In our modern kitchen, it won’t be hard for us to find a variety cookware made with the most technologically advance processes and materials. However, no matter how far engineers go to develop the perfect tools for the professional and home cook, they may never replace the cast iron skillet. One of the problems with using a regular pan is how some portions of food cook faster than other sections. Stainless steel or aluminum pans share hot and cold surface areas. One of the properties of cast iron is its ability to retain heat and distribute it evenly on its surface. That means when you cook with a cast iron skillet, your food will taste better because you won’t be over cooking it in one area and under cooking it in another. Iron is an important mineral in our diets. Our bodies use it to make red blood cells. It is in green leafy vegetables. But many of us don’t get enough of it in our meals. When using a cast iron skillet, you are cooking some of that iron into the food. This is not to say you shouldn’t also supplement your iron needs in other ways, but to say that cooking with a cast iron skillet may have some passive nutritional benefits.

Modern cookware is very attractive and desirable. Quality cookware makes cooking more enjoyable and easier. Quality is expensive, but if you are a good cook, then owning brand name top of the line cookware might be a good personal choice. However, the cast iron skillet performs as well as, if not better than many pans that are more expensive. Cast iron skillets are among the most inexpensive cookware you can buy. For all the benefits that it gives, it is a real bargain. The cast iron skillet has been around longer than many of the cookware we see today. That’s because cooks throughout the ages realize it can’t be beat for the way it cooks food evenly and how inexpensive it is to own and use. If you don’t already own and use a cast iron skillet, then now is the time you try it. Because when you finally do, you’re going to wonder why you hadn’t started sooner.

Safety means to be free from risk or danger in your working environment. To enhance a safe working or cooking environment, keep the walk ways and stair case clear of scrap and debris, ruts, holes and obstructions. Remember always to lean up spills of oil, grease, or other liquid immediately. Don’t procrastinate. But if cleaning could not be effected immediately, be sure to have it covered with absorbent material until proper cleaning is effected. And please keep cleaning materials away from food.

Keep electrical wires out of the way. Coil up cords, extension cords, line, hoses, etc when not in use. Close cupboards and cabinets when not in use. And ensure proper and adequate lighting inside and outside the kitchen. Ensure there is no gas leakage and if there be found any leakage, fix it immediately. With gas leakage, distant ignition is possible as well as inhalation. This affects the nervous system and can lead to asphyxiation. In the case of fire, shut off supply, but if not possible and no risk to surrounding, let it burn out. However, evacuate danger zone.

Check that all thermostats are functional. Oil temperature must be at recommended temperature and fryers must be filled to the correct level, as indicated in the operator’s manual. There is a danger of possible burn in the case of oil splattering, and so, ensure no water presence in the food. Do not rest containers on the edge of the fryers. Avoid hot water spills, it can cause serious burns. Check container temperature before picking up a pot or kettle from the stove and keep flammable materials away from high temperature and open flame.

Remember to switch off fryers, oven, grills etc before cleaning commences. These are potential fire areas. Even a small fire can become dangerous and out of control. And in case of fire out break, do not attempt to use water to put out fire. Use fire extinguisher instead.

Broken glasses must be disposed immediately to prevent injury. Chipped glasses can cause cut and infectious diseases. Always wear rubber soled or safety shoes. This helps to ward off so many dangers.

Never forget all the necessary safety tips you have learnt so far. Clean oil spills and grease on the floor, make the runway free, and observe a careful handling of electrical gadget, hot oil as well as hot water. Keep fire extinguisher nearby and dispose broken glasses. Wears rubber soled shoes or safety shoes.