Are Aluminium Pots Making a Comeback? We Spoke to 5 Nigerians & Here's What They Think

There have been discussions on whether non-stick pans are worth the health risks from its scratched coatings. Once they start peeling, they risk releasing Teflon flakes into food and fumes at high heat. Also, they lose their clean, attractive look, which is a turn-off for many home cooks, forcing them to rethink their choices. 

Sure, ceramic, die-cast, and the recently trending clay pots exist. But, for many Nigerians, there’s still the question of cost, as they can be pricey and harder to find locally. That’s why more people are looking back to aluminium pots, the old kitchen workhorse.

We spoke to five Nigerians about their experiences, how aluminium pots compare to non-stick, and whether they would choose aluminium again.

Abigail says aluminium pots “hold up the same” as non-stick in durability, but the flavour seals the deal for her. “Food doesn’t burn in non-stick, but that burn gives a different flavour in aluminium,” she explains. Cleaning can be a bit of a struggle, but she’s quick to point out that non-stick cleaning is tricky, too. Health-wise, she’s wary of overheated Teflon fumes and prefers aluminium’s heat tolerance.
Her pick: Aluminium…especially the “classy” designs that still look good in a modern kitchen.

Favour admits aluminium can sometimes give food a slight metallic flavour, especially with acidic dishes like stew. Still, she finds it manageable with care. Cleaning takes more effort, but she says it’s worth it for longevity. While she’s aware of aluminium getting into the food over time, she thinks non-stick’s peeling coating is worse. “If both cost the same, I’d pick aluminium. It’s authentic, and with proper care, it can last years.”
Her pick: Well-made aluminium pots for everyday Nigerian meals.

For Precious, aluminium’s win is in longevity. “Non-stick only lasts if you buy expensive ones,” she says. She’s never noticed a taste difference when she cooks with both; for her, aluminium is easier to clean. That said, she’s careful with non-stick because once it peels, it’s done. If costs were the same, she’d still lean towards aluminium over a low-quality non-stick.
Her pick: A sturdy aluminium set for struggle-free cooking and maintenance.

Ezinne swears food tastes “100% better” in aluminium pots. She finds them easy to maintain and much safer than non-stick. “Imagine Teflon in your food? No thanks,” she says. She’s not bothered by weight or appearance; health and flavour come first.
Her pick: Aluminium all the way for both health and taste.

Salem doesn’t currently own aluminium pots but believes they’re healthier than Teflon-coated non-stick. She warns that aluminium might require different cooking times and could burn food if you’re not careful. Cleaning can be tough, but for her, the health benefits outweigh the inconvenience.
His pick: Aluminium for health-conscious cooking.

From our conversations, here’s what’s pushing Nigerians back toward aluminium:

• Health worries: Fears about Teflon flakes or fumes from scratched or overheated non-stick pans.
  

• Durability: Aluminium pots can take high heat and last for years if well cared for.
  

• Affordability: They’re far cheaper than ceramic, cast iron, or high-end non-stick sets.
  

• Cooking results: Some say aluminium delivers better taste, especially for stews, soups, and slow-cooked dishes.

If you’re considering moving away from non-stick and giving aluminium a chance, here are quick tips:

• Weigh the pros and cons: Aluminium is affordable and durable, but can be harder to clean.
  

• Watch what you cook: Acidic foods may cause a metallic taste in some aluminium pots.
  

• Health trade-offs: Avoid scratched non-stick pans; peeling Teflon can be dangerous.
  

• Quality matters: Even with aluminium, go for good craftsmanship to avoid quick wear.

If you’re ready to make the switch or upgrade your kitchen, here are two solid picks that balance price, durability, and style:

• Crownstar Cooking Pot Sets

• Tower Alloy Gold Frypan (22cm)

For many Nigerians, aluminium is nostalgic, practical, affordable, and, for many, healthier. While it might not be perfect for every dish, its durability and cooking results keep winning people back.