‘For kids, the damage is even worse:’ This is when you should replace your pressure cooker
Published on: Aug. 29, 2025, 10:30 a.m. | Source: The Indian Express
Based on the advice of orthopaedic Dr. Manan Vora and internal medicine consultant Dr. Aniket Mule, it is crucial to replace your old pressure cooker after about 10 years, or if it shows signs of damage like scratches, black patches, or a loose lid. An old or damaged cooker can leach heavy metals like lead into your food, which is particularly dangerous because lead accumulates in the body over time, affecting bones, blood, and the brain. Symptoms of lead exposure are often vague in adults, including fatigue, memory loss, and mood changes, while in children, the effects are more severe, potentially leading to slowed brain growth and a lower IQ. Although the exact amount of lead released is uncertain, experts warn that even low-level, chronic exposure can be harmful, making it safer to replace worn-out cookware to prevent health issues rather than treating them later.
