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The clear film peeling off your pan is likely a non-stick coating, commonly known as Teflon. Teflon is a brand name for polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a synthetic fluoropolymer. While Teflon coatings are generally considered safe for cooking, they can release potentially toxic fumes if they are overheated or subjected to high temperatures.

Under normal cooking conditions, Teflon coatings are stable and do not pose a significant health risk. However, if the coating becomes scratched, damaged, or reaches extremely high temperatures (above 500°F/260°C), it can release toxic fumes known as polymer fume fever. This can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and respiratory irritation.

In your case, if you did not observe any peeling or flaking of the non-stick coating in your pasta, it is unlikely that any significant amount of the coating was ingested. However, it's always a good idea to exercise caution and avoid consuming any food that has come into direct contact with damaged or visibly deteriorated non-stick coatings.

To prevent such incidents in the future, make sure to use cookware that is in good condition, avoid using metal utensils that can scratch the coating, and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding temperature limits and cleaning methods for your specific pan.

If you have concerns or experience any symptoms after accidentally consuming food that may have come into contact with damaged non-stick coatings, it is best to consult a medical professional for personalized advice.

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