From a quick glance across the classroom during lunch time, we can see that most kids are using reusable plastic food containers. But have we ever thought if those are really safe for our kids? Studies have shown that some lunch boxes made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or vinyl may contain lead or phthalates. Rigid plastic water bottles and sippy cups may contain bisphenol A (BPA) or PVC. We should always avoid using any plastic material for food packaging, specially hot food. Since plastic lunch boxes release some kind of chemicals, when kept in contact with hot food, according to the latest research these chemicals increases the chances of cancer and various diseases. For a child this is more harmful than an adult person.
What to look for in a lunchbox –
- BPA-Free – The lunch box should be safe to store food inside.
- Stay Fresh – A box that will seal and keep an unwrapped item fresh
- Easy to Clean – I prefer one lid for the lunch box, easy to clean and store when drying
- Sections – Separate spaces to place different foods
Here are some much better alternatives for both your family’s health and the planet’s well-being:
- Stainless Steel – Stainless steel is a great food container option because it’s antibacterial and doesn’t leach chemicals. Many companies are manufacturing attractive steel lunch box.
- LunchBots – It makes a divided stainless steel container that’s available in one, two, three, and four compartment options as well as condiment cups. Just be sure to look for the all stainless versions instead of those with the plastic lids.
- PlanetBox – This range of stainless-steel lunch kits has a cult following thanks to its tiny snack compartments, insulated carrying cases and cute little magnets to stick on the front.
Just because a container is made of hard, non-plastic material doesn’t mean it is made of stainless steel. For example, some stores sell enamel lunch boxes which, when in good condition, are actually considered safe. However, if the porcelain-coating on an enamel lunchbox gets chips or cracks, toxic heavy metals may leach into the food. Be also aware of all kinds of aluminium containers. Many of them are not suitable for storing any kind of food, and those that do have a ‘for food use’ label may come with a BPA-containing plastic liner.