Which nonstick cookware is better - Scanpan or Swiss Diamond?

Quality nonstick cookware is essential in almost every kitchen. Not all pans are created equal and going through a list of cookware brands may even confuse you a little more. Here we narrow down two of our favourite and most loved nonstick cookware brands: the Scanpan and Swiss Diamond. Scanpan is renowned for being one of the world's leading producers of PFOA-free nonstick cookware. The Swiss Diamond has been proudly hailed as "the Rolls-Royce" of nonstick fry pans by the Wall Street Journal. To start off, let us give you a little insight into how these two successful brands began their journey.

PFOA Free Nonstick European Cookware

Back in 1974 in Sierre, Switzerland, a scientific research company was initially set up to run tests on new materials and cooking surfaces. After decades of thorough research and testing, Swiss Diamond engineers successfully developed a patented nonstick cooking surface reinforced with real diamond crystals that are completely free of potentially harmful PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid) chemicals.  Today, all Swiss Diamond products are manufactured with the cutting edge revolutionary nonstick coating which has been further improved by 30% overall.

Scanpan is a family-owned company based in Ryomgaard, Denmark which started making pressure cookers and were sold on the streets during the 1950s. 60 years later, the same essential techniques used to create the original pressure cooker is used to bring you new and improved cookware. From the first generation of pressure cookers, Scanpan then goes on to develop the first frypan with a combination of titanium and nonstick coating to bring you frypans that are completely free of PFOA as of 2008.

Comparing Swiss Diamond and Scanpan's Nonstick Coating

So you've heard about the two brands and its unique qualities but which cookware range do you see yourself investing in? We've narrowed the best ones to give you a clear comparison.

Swiss Diamond cookware is made from pressure-cast aluminium that offers superb heat distribution without hot spots and warp resistance. Each piece is designed with a flat base that is suitable for use on ceramic, gas, and electric cooktops.

The Swiss Diamond XD line helps achieve great cooking results every time and the secret is behind its nonstick coating. Made of the highest quality nonstick components and reinforced with up to 200,000 real diamond crystals.

The beauty of using diamonds lies in its incredible durability that offers additional strength and longevity as opposed to regular pans in the market (view image above). Diamonds are also better heat conductors, providing excellent heat distribution across the pan's surface. Let's not forget that diamonds also have natural nonstick properties that allow easy release on cookware.

Scanpan has various lines of nonstick cookware but the highest performer would be the Stratanium+ nonstick coating. The Stratanium+ coating is made up of multiple layers of nonstick coating, consisting of small and large hard particles that interlock with thermally sprayed layers to strengthen the nonstick surface (view image below).

The Stratanium+ was developed under the guidance and approval of professional chefs to bring outstanding durability for extended lifespan in a busy kitchen. It also allows for even browning and crisping in comparison to the results of other nonstick coated cookware. The Stratanium+ is present for only two series: Scanpan TechnIQ in aluminium and Scanpan HaptIQ in mirror-polished steel.

Are these nonstick pans healthy to cook with?

Both nonstick pans are completely safe and healthy to cook with thanks to the choice of materials which make up their composition. The Swiss Diamond uses diamonds which are a natural mineral, resulting in safe and healthy cooking. The absence of PFOA, lead, cadmium, or mercury throughout its production process also confirms its healthy status. The handles are firmly attached without rivets preventing bacterial build-up.

Scanpan has evolved its entire nonstick cookware range from the ceramic-titanium Greentek surface into the Stratanium coating. Being the world's leading producers of PFOA-free nonstick cookware guarantees your safety no matter what you cook. Its exceptional releasability also makes cooking easy as you can opt to use little to no oil on the pan for healthier dishes.

While the Swiss Diamond XD and Stratanium+ ranges of cookware are all hard-wearing and can withstand up to 260 degrees, there are slight differences to both of these brands. According to Scanpan, the Stratanium nonstick coating is metal utensil safe. However, for Swiss Diamond, using silicone and nonstick safe utensils over metal utensils is recommended to maintain its optimal function. Overall, these two exceptional lines of cookware are ideal for anyone wanting the highest quality nonstick pans which will last for many years to come.