# Why is food sticking to my Circulon nonstick pan?

>  Quick Answer   Food sticks most commonly due to cooking spray residue buildup cooking on too high heat insufficient oil or a pan that needs reseasoning I

Source: https://support.circulon.com/en_us/why-is-food-sticking-to-my-circulon-nonstick-pan-H1fJQI21fg

Last updated: 2026-05-22T16:52:36.588Z

**⚡ Quick Answer**  Food sticks most commonly due to cooking spray residue buildup, cooking on too high heat, insufficient oil, or a pan that needs re-seasoning. Identify the cause and address it before replacing the pan.

Work through these common causes in order:

*   1\. Cooking spray buildup: The most frequent cause. Aerosol sprays deposit lecithin residue in the grooves that builds up over time. Deep clean the pan using the baking soda paste method and stop using cooking spray.
    
*   2\. Heat too high: Reduce to medium or medium-low. High heat causes food proteins to bond to the surface before the nonstick can release them.
    
*   3\. Not preheated: Add 1–2 minutes of preheating on medium before adding food or oil.
    
*   4\. Insufficient oil or fat: Add a small amount of butter or oil before cooking.
    
*   5\. Pan needs re-seasoning: Follow the seasoning steps — condition the surface with a thin coat of oil heated to the shimmer point.
    
*   6\. Coating is worn: If re-seasoning and proper technique don’t fix the sticking, the nonstick may be at end of life. Check if still within warranty.
    

**💡 Pro Tips**

*   Deep clean monthly to remove cooking oil polymerization build-up, which is different from burnt food but similarly causes sticking
    
*   Always preheat the empty pan first, then add oil, then add food — this sequence prevents sticking
    
*   Let proteins like chicken and fish release naturally — if they stick when you try to flip, give it another 30 seconds
    

**🔗 Related Articles**

→  How do I season a Circulon pan?

→  How do I remove buildup from my pan?

→  How long does Circulon cookware last?