting
- High quality and built
- You can brown, braise, and sear
- Compatible with induction cooktops, and without the common vibration noise
Cons
- A little heavy
- Exterior hard to keep clean
- May get heat stains from a gas stove
- Pricey
Since the set is so expensive, you may just want to get a single fry pan. The solitary Scanpan frying pan is still pricey, but not as much as the whole set!
Scanpan Review: Scanpan Classic: a Classic Induction Cookware Set (Best for Induction on a Budget)
The Scanpan Classic Induction Cookware Set includes:
- 8-inch (20-centimeter) Fry Pan
- 10.25-inch (26-centimeter) Fry Pan
- 2.75-quart (2.6-liter) Covered Sauté Pan
- 2-quart (1.9-liter) Covered Saucepan
- 3.25-quart (3-liter) Covered Saucepan
- 7-quart (6.6-liter) Covered Dutch Oven
All the pots come with a glass lid, the frying pans don’t.
You can also buy a Scanpan Classic Induction Fry Pan separately if you don’t want to invest in a whole set.
The cast aluminum construction distributes heat evenly and quickly. You shouldn’t have any hot spots.
The Scanpan Classic set comes with a Stratanium nonstick surface, which is metal-utensil-safe. A small number of customers reported a black liquid discharge from the coating, while other users thought the nonstick coating wore away. Some users had trouble cooking without oil.
I would always recommend using oil with non-stick, whatever the manufacturer claims.
Scanpan Classic cookware works on all stovetops, including induction cooktops.
The handles of the Scanpan Classic are Bakelite and attached with a rivetless locking system. Customers liked that with no rivets, it was easier to clean.
This Scanpan Classic cookware set is oven-safe, up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius), so it’s great for stovetop to oven cooking.
The lids are interchangeable as long as the pan is the same diameter.
The coating is PFOS and PFOA-free and dishwasher-safe. Scanpan recommend handwashing if you want to keep that mirror-polished finish.
Pros
- Induction compatible
- Dishwasher-safe
- Oven-safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius)
Cons
- Non-stick coating might not last
- You will need some oil to cook
Scanpan Classic non-induction (Most Affordable Scanpan Set)
Scanpan also offer their Scanpan Classic set as a non-induction set. It’s considerably cheaper without the induction compatibility, but supposedly the same set otherwise.
The difference in cost for just being induction compatible is a little odd, yet this non-Induction Scanpan Classic set appears to be identical in appearance and performance as the Induction one.
This set is definitely worth considering if you are after an affordable Scanpan set and don’t want to bother with induction.
If you are really on a budget and just want a fry pan then consider this non-induction Scanpan Classic fry pan.
Scanpan Review: Scanpan CS+ Cookware Set (Great if available)
The Scanpan CS+ Cookware Set is a big deal in this cookware line. It has a big price tag to match. This Scanpan CS+ review will tell you if it’s worth it.
The Scanpan cookware set includes:
- 3 non-stick skillets 8-inch (20-centimeter), 10.25-inch (26-centimeter) 12.5-inch (32-centimeter)
- 3 non-stick Saucepans with lids 2-quart (1.9-liter), 2.75-quart (2.6-liter), and 4-quart (3.8-liter) with glass lids
- A 2.5-quart (2.3-liter) Nonstick Sauté Pan with glass lid
- A 7.5-quart (7-liter) Nonstick Dutch Oven with glass lid
If you want to try out this Scanpan cookware with less spend, you can get a Scanpan CS+ Skillet separately. (Though it’s not exactly cheap, Scanpan skillets rarely are!)
The construction of this Scanpan cookware set is a 5-layer clad-aluminum. It has a brushed stainless-steel exterior. It distributes heat quickly and evenly with decent heat retention.
Some users found the set a little heavy for everyday use. Also, because of the thick materials, there are complaints of the pans can be slow to heat up and cool down. That’s not always a bad thing though.
This Scanpan cookware set has a better quality nonstick coating than the others. It’s called Stratanium+, and they say it’s revolutionary commercial-grade. The surface is micro-textured that promises better release and searing.
Customers liked that it was easy to clean. They also were happy that they could cook without any oil.
The handles are securely riveted stay-cool handles and have a gentle curve for an ergonomic grip. The lids are tempered glass and feature a Bakelite knob.
This Scanpan cookware set is compatible with all cooking surfaces, including induction cooktops. It’s safe for oven use up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius.) It’s dishwasher-safe.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Five-layer clad recycled aluminum
- Revolutionary non-stick coating
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Heavy
- Slow to heat and cool
Scanpan Review: Scanpan CTP Cookware Set (Best for Oven)
The Scanpan CTP Cookware Set includes:
- Two fry pans, 8-inch (20-centimeter) and 10.25-inch (26-centimeter)
- One 10.25-inch (26-centimeter) covered Scanpan saute pan
- Two covered saucepans, 2-quart (1.9-liter), 2.75-quart (2.6-liter)
- One 7.5-quart (7-liter) covered Dutch oven
You can purchase the Scanpan CTP Fry Pan separately if you’d prefer.
The exterior of this Scanpan Pro cookware set is mirror-polished. The pans have a 5-ply construction for professional-grade heat distribution, which users confirm.
All the pots and pans come with a Stratanium nonstick coating, meaning you can use metal utensils, sear, brown, and deglaze.
This set is not induction compatible. You can use it in an oven up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius.)
The handles are metal and massive. Some customers found them too big and heavy.
You can throw it in the dishwasher, but you will probably lose that mirror finish.
Pros
- 5-ply construction
- Great heat distribution
- Oven-safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius)
- Dishwasher-safe
- Scanpan professional cookware
- Stratanium + coating
Cons
- Handles are heavy and long
- Non-induction
Scanpan Review: Scanpan Pro IQ – Best Midrange
The Scanpan Pro IQ cookware set is at the top of their mid range. It still uses Stratanium, not Stratanium plus, but everything else is top quality.
It’s probably most equivalent to the Scanpan CTX cookware set, but it uses a recycled aluminum body, instead of multi-ply stainless steel.
Interestingly, this is one of the few product descriptions that manufacturer still refers to Stratanium as a “ceramic-titanium” compound.
This set includes:
- 9 inch (18cm) frying pan
- 11 inch(28cm) frying pan
- 2 stockpots
- 1 sauté pan
- One colander
Scanpan is on the more expensive end because it offers quality cookware. There’s no doubt this set is above average in terms of quality compared with the market, but I’m not sure the price is quite justified.
I guess this set is for someone who wants a quality non-stick set and prefers aluminum to multi-ply stainless steel.
Pros
- Recycled Aluminum based
- Quality product
Cons
- Pricey for what it offers
- Reports of rusting on stainless steel handle
- Very heavy
If you want to shop around, Bed Bath and Beyond also sell this Scanpan Pro IQ Set:
Alternatives
Now let’s look at some other cookware sets that offer similar products to Scanpan cookware.
GreenPan Valencia Pro Cookware Set (Best Non-Stick Scanpan Alternative)
The GreenPan Valencia Pro Cookware Set offers a different sort of non-stick coating; it’s infused with diamonds. GreenPan’s ceramic nonstick coating is free of PFOA, PFAS, cadmium, and lead. It’s made from sand.
GreenPan says it will never release toxic fumes, even if you accidentally overheated it. Since, unlike Scanpan, this cookware is PTFE-free, I believe them.
Like Scanpan, this cookware is metal utensil safe. You can also sear and brown with this cookware.
It works with all stovetops and is very durable and scratch-resistant.
It’s safe in the oven to 600 degrees Fahrenheit (315 degrees.) The lids to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 degrees Celsius.)
The cookware is safe to go into the dishwasher.
The lids are durable glass, so you can monitor what you’re cooking.
You can also buy a GreenPan Valencia fry pan on its own.
GreenPan also sell their cookware directly.
Scanpan CS+ Cookware Set vs. GreenPan Valencia Pro Cookware Set
Both Scanpan and GreenPan have durable non-stick finishes, and both are okay with metal utensils. Another similarity is that they can both sear and brown meat.
Scanpan has 5-ply construction; this would make it superior when it comes to heat distribution.
The set sizes are similar, but GreenPan has a third fry pan.
GreenPan is a much less expensive product.
GreenPan can go into a hotter oven.
GreenPan is a Belgian company and manufactures in China. Scanpan is Danish and made in Denmark.
GreenPan flaunts its environmental values claiming its pans are good for the environment as they don’t use toxic PFAS. Scanpan uses recycled metal and tries to limit its carbon footprint.
Yet Scanpan uses PTFE, the active ingredient of Teflon, which Greenpan successfully avoids.
When it comes to GreenPan vs ScanPan; GreenPan is the more affordable and Teflon-free product, while ScanPan cookware sets are of superior quality.
All-Clad D3 Compact Stainless-Steel (Best Stainless Steel Scanpan Alternative)
This All-Clad D3 Compact Stainless-Steel and fry pan is another 10-piece set for comparison.
This is a stainless-steel set that isn’t non-stick, so you’ll have to be comfortable cooking without a coating. It has tri-ply construction that has an aluminum core bonded with two layers of stainless steel.
The exterior is polished, stainless-steel and the stainless-steel handles are made for comfort.
This set is compatible with all cooktops, including induction, and is oven and broiler-safe, up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit (315 degrees Celsius).
All-Clad cookware is made in the USA.
Scanpan vs. All-Clad
Scanpan is aluminum coated with non-stick, and All-Clad D3 has a mirror-polished stainless cooking surface, a middle layer of aluminum for heat distribution, and a stainless steel exterior.
All-Clad doesn’t have a nonstick coating. Food might stick a bit, but you can be more sure of toxic-free cooking.
The All-Clad set is stackable, so you can save some valuable cupboard space.
You can put All-Clad into a slightly hotter oven.
All-Clad is made in the USA, and Scanpan is made in Denmark. All Clad has a reputation for very high quality cookware, especially with its stainless steel lines. (All Clad’s non-stick cookware, not reviewed here, does contain PTFE just like Scanpan.)
Scanpan is doing more for the environment by using recycled materials and lowering their carbon footprint. All-Clad isn’t making these claims. But at least these All-Clad pans aren’t non-stick and shouldn’t contain those types of chemicals.
Just because All Clad is stainless steel, it’s almost certain to last longer than non-stick Scanpan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Scanpan fry pan go in oven? Is Scanpan oven safe?
Scanpan claims all their cookware can go in the oven – up to 500°F (260°C). Since it has PTFE, which emits toxic gases above 500°F, keep it well below that temperature.
Don’t forget the oven mitts!
Can you put a Scanpan Dutch oven in the oven?
Scanpan Dutch ovens are safe for oven use, like other Scanpan cookware, up to 500°F (260°C). Be aware, however, that Scanpan don’t make true Dutch ovens; a Scanpan Dutch oven, like this one, is more of a stockpot than anything.
Is Scanpan safer than Teflon?
Don’t be fooled by Scanpan’s ceramic surface. Scanpan cookware lines all contain PTFE, the active ingredient of Teflon. So Scanpan is no more or less safe than Teflon.
Teflon isn’t proven to be dangerous though, and as long as you don’t heat it above 500°F (260°C) there are no known dangers.
Is Stratanium the same as ceramic titanium?
No. Scanpan used to claim their pans had a patented ceramic titanium surface. However they no longer make these claims prominently.I’ve see only a few references to ceramic titanium – fewer than I have in the past.
Stratanium appears to be composed of many layers, some of which are ceramic and have particles. It’s possible and likely these particles are titanium.
However it would be a stretch to call this a ceramic titanium surface. What’s more, Scanpan doesn’t specify what the very top surface is (i.e. the one in contact with your food.) It’s likely to be Teflon or a PTFE compound. It’s definitely not a titanium surface!
My suspicion? The “ceramic-titanium surface” is more of a marketing concept than anything. Both materials sound hard and durable, and likely play some part in the composition of Stratanium.
If you are interested in other “titanium” cookware then check out my titanium pans guide. If you’d like other ceramic pans, visit my list of the best ceramic frying pans.
Can you use metal utensils on Scanpan?
Scanpan claims you can use metal utensils with their cookware products, but I would advise against this.
Scanpan’s Stratanium is more durable than your run of the mill non-stick coatings, but it isn’t invincible. Be safe and use silicone or wood utensils.
Where are Scanpan fry pans made?
Scanpan frying pans, like all Scanpan pots and pans is made in Denmark. This is why it is more expensive than the competition. However, it does appear to make a more durable non-stick, so perhaps the “Made in Denmark” premium is worthwhile.
Can you use olive oil on Scanpan?
Yes, and I would recommend using extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) with Scanpan. Scanpan themselves say there is no need for oil with their pans.
However, I always recommend adding a little EVOO with any frying pan. It makes life easier, especially if cooking sticky foods like eggs.
If you want to avoid fats and oils then consider and air fryer. Yet the Mediterranean diet, regarded widely as a healthy diet, is fully of extra virgin olive oil. Consider that as long as you don’t smoke the oil, it should remain healthy.
How can I make my Scanpan non stick again?
First try cleaning with a chemical solution. Scanpan recommend baking soda, I would suggest Bar Keeper’s friend if that doesn’t work. You need to remove any food residue that could be making the pan sticky.
A quick note here: the pan might look clean, but there could still be a microscopic layer of food clinging to the surface. Cleaning it with chemicals should help remove this layer. Be careful not to clean it with anything that could scratch it though.
If that doesn’t work, then the pan might need replacing. I don’t recommend using non-stick sprays. Once non-stick cookware has genuinely lost its stickiness it probably needs to be thrown out.
Is Scanpan non-stick safe?
Scanpan non-stick cookware is just as safe as any other Teflon non-stick cookware. There is no evidence Teflon is harmful, as long as it is used correctly. Don’t overheat your Scanpan cookware (keep it below 500°F or 260°C), and treat the non-stick surface gently.
Do chefs use Scanpans?
Most chefs use stainless steel cookware as it is robust, can take a beating and they know how to use it without food sticking.
Some chefs do use Scanpan which is one of the most durable non-stick brands. Scanpan has tested its products in restaurants, and Gordon Ramsay has been sighted using Scanpan cookware.
What chefs use, however, isn’t what is necessarily best for the home kitchen. Restaurants often pay a premium for their cookware as it will see a constant, hard use everyday. Home kitchens are just not as busy, so do not always need cookware to be as durable.
On the other hand, buying restaurant quality cookware means you are buying cookware designed to take a beating and last.
Is Scanpan dishwasher safe?
The manufacturer claims that Scanpan is dishwasher safe, however I recommend hand washing as much as possible.
The dishwasher will shorten the life of your Scanpan cookware (as it would any non-stick cookware), so use it only occasionally when you are busy,
How to clean Scanpan cookware?
Scanpan is very easy to clean:
- Rinse in warm water
- Rub a warm soapy sponge over the surface
- Rinse again
- Dry
Any dirt should just fall off the non-stick cooking surface. The exterior may be a bit more work, and in some cases may stain permanently.
What about Scanpan woks?
Scanpan do also make woks, but they aren’t included in normal Scanpan cookware sets as they are a bit specialist. Check out this Scanpan Wok on Amazon if you are interested.
Final Verdict: Which Scan Pan is for you?
In a budgetless world, I’d go with the Scanpan CTX Cookware Set. It’s very durable, not the most expensive Scanpan set, and is even used in some restaurants.
It’s also pretty versatile and performs well, so it’s hard to go wrong with this set. If you have the money and want a premium cookware set, this is a good choice.
To be fully transparent I did use to recommend the Scanpan CS+ Cookware set, but I’ve noticed that it’s a lot harder to get these days. The Scanpan CTX cookware set is just as good.
For those on a stricter budget, I’d recommend the GreenPan Valencia Pro Cookware Set. Mostly you’ll be missing out on even heat distribution. Otherwise, it’s a good set for a more economical price–and Teflon-free!
Or, if you want to shop around:
