Silver residue on handle

[timtamtim078]

I use this cast iron pan almost every day but I just noticed a strange silvery substance on the handle. I usually keep a cover on the grip to protect my hands and I only found the mess when the cover slipped off today. This shiny material rubs off on my skin whether the pan is cold or hot although it seems much worse when it is warm. It does not act like old paint and it seems to spread easily whenever I touch that part of the pan. I am worried about whether this residue is safe to have in my kitchen or if it might be some kind of metallic coating that is breaking down. I would appreciate any help identifying what this stuff is and how I should go about cleaning it off. And if anyone recognizes the maker or the age of this piece I would love to hear those details as well.

 

[mimic ^^]

I use this cast iron pan almost every day but I just noticed a strange silvery substance on the handle. I usually keep a cover on the grip to protect my hands and I only found the mess when the cover slipped off today. This shiny material rubs off on my skin whether the pan is cold or hot although it seems much worse when it is warm. It does not act like old paint and it seems to spread easily whenever I touch that part of the pan. I am worried about whether this residue is safe to have in my kitchen or if it might be some kind of metallic coating that is breaking down. I would appreciate any help identifying what this stuff is and how I should go about cleaning it off. And if anyone recognizes the maker or the age of this piece I would love to hear those details as well.

It seems you are dealing with oxidation. Does the material rub off easily? You can scrub the handle with steel wool or a stiff brush, wash thoroughly and re-season it with oil.

 

[tiptiptoe]

I agree with @mimic ^^! It could be residue from an old surface coating instead of paint, because cast iron handles sometimes form a shiny layer when heat and moisture build up under a cover that traps condensation.