Most cookware pieces that advertise “nonstick” performance use a coating of certain chemicals. These include synthetic chemicals like PTFE. These chemicals are ostensibly non-toxic. But ingesting them is still not a good idea.
Furthermore, chemical nonstick coatings can wear down over time. This can happen either by using metal utensils or by putting the cookware in the dishwasher.Therefore, the nonstick effect can diminish over several years.All Clad’s starburst finish is a different type of nonstick solution. The manufacturer sands down the stainless steel surface layer at the end of production. This makes it difficult for food particles to get stuck in the stainless steel layer.
That being said, the starburst nonstick finish can still diminish over time. You have to be careful not to use metal utensils with your All Clad copper core cookware. You should also not throw these dishes in the dishwasher if possible.