Aluminum is anodized when the metal is placed in a bath of electrolytes that is then electrically charged. The anodization process creates a hard, durable layer on the surface of the metal, which prevents it from reacting with and leeching into foods cooked in the pan. Anodized aluminum skillets are durable, stronger than stainless steel, and do not pit like uncoated aluminum skillets do. In the FDA Consumer, Dale Blumenthal writes that the FDA, in 1986, determined that it "has no information at this time that the normal dietary intake of aluminum, whether from naturally occurring levels in food, the use of aluminum cookware, or from aluminum food additives or drugs, is harmful." More recently, in 2007, the Canadian government website Health Canada claims that anodyzed aluminum is safe, and points out that the World Health Organization estimates that adults can consume more than 50 milligrams of aluminum daily without harm.

On the Other: Anodized Aluminum May Have Risks

In the past, aluminum was linked Alzheimer's disease. Studies have since shown that there is no connection between the metal and the disease. Dr. Andrew Weil advises that aluminum in the body can cause kidney and bone problems. He suggests not cooking with anodized skillets, because he believes aluminum can leach into food and then into the body if the skillet is scratched. Mark Jala, the "Cookware Helper," recommends avoiding anodized aluminum if you want to reduce your exposure to metals. He cautions that foods cooked in anodized aluminum absorb minute amounts of the metal, and he feels that the cumulative buildup of the metal is potentially harmful.

Bottom Line

Anodized skillets are not bad for you. The anodization process prevents the metal from leeching into food, except in very tiny amounts (35 micrograms). It is generally accepted that the anodized layer on the skillet's surface strengthens the pan, makes it non-reactive, and eliminates the safety concerns associated with uncoated aluminum.

Source:

Your Cookware Helper: Is Anodized Aluminum Safe?

Dr. Weil: Anxious About Anodized Aluminum?

Canada Health: The Safe Use of Cookware

More Information:

Is that Newfangled Cookware Safe?