What is Silicone?

It seems to be everywhere: in the bright tip of a spatula, in a vast array of shaped bakeware, in flexible steamer inserts, and in a little gadget that will make poached eggs super-easy. I'm referring, of course, to silicone, the new-ish wonder material that has taken over the kitchenware industry. But what is it, exactly? Read the definition of silicone, its chemical makeup, its properties, and why it's so useful in kitchenware products.