Are Zojirushi Rice Cookers Toxic? What the Inner Pan Is Made Of
Quick answer: Zojirushi rice cookers are considered safe for normal use, but their Micom models use a non-stick coated inner pan. For the NS-LGC05 line Zojirushi describes the coating as a fluoropolymer, the same family as PTFE (Teflon), which belongs to the wider PFAS group of chemicals. If you want a coating-free pot, choose stainless steel or clay instead.
Last updated: November 1, 2026. Specifications come from manufacturer and retailer listings, which vary by model and region. We have not tested these products ourselves.
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What are Zojirushi inner pans made of?
| Model | What we know |
|---|---|
| NS-LGC05 / NS-LGC05XB | Zojirushi describes a "Rinse OK" non-stick coated inner pan, and its blog says the coating is a fluoropolymer |
| NS-TSC10 and NS-ZCC10 | Retail descriptions say non-stick, but Zojirushi does not publish the coating chemistry |
| NS-RPC10 | A conventional cooker. Check the manual for the pan details |
| Other models | Pan material varies, and one review lists an induction model as uncoated stainless, so check the exact model |
See our reviews: NS-LGC05XB, NS-TSC10, NS-ZCC10 and NS-RPC10.
Is the coating safe?
Regulators such as the US FDA consider PTFE-coated cookware safe for normal use. The main cautions are never running a non-stick pot empty, since overheated PTFE can release fumes that harm pet birds, replacing a pan whose coating flakes, and using plastic or wooden utensils. Details are in our guide Is Teflon coating harmful to health?
What about PFAS?
PTFE is a fluoropolymer and falls within the broad PFAS category. Some people prefer to limit PFAS in their kitchen for precaution. A retailer listing for the NS-LGC05 also notes it is made with PFAS chemicals.
If you want to avoid a non-stick coating
- Stainless steel pots: Aroma Simply Stainless or Buffalo IH cookers, see our Buffalo review.
- Clay: VitaClay VM7900-8.
- Ceramic-coated pots avoid PTFE but are still coated. See ceramic vs Teflon.
More options in our best non-toxic rice cookers guide.
Should you still buy a Zojirushi?
If you want top rice quality and are comfortable with a non-stick pan, yes, many people are. If avoiding coatings is your priority, pick a stainless or clay cooker. Compare in our best rice cooker picks.
Frequently asked questions
Are Zojirushi rice cookers safe?
Yes for normal use. Follow the manual, never run the cooker empty and replace a damaged pan.
Do Zojirushi rice cookers have Teflon?
Their Micom models use a non-stick fluoropolymer coating. PTFE (Teflon) is a fluoropolymer, but check Zojirushi for the exact coating on your model.
Does Zojirushi make a stainless steel rice cooker?
One review lists an induction model as uncoated stainless, but sources conflict, so check the exact model before buying.
Is the coating safe for birds?
Overheated PTFE can harm pet birds. A rice cooker cooking rice stays well below the temperatures involved, but keep birds away from non-stick cookware that may overheat.
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