Safe And Sustainable: A Guide To Choosing Non-Toxic Dinnerware For Your Family

Non-toxic dinnerware is an important consideration for any household, especially those with young children. Many plates, bowls, mugs, and cups contain heavy metals, such as lead and cadmium, which can leach into food and drinks and cause serious health issues. Other compounds commonly found in dinnerware include BPA, phthalates, and melamine, which have been linked to various health problems.

To ensure the safety of your family and guests, it is crucial to choose dinnerware made from non-toxic materials. Some of the safest options include glass, porcelain, stoneware, stainless steel, bamboo, and wood. When shopping for dinnerware, look for products that are labelled as lead-free, cadmium-free, non-toxic, or food-safe. It is also advisable to choose dinnerware manufactured in the USA, as it adheres to stricter safety standards.

Some recommended brands that offer non-toxic dinnerware include Corelle, Edge Stoneware, Public Goods, Material Kitchen, Anchor Hocking, Fiesta, Gibson Home, Made Trade, Uncommon Goods, Etsy, Earth Hero, Artful Home, Pottery Barn, Stone Lain, Le Creuset, Bamboozle, Amazon Basics, Coconut Shell Bowls, US Acrylic, and The Little Market. These brands offer stylish and functional dinnerware made from materials like stoneware, porcelain, bamboo, and glass, which are free from harmful chemicals and safe for everyday use.

In addition to choosing non-toxic dinnerware, it is also important to follow certain practices to minimise the risk of toxin exposure. Avoid using vintage or antique dinnerware, especially those manufactured before 1970, as they are more likely to contain lead. Do not store food in glazed containers, especially acidic foods, as they can accelerate leaching. Limit the use of microwaves and dishwashers with glazed dinnerware, as the heat can cause leaching. Instead, opt for handwashing whenever possible.

Stainless steel dinnerware

When choosing stainless steel dinnerware, it is important to opt for food-grade or medical-grade stainless steel, which is safe for food or medical applications. Food-grade stainless steel includes the 400 series (430), 300 series (304, 316), and 200 series. The most commonly used food-grade option is 304, which comes in two types: 18/10 and 18/8. These numbers indicate the percentage of chromium and nickel in the stainless steel, with 18/10 containing more nickel and being more corrosion-resistant.

Some manufacturers may label their products as 18/10 when they only contain slightly more than 8% nickel. While 18/10 stainless steel is preferable, both types of 304 stainless steel are generally considered safe for dinnerware.

When purchasing stainless steel dinnerware, it is also important to ensure that it is made without harmful chemicals such as BPA, PVC, phthalates, lead, siloxanes, melamine, and formaldehyde.

• Ahimsa offers a range of pediatrician-designed dishes that are backed by a lifetime warranty. Their products are made from food-grade stainless steel, are dishwasher-safe, and are free of harmful chemicals.
• CleanPlanetware offers a 16-piece family pack of stainless steel dinnerware, including plates, bowls, and cups. This set is made from food-grade stainless steel, is dishwasher-safe, and is resistant to stains and rust.
• Kiddobloom Children Stainless Steel Dinnerware Set includes a bowl, cup, and dinner tray made from 304 stainless steel (18/8). It is dishwasher-safe and has received the Mom's Choice Award.
• Innobaby Din Din Smart Stainless Divided Platter is a dinner tray made from 304 stainless steel (18/10) that is top-rack dishwasher-safe. Innobaby also offers a complete line of stainless steel toddler feeding products, including cups, bowls, and silverware.
• HaWare Metal 304 Dinner Dishes for Kids Toddlers Children is a set of dinner plates made from 304 stainless steel (18/8) with a matte polished finish. They are dishwasher-safe and suitable for both children and toddlers. HaWare also offers stainless steel bowls and utensils for kids.

Vitrified glass dinnerware

When choosing vitrified glass dinnerware, look for options that are manufactured in the USA and stick to clear or white dishes to minimise the risk of contamination. Some popular brands that offer vitrified glass dinnerware include Corelle, Duralex, and Anchor Hocking.

Corelle, for example, offers a range of vitrified glass dinnerware that is lightweight, chip-resistant, and safe to use in the oven, microwave, and dishwasher. Their products are made from triple-layer glass and come in various colours and designs, including their popular Winter Frost White collection.

Duralex is another great option for vitrified glass dinnerware. They offer lead and cadmium-free plates and bowls in classic designs that are perfect for everyday use.

Anchor Hocking is an American-made glassware brand that uses high-quality, sustainable materials and conscious processes. Their products are free of lead, cadmium, and other heavy metals, making them a safe choice for your family.

When choosing vitrified glass dinnerware, it is important to read the labels and product descriptions carefully. Look for statements such as "lead-free", "cadmium-free", "non-toxic", or "food-safe" to ensure that the products meet safety standards. It is also recommended to choose well-known and reputable brands that prioritise safety and quality.

Ceramic dinnerware

Understanding the Risks:

Ceramics, including porcelain and china, often contain glaze, which gives them a shiny finish and vibrant colours. However, the glaze can sometimes contain heavy metals like lead and cadmium, which can leach into food and drinks. These metals pose serious health risks, especially for children, so it's crucial to choose lead-free and cadmium-free options.

Tips for Choosing Non-Toxic Ceramic Dinnerware:

• Look for products that are certified lead-free and made with non-toxic glazes.
• Opt for plain white or clear ceramic dishes, as colourful glazes may contain harmful substances.
• Avoid vintage or antique ceramic dinnerware, especially pieces manufactured before 1970, when lead content in ceramics was not regulated.
• Choose products manufactured in the USA, as they adhere to stricter safety standards.
• Look for brands that provide testing documentation and are transparent about their manufacturing processes.

Recommended Brands:

• Fable: Offers a range of eco-friendly dinnerware crafted from organic bamboo, non-GMO corn starch, and food-grade melamine. Their products are dishwasher-safe and stylish, with a vibrant glaze.
• East Fork: A Certified B Corporation that creates lead-free ceramic dinnerware in Asheville, North Carolina. Their products are dishwasher and microwave-safe, and they prioritise sustainability and ethical practices.
• Year & Day: Features a collection of ceramic dinnerware with classic silhouettes and semi-matte finishes. You can mix and match colours to create a table setting you love.
• Wolf Ceramics: Offers custom dinnerware sets, allowing you to build your own set with pieces like salad plates, cereal bowls, and dinner plates.
• Studio Roslyn: A Canadian brand that offers hand-finished stoneware essentials crafted with recycled and locally sourced clay from Portugal. Their products are dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe.

When choosing ceramic dinnerware, always prioritise safety and opt for trusted brands that provide transparency about their materials and manufacturing processes. By selecting non-toxic options, you can enjoy your meals with peace of mind, knowing that your dinnerware is free from harmful substances.

Porcelain dinnerware

Porcelain is often referred to as "fine china" and is used more for formal dining or special occasions. It is known for its milky white appearance and ability to be moulded into different dinnerware.

Porcelain is generally safe for human health, but it is important to be aware of the glaze used to create its smooth, shiny finish. These glazes often contain heavy metals such as lead, which can leach into food and drinks. While lead is a naturally occurring element, it can be toxic to humans and cause lead poisoning if consumed in high enough quantities.

To avoid this, choose porcelain dinnerware that is explicitly labelled as "lead-free" and "non-toxic". It is also recommended to stick to plain white porcelain, as colourful decorations may contain harmful chemicals.

Bamboo dinnerware

Eco-Friendliness and Sustainability:

Bamboo is an incredibly eco-friendly and sustainable resource. As one of the fastest-growing plants in the world, bamboo requires very little water and no fertilisers or pesticides to thrive. By choosing bamboo dinnerware, you're reducing the demand for virgin materials and preserving natural habitats. Additionally, the manufacturing process for bamboo tableware is often energy-efficient, further reducing carbon emissions. Some bamboo tableware, such as those from Ekobo, is made from upcycled bamboo sawdust, a byproduct of the chopstick and flooring industry, taking advantage of a waste stream and giving it new life.

Non-Toxic and Safe:

Durability and Lightweight:

Aesthetic Appeal:

Care and Maintenance:

When it comes to caring for your bamboo dinnerware, it's important to note that it is generally not microwave or oven-safe due to the risk of fire. However, bamboo tableware is usually dishwasher-safe, making clean-up a breeze. To prolong the life of your bamboo dinnerware, it's recommended to treat it with care and avoid excessive scraping or rough handling, as bamboo can still chip or break if not handled properly.

Frequently asked questions