Tillie Doyle
Non-toxic dinner plates are an important consideration for anyone wanting to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals such as BPA, BPS, BPF, phthalates, formaldehyde, lead and cadmium. These chemicals can be found in plastic, traditional ceramic, bamboo and even vintage china plates.
Non-toxic dinner plates are typically made from glass, stainless steel, bamboo, or specific types of ceramic and porcelain.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Glass, stainless steel, bamboo, ceramic, porcelain, stoneware, paper, plastic, silicone, wood |
| Pros | Easy to clean, lightweight, durable, eco-friendly, colourful, versatile, recyclable, shatterproof, unbreakable, chip-resistant, stackable, microwave-safe, oven-safe, freezer-safe, dishwasher-safe, non-toxic, BPA-free, lead-free, cadmium-free, heavy metal-free, FDA-compliant, affordable |
| Cons | Heavy, fragile, prone to cracking, prone to chipping, not oven-safe, not microwave-safe, not dishwasher-safe, not freezer-safe, not recyclable, prone to water spots, prone to stains, prone to odours, expensive |
Glass Plates
Glass dinnerware is a safe and stylish choice for your dining table. Glass is inherently safe as it does not contain harmful chemicals like lead, cadmium, BPA, or phthalates. It is also non-reactive, protecting the flavour of your food. Glass dinnerware is easy to clean and typically dishwasher-safe. It is also 100% recyclable and will not lose value after recycling, unlike plastic.
However, glass dinnerware does have some drawbacks. Non-tempered glass can break or chip easily if dropped, which may be an issue in households with children or pets. Additionally, sudden temperature changes can crack or shatter certain types of glass. Glass is also heavier than other materials, which might be cumbersome for daily use or when serving children.
When choosing glass dinnerware, opt for borosilicate glass over the more common soda-lime glass. Borosilicate glass is more robust and can handle hot and cold food without cracking. Tempered glass, such as Corelle's Vitrelle line, offers excellent durability against drops and temperature changes.
- Anchor Hocking: Made in the USA, Anchor Hocking uses thick tempered glass that is lead-free and exceeds safety standards. They offer a range of glass dishware, including plates, cups, baking dishes, and storage containers. Their products are microwave and dishwasher-safe, though not oven-safe.
- Corelle: Corelle's US-made Vitrelle dinnerware features a unique three-layer glass laminate, resulting in thin, lightweight, and shatterproof dishes. All modern Corelle dinnerware is lead-safe and third-party tested to ensure safety. Their range includes dinner plate and bowl sets, catering to various styles and designs. Corelle dinnerware is dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe up to 350°F.
- Duralex: Duralex offers a wide range of kitchen staples, including glass mixing bowls, plates, cups, and wine glasses. Their products are durable, free of heavy metals, and made in France.
- Libbey: Libbey makes lead-free glasses that are durable and come in various shapes and sizes. Their plain, clear, unpainted glassware is a safe option.
When choosing glass dinnerware, look for brands that are transparent about their manufacturing processes and use safe, high-quality materials. Prioritize plain, undecorated options as bright colours may contain lead or cadmium unless the brand uses certified lead-free colouring.
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Ceramic Plates
Materials and Manufacturing:
Health and Safety:
One of the critical concerns with ceramic plates is the presence of toxic chemicals, such as lead and cadmium, especially in the glaze. These chemicals can leach into food, posing health risks. To ensure the safety of your ceramic plates, choose brands that prioritise health and use lead-free and cadmium-free glazes. Reputable companies will advertise their products as "lead-free" and "third-party tested." It is also advisable to stick with modern ceramics from well-known brands, as older dinnerware may not adhere to the same safety standards.
Design and Functionality:
Sustainability:
When investing in ceramic plates, opt for brands that prioritise sustainability and ethical practices. Some companies work with local artisans, engage in community initiatives, or use eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. By supporting these brands, you can contribute to a more sustainable and socially responsible industry.
Recommended Brands:
Several brands offer high-quality, non-toxic ceramic plates:
- Emerson Creek Pottery: Handmade stoneware plates crafted in Virginia, USA, that are lead-free, cadmium-free, chip-resistant, and safe for microwave, oven, and dishwasher use.
- East Fork: Handmade ceramic plates crafted in Asheville, North Carolina, using locally sourced clay.
- Hawkins New York: Stylish and functional plates manufactured in Portugal, offering durability and affordability.
- Our Place: Stackable ceramic plates made from natural clay, with a focus on space-saving design and functionality.
- Material: Ceramic plates handcrafted from Korean soil, with a commitment to quality and giving back to the community.
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Stoneware Plates
Stoneware is one of the safest non-toxic dinnerware materials. It is fired at high temperatures, making it less porous and very durable. Stoneware is usually considered a safer option than earthenware because it is fired at higher temperatures, making it stronger and more durable.
Edge Stoneware Plates Collection
Designed in Germany, the Edge Stoneware series is a European-inspired collection with clean lines. Their dinnerware features an inner glazing made with heavy-metal-free materials that are stackable for easy storage. Their dishware includes bowls, plates, serveware, serving platters, and mugs. Edge stoneware is a high-quality investment, made from natural materials. These dishes are made of eco-friendly materials and fired at high temperatures, making them a sustainable dinnerware option.
Kyoto Ceramic Stoneware Plates Collection
The Kyoto Ceramic Stoneware Plates Collection is another option for non-toxic stoneware dinner plates. These plates are crafted from ceramic stoneware, a type of ceramic that is fired at high temperatures, making it less porous and more durable.
Stone Lain Stoneware Dinnerware Set
The Stone Lain Stoneware Dinnerware Set is a delightful addition to any dining table. The matte black finish gives it a contemporary look, while the stoneware construction ensures durability. Each piece feels substantial and exudes quality. The 16-piece set includes dinner plates, salad plates, bowls, and mugs, catering to most dining needs.
Gibson Home Dinnerware
The Gibson Home Zen Buffet Porcelain Dinnerware Set is a timeless and elegant collection. The set serves six and includes dinner plates, dessert plates, bowls, salad bowls, and mugs. Made from AB-grade porcelain, the set is BPA-free and heat-resistant, making it perfect for daily use.
Corelle Dinnerware
The Corelle Dinnerware set is made with triple-layer strong glass, promising durability and functionality. The patterns are part of the dinnerware, ensuring they won't scratch, wear, or fade. This makes them perfect for everyday use or special occasions. The stackability saves valuable kitchen space. Corelle dinnerware is also lightweight and elegant, suitable for those who prefer lightweight dishware.
Public Goods Ceramic Dinner Plates
Public Goods offers a set of four ceramic dinner plates with a minimalistic and timeless design. The curved edges make these plates beautiful and functional, as they prevent food from sliding off. These plates are microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, freezer-safe, and oven-safe up to 350°F. They are made in a factory that uses co-generation technology to repurpose heat, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
Year & Day The Core Set
Year & Day's The Core Set offers a foundational collection of dinnerware designed for modern dining, with a commitment to ethical production and sustainable materials. These high-quality ceramic plates are free from lead, cadmium, and other heavy metals, ensuring safety and durability. The set includes big bowls, small bowls, big plates, and small plates, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal for everyday use or special occasions.
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Bamboo Plates
However, not all bamboo plates are created equal. Some lower-quality bamboo plates may contain harmful substances such as formaldehyde and melamine, which can be released into food if the plate is heated. Therefore, it is important to choose bamboo plates that are melamine-free and do not need to be heated, such as by using a microwave.
- Bobo&Boo: Their bamboo plates are non-toxic, BPA-free, and dishwasher-safe. They come in a set of four plates with classic colours that both children and adults can enjoy.
- Bibol: These plates are handcrafted in Vietnam using locally sourced bamboo trimmings, cashew tree resin, and marble powder lacquer. They are melamine-free, stylish, and come in various designs.
- Eco Matters: Their bamboo snack cups are unique, safe, and convenient for both children and adults. They are also dishwasher- and microwave-safe.
- Avanchy: Avanchy's bamboo plates feature silicone suction bases and divided sections, making them ideal for toddlers and young children. While they cannot be used in the dishwasher or microwave, they are free of plastic, melamine, and other harmful substances.
When choosing bamboo plates, it is important to look for strong and smooth plates made from high-quality bamboo without any rough edges or imperfections. Fun and functional designs, such as plates with sections, can also make mealtimes more enjoyable for children. It is also crucial to choose a safe brand by reading reviews and opting for brands known for their quality and safety standards.
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Stainless Steel Plates
When choosing stainless steel dinnerware, look for food-grade or medical-grade stainless steel, which is safe for food or medical applications. The most commonly used food-grade stainless steel is 304, which comes in two types: 18/10 and 18/8, indicating the percentage of chromium and nickel, respectively. Nickel helps stainless steel be more resistant to corrosion, so a higher percentage will result in higher corrosion resistance.
- HaWare 4-Piece 18/8 Stainless Steel Plates: These plates are made of food-grade 304 stainless steel and are 9 inches in diameter. They are lightweight, shatterproof, and dishwasher-safe.
- E-far Stainless Steel Plates: These plates are also made of food-grade 304 stainless steel and are 8 inches in diameter. They are unbreakable, stackable, and have smooth edges with no rough spots.
- Innobaby Din Din Smart Stainless Divided Platter: This plate is made of food-grade 304 stainless steel and is top-rack dishwasher-safe. It has three compartments and measures 9.5 x 6.3 inches.
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Frequently asked questions
The proven toxic materials in dinnerware are lead and cadmium. Lead is often used in the glazes or decorations on ceramic dinnerware, and cadmium is used to add bright colours. These chemicals can leach into food and pose serious health risks, especially to pregnant women and children.
The FDA recommends avoiding handmade dinnerware with a crude appearance or irregular shape, damaged or excessively worn dinnerware, and brightly coloured dinnerware in orange, red, or yellow, as these are colours that often contain lead. It is also best to avoid vintage dinnerware, especially if manufactured before 1970.
Some non-toxic dinnerware brands include Corelle, Anchor Hocking, Fiesta, Lenox, HF Coors, Ohio Stoneware, and Bennington Potters. These brands offer dinnerware made from materials such as glass, porcelain, stoneware, or ceramic that are free from lead, cadmium, and other heavy metals.
When shopping for dinnerware, look for products that are labelled as lead-free or lead-safe and adhere to FDA or California's Proposition 65 standards. Avoid products with decorative glazes, and opt for simpler designs in clear or white colours. You can also purchase a lead testing kit to test your current dinnerware.
To maintain the integrity and safety of your non-toxic dinnerware, follow the manufacturer's care instructions. For example, some non-toxic dinnerware is dishwasher and microwave safe, while others may require handwashing to prevent damage or cracking. Avoid using damaged dinnerware and replace it if necessary.
