The most-asked questions about our cookware ranges. For brand-specific FAQ see the individual product pages and our blog articles linked below.
What is enamel?
Enamel is a material made by fusing powdered glass to a steel substrate by firing in a kiln, usually at 750–850 °C. The result is a vitreous (glass) coating bonded to the metal core — food-safe, non-reactive, easy to clean, and durable.
Is New World Enamel dishwasher, oven, and freezer safe?
Yes — dishwasher, oven (up to 200 °C), and freezer safe. The decoration is preserved within the enamel layer and will not wash off. Not microwave safe (metal core).
Can I use enamelware on a campfire or open fire?
Yes. Enamel mugs and saucepans are designed for camping and open-fire use. The enamel-on-steel construction handles direct flame without warping.
Can I use enamel pots on an induction cooker?
Yes. Enamel-on-steel is naturally magnetic and works on induction.
Why does my enamelware have small black spots or imperfections?
New World Enamel is individually handmade and kiln-fired. Small black spots, minor surface scratches, and slight pattern misalignment are normal characteristics of the handmade firing process and do not affect use, safety, or longevity.
Is enamelware food safe?
Yes. The vitreous glass coating is a completely neutral surface — it doesn’t react with acidic food and contains no harmful ingredients.
How do I clean enamelware?
Sponge and washing liquid — dishwasher safe. Don’t use steel wool or scourers. For difficult stains, soak with hot water + baking soda.
Is aluminium cookware safe? Does it cause Alzheimer’s?
Yes, aluminium cookware is safe. The Alzheimer’s link is a myth from a 1965 rabbit study that has been disproven. EFSA and the UN’s International Programme on Chemical Safety have both confirmed normal aluminium cookware use does not cause Alzheimer’s. EFSA’s Tolerable Weekly Intake for aluminium is 1 mg per kg of body weight — typical cooking stays well below this. See our full aluminium safety FAQ.
How do I cook pap without burning?
Use a heavy-bottomed pot (aluminium 2 mm+, or cast iron), bring water to a rolling boil first, then reduce to low heat before adding maize meal. Use the South African cutting motion (not vigorous stirring). Cover and simmer 20 minutes. See our pap cooking guide.
How does Bon Voyage compare to Hart cookware?
Bon Voyage is the heavy-duty catering specialist (8–100 L range, 99.9% pure aluminium, 1.8–4 mm walls). Hart is the household consumer brand. See our Bon Voyage vs Hart Pots comparison for side-by-side specs and verified Takealot reviews.
How do I season a new potjie pot?
Wash with hot water (no soap), dry over heat, rub a thin layer of neutral vegetable oil on all surfaces, place upside down in an oven at 200 °C for one hour. Allow to cool, wipe off excess oil. Repeat 2–3 times. See our potjie care guide for the full procedure plus rust recovery.
What size potjie pot do I need?
Most SA households use No. 2 (6–8 people) or No. 3 (10–12). Braai clubs run No. 6 (20–25). Catering operators use No. 10 (40–50) or larger. Big5 Cookware makes all standard SA sizes from No. 1/4 to No. 25.
What’s the difference between bare cast iron (Bon Voyage) and enamelled cast iron (La Cocina)?
Bare cast iron must be seasoned before first use; the polymerised oil patina is what makes it non-stick. Enamelled cast iron has a vitreous glass coating — no seasoning required, ready to cook with from the box. Both are induction compatible and oven safe.
Is Tiger stainless steel cookware induction compatible?
Yes. The Tiger 29-piece stainless steel range has an encapsulated thick magnetic base — induction compatible. The Tiger marble-coated non-stick range is aluminium-based and not induction compatible.
Is the Tiger marble non-stick coating safe?
Yes. Tiger marble coating is PFOA-free. Avoid metal utensils; use silicone, wood, or nylon utensils. Do not heat empty pans on high heat.
Do you deliver across South Africa?
Yes. Free delivery anywhere in South Africa on orders over R 800; R 99 flat fee under R 800. Major metros 2–3 working days; smaller towns 3–7 working days. Logistics handled by Bob Go. See our shipping page for details.
How do I enquire about wholesale pricing?
Email supplier@big5cookware.co.za or visit our wholesale page. Wholesale available across all 9 South African provinces.
I'm happy it will serve the purpose for which it was bought, thanks...
I love them. Uhh the handles are so beautiful 😍.
This product was not available and i recommend to the store to mark sold out/out store to avoid processing purchases that will not be delivered.
Good quality and affordable, it’s for my VIP😀
