After finding out from numerous sources that hard, black plastic cooking utensils are made from recycled material - which could mean everything including the kitchen sink - can be quite toxic. Spatulas in particular were mentioned because the front end is in contact with high heat and can degrade and even melt a little over time, transferring that material into the food you’re cooking and then right into you. I really don’t want computer guts in MY gut! Sooo, these spatulas are perfect to cook with. Silicone on the front end is made to withstand much higher heat, then the strength of the metal is there. So, the pan is safe, the spatula is safe, making us safe. Get a few, or a lot and share! Happy cooking?