Review on Rachael Ray Create Delicious Stainless Steel Cookware Set: 10-Piece Pots and Pans with Light Blue Handles by Laura Peterson

ABOUT STAINLESS STEEL COOKWARE IN GENERAL: If you don't want to sear your pot (yes, you can sear stainless steel), I recommend getting at least one Teflon frying pan for things like eggs. Teflon is safe and does not release harmful toxins unless scratched, marred, or cooked at temperatures above 392°F [PTFE pyrolysis has ONLY been found above 200°C (392°F)]. That means you need cookware other than Teflon for things like meat, which is typically cooked above 392°F. This is where stainless steel comes into play. Don't get me wrong, I love my camping cast iron, but cast iron doesn't quite match stainless steel when it comes to ease of cleaning. Also, there are certain foods that you really can't (or shouldn't) cook in cast iron, like something acidic (like tomato sauce). Because of these limitations, if I could just choose a stainless steel skillet or a cast iron skillet for the rest of my culinary career, it would be an easy choice—a stainless steel skillet with no issues. REGARDING THIS SPECIFIC SET: Well, regarding this particular set: If you are a professional or aspiring professional chef: Consider spending a little more for a stainless steel cookware set. The main problem with affordable stainless steel cookware (like this set) is poor even heat transfer. The more expensive laminated stainless steel has better and more even heat transfer. In fact, a 5-layer stainless steel pan has almost as good heat transfer as a copper pan, but unfortunately that costs you money. A 5 piece set (almost identical to this one) with 5 ply stainless steel will set you back about $800. BOTTOM LINE: There's a reason you'll almost exclusively find stainless steel cookware in restaurants, because it's the most versatile and convenient. continuous. If you are not a professional cook: This is a reliable cookware set that will last much longer than its price.**************************** * *** **** ***Please note: Another reviewer who mentions bird safety is misinformed. The manufacturer's warning refers to cookware with a non-stick coating (e.g. Teflon). Stainless steel is 100% bird safe, while Teflon is not.