Are you sick and tired of worrying about finding truly safer food storage containers? It's tough to tell what's what, even when they're labeled as “BPA-free plastic” these days…
We've spent the last 8 years researching and updating our list of storage systems that are made with materials that have long-standing safety records, like glass, stainless steel, silicone, polypropylene and polyethylene. We've been careful to confirm that no BPA-based colorants are used in any of the plastic components too.
So what's the big deal with chemicals in plastic? There's a nasty set of endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) that are comprised of synthetic chemicals that mimic or block hormones and disrupt the body’s normal functions. This disruption can alter normal hormone levels, stopping or stimulating the production of hormones, or changing the way hormones travel through the body, thus affecting the functions that these hormones control.
It's frustrating on one hand to know that there are no regulations governing these gender-bending chemicals in our products that come in contact with our food. But it's also amazing at this point in time to sit back and look over the sheer number of safer food storage options!
P.S. Take a minute to learn more about decoding the mystery of safer vs toxic plastic in our extensive guide
Safer Food Storage Container Guide
We're 100% positive you'll find the perfect non-toxic dishes and food storage containers from trustworthy companies like EcoLunchbox, Lunchbots, Thinkbaby, Abeego, Wean Green, Kinderville and more to fit your needs perfectly.
And don't forget to check back often, as we'll continue to update our list as we come across more safer food storage containers!
167 comments
what is the story with tupperware is it bpa free and pvc free i have the newer stuff from this year and last year
Hi Rachel,
Some Tupperware products are still made with polycarbonate plastic (containing BPA). They make it very clear that they see no issue with using it and have plans to continue doing so. At least they now have a list of products and the type plastic used posted on their website now. You can cross-check it before purchasing any Tupperware products here.
Hope that helps,
Alicia
Hi Willowsprite,
Glad you like it!
No, we most likely won’t be carrying all of the products listed. We’ll pick our very favorites (and would love to hear yours too), because we have limited warehouse space with the other 40+ brands we sell now 🙂
Alicia
Thank you so much for this post!
And the pics, those are super helpful!
You’re very welcome, Multi-Tasking Mommy! We’re thrilled to hear you found it helpful 🙂
Alicia
Hi Rachel,
Some Tupperware products are still made with polycarbonate plastic (containing BPA). They make it very clear that they see no issue with using it and have plans to continue doing so. At least they now have a list of products and the type plastic used posted on their website now. You can cross-check it before purchasing any Tupperware products here.
Hope that helps,
Alicia
TW has always been phthalate free, and has been BPA free since 2010. Only certain micro products and a few others ever contained BPA, but now it is all BPA-free.
Hi Willowsprite,
Glad you like it!
No, we most likely won’t be carrying all of the products listed. We’ll pick our very favorites (and would love to hear yours too), because we have limited warehouse space with the other 40+ brands we sell now 🙂
Alicia
Thank you so much for this post!
And the pics, those are super helpful!
You’re very welcome, Multi-Tasking Mommy! We’re thrilled to hear you found it helpful 🙂
Alicia
We don’t seem to have that much variety here in Canada. We have Anchor, Pyrex, Corelle, Corningware and Thermos, though. I would love to have the Snapware glasslock! They look perfect for leftovers.
We don’t seem to have that much variety here in Canada. We have Anchor, Pyrex, Corelle, Corningware and Thermos, though. I would love to have the Snapware glasslock! They look perfect for leftovers.
Thanks for the info.! It is really good to know that I already own something that is free of all the chemicals.
Does anyone have any recommendations on a blender/processor/hand held blender I can use for making baby food? I obviously want something that is BPA, PVC, and phthalate free. But also I don’t want to spend more than $50 for it.
Thanks.
Thanks for the info.! It is really good to know that I already own something that is free of all the chemicals.
Does anyone have any recommendations on a blender/processor/hand held blender I can use for making baby food? I obviously want something that is BPA, PVC, and phthalate free. But also I don’t want to spend more than $50 for it.
Thanks.
Thanks for a very informative post. I’ve been wanting to convert my plastic storage to glass. It’s been a slow process. I just recently came across some Anchor container on special and got those. Now I have a better idea of my options.
Thanks for a very informative post. I’ve been wanting to convert my plastic storage to glass. It’s been a slow process. I just recently came across some Anchor container on special and got those. Now I have a better idea of my options.
Hi Fiona,
You’re welcome! We’re just getting started on food processors and will be writing an article with our findings soon.
Alicia
That sounds great Alicia. I have not had much luck, and when I call some of these companies about it, they have no idea what I’m talking about.
When do you think the article might be ready? Just wondering cause I will start baby food with my son in less than a month.
Thanks.
That sounds great Alicia. I have not had much luck, and when I call some of these companies about it, they have no idea what I’m talking about.
When do you think the article might be ready? Just wondering cause I will start baby food with my son in less than a month.
Thanks.
Hi Fiona,
You’re welcome! We’re just getting started on food processors and will be writing an article with our findings soon.
Alicia
Thanks so much for sharing those! Now that I have my cookware replaced w/ non toxic stuff, I’m working on my food storage. What a great reference!
Thanks so much for sharing those! Now that I have my cookware replaced w/ non toxic stuff, I’m working on my food storage. What a great reference!
The Aladdin products are fantastic. I recommend them.
The Aladdin products are fantastic. I recommend them.
Perhaps I missed it, but in addition to this excellent posting, I would also find it invaluable to have a review of testing results on plastic water bottles. We currently consume all our water from Poland Spring which now comes packaged in an “eco-shaped” bottle containing 30% less plastic… and that’s great for the environment… but is there anything being done about testing and reducing PVCs from leeching into the water itself.
Perhaps I missed it, but in addition to this excellent posting, I would also find it invaluable to have a review of testing results on plastic water bottles. We currently consume all our water from Poland Spring which now comes packaged in an “eco-shaped” bottle containing 30% less plastic… and that’s great for the environment… but is there anything being done about testing and reducing PVCs from leeching into the water itself.
Pyrex as you know do glass containers. I just received some today and the lids are PBA free. Worth noting. Great website by the way.
Pyrex as you know do glass containers. I just received some today and the lids are PBA free. Worth noting. Great website by the way.
What do you know about Rubbermaid stuff? I ‘ve been using them because they’re BPA free but not sure about phthalates and PVC?
Thanks for the list.
What do you know about Rubbermaid stuff? I ‘ve been using them because they’re BPA free but not sure about phthalates and PVC?
Thanks for the list.
Hi Jen,
We posted some info and a link to Rubbermaid’s website where they offer a list of all their BPA-free products. You can find it here.
Alicia
I purchased some Tell Fresh containers, and I’ve been really happy with them. They have great sizes for lunch boxes and home storage.
I purchased some Tell Fresh containers, and I’ve been really happy with them. They have great sizes for lunch boxes and home storage.
The Anchor Glass containers with plastic lids listed above…the lids are made of plastic #7 (which my understanding contains BPA).
Hi Dorene,
The Anchor Hocking company confirmed that all of their lids are BPA-free. We use their products (including the ones pictured above) and all are even marked as such on the packaging. None of ours are labeled as #7 either.
Also, not all plastics marked with the recycling code #7 contains BPA. Recycling codes should only be used as general guidelines, not a cut and dried ingredient labeling system. You can learn more about that here.
Best,
Alicia
The Anchor Glass containers with plastic lids listed above…the lids are made of plastic #7 (which my understanding contains BPA).
Hi Dorene,
The Anchor Hocking company confirmed that all of their lids are BPA-free. We use their products (including the ones pictured above) and all are even marked as such on the packaging. None of ours are labeled as #7 either.
Also, not all plastics marked with the recycling code #7 contains BPA. Recycling codes should only be used as general guidelines, not a cut and dried ingredient labeling system. You can learn more about that here.
Best,
Alicia
Was this a recent change, because our Anchor lids all are coded #7
Was this a recent change, because our Anchor lids all are coded #7
HOW SAFE ARE LOCK N LOCK CONTAINERS MFG.D
IN ARIZONA…SOLD BY QVC SHOPPING CHANNEL 25
COX CABLE……SAN DIEGO, CA.
this is correct email
HOW SAFE ARE LOCK N LOCK CONTAINERS MFG.D
IN ARIZONA…SOLD BY QVC SHOPPING CHANNEL 25
COX CABLE……SAN DIEGO, CA.
this is correct email
I just bought some a stainless steel bowl set from Walmart . It is part of their Mainstays line. I bought them because they have plastic covers and can be used for food storage.The plastic covers have no code or numbers or letters or anything on them. They are cloudy white and somewhat flexible. They are giving off a “plasticy” smell that worries me. Is PVC still used in these items? I want to store highly acidic food like tomato sauce in them. What to do? I can’t seem to win here, its hard to know whats what.
I just bought some a stainless steel bowl set from Walmart . It is part of their Mainstays line. I bought them because they have plastic covers and can be used for food storage.The plastic covers have no code or numbers or letters or anything on them. They are cloudy white and somewhat flexible. They are giving off a “plasticy” smell that worries me. Is PVC still used in these items? I want to store highly acidic food like tomato sauce in them. What to do? I can’t seem to win here, its hard to know whats what.
Thank you for all of this information. I really appreciate the great resource you supply!
Thank you for all of this information. I really appreciate the great resource you supply!
I just want to say thank you so much. I’m about to start making my son’s baby food and only have the glass containers, so it’s good to find safe plastic containers that I can freeze! Great resource all around! Looking forward to exploring the site more!
I just want to say thank you so much. I’m about to start making my son’s baby food and only have the glass containers, so it’s good to find safe plastic containers that I can freeze! Great resource all around! Looking forward to exploring the site more!
Hi can anyone tell me if the Stay-Fresh Baby Food Containers 12-Pack are BPA free? I’ve read that they are a little sturdier than the baby food cubes and I want to purchase one or both of the sets but I want to make sure that the Stay-Fresh containers are safe. Thank you and I absolutely LOVE this website! Thanks for all the information!
Hi can anyone tell me if the Stay-Fresh Baby Food Containers 12-Pack are BPA free? I’ve read that they are a little sturdier than the baby food cubes and I want to purchase one or both of the sets but I want to make sure that the Stay-Fresh containers are safe. Thank you and I absolutely LOVE this website! Thanks for all the information!
Which storage containers would you recommend for ease of storing them in a small cupboard? We would like to buy a big set of glass or perhaps stainless steel storage containers (or ceramic for that matter) but we don't want 20 different sizes with a plethora of hard to match lids. Is there any sets out there where we could buy a uniform set (so we'd only have one type of lid) and they would nest or stack so we can store them in our small pantry?
I am interested in freezing some pear and apple sauce for my baby. I did purchase the freezer safe ball jelly jars in 4, 6, and 8 oz. Then I found out the bottom of the lids contain BPA. There are BPA free plastic screw top lids that fit these jars. Does anyone know if the use of these “freezer safe glass” jars are indeed ok and will not splinter or break? There are freezer safe BPA free plastic jars by Ball also, however I was really trying to go plastic free… Please give your experiences ..
Did you ever find a lid solution to the Ball jars? I was hoping to use them, too, because they are the perfect size and so affordable, but the BPA in the lids (and/or other toxins in the coating on the lids) has me hesitating. Did you ever find a stainless steel lid for the Ball jars?
I use Weck jars for freezing baby food. they have a lot of different shapes and sizes. Glass lids too.
I am SO impressed with this list – so comprehensive. We've been buying Pyrex only since we know they're safe but am so glad to have more options! Thanks for pulling this all together. I was just starting to research food containers for my son who'll start eating lunch at school this fall.
Any recommendations on lunch containers for kids that are easy for them to open without assistance and can stand up to the dishwasher? Those are our points of frustration with those we've bought so far.
Do you have any information on Martha Stewart glass storage containers? They are similar to the Anchor Hocking Glass line and have a green plastic lid. Curious about the lids now that I have been doing some research.
Thanks!
Do you have any information on Martha Stewart glass storage containers? They are similar to the Anchor Hocking Glass line and have a green plastic lid. Curious about the lids now that I have been doing some research.
Thanks!
If a food storage container is bpa-free, can you safely heat food in it in the microwave? Also, is it safe to wash bpa-free containers in the dishwasher without causing any concerns about the safety of the food stored in them?Must you cool all foods before storing them in bpa-free containers? What I'm concerned about is the heat factor.
Once of the nice things about the Anchor Hocking products is that they are made in Ohio so they are local to me!
You might want to check out something new. Its glass and stainless steel. The glass is freezer, dishwasher, microwave and oven safe! The lid is stainless steel and completely screws on to the glass so theres no leakage, no freezer burn and no contamination. It has measurement markings of 50ml, 100ml, 150ml & 200ml so you can fill them according to your childs appetite and they are etched into the glass so they wont come off. Best of all it is patent pending and designed wholly by a mum! Check it out http://www.tinytastebuds.com.au
There is no such thing as “safe” or “safer” plastic. Most of these products have plastic lids… that's only lessening exposure, not cutting out exposure completely. The stainless steel, pyrex, cloth varieties are a safer bet. I would stay away from the silicon option completely (especially for children!!)… as that opens a whole new unsafe can of worms.
Are you certain the snapware glass lock lids are bpa free? I went to their website & they don't specify. All they say is that they have a silicone seal.
We've discussed often on our blog that manufacturer's are not required to label their products with materials used. So many times you will not find that information on their website either. That's what we do here at The Soft Landing, contact manufacturers and confirm the materials used so that we can provide lists of safe options in eating gear.
If you're still unsure of our findings, you may want to contact them directly to confirm.
Best,
Alicia
Can you tell which of these products are manufactured in the United States?
I'm not finished read this yet, but it's so fabulous 'n I'll back again when I was finished my job 😀
Great post!! Those are safe enough for our kids. And all are great in design.
What's the most important lesson you have learned from living on your food storage ?
This would be perfect! it looks so adorable.
good posting.I can’t see some pictures 🙁 ,maybe my internet is slow
To provide services to small organizations now we are proudly says that we have big corporate clients. We have a proven track record of servicing clients. laptops in pakistan
Bravo, Bros! keep going like this, more good info again.
Well , the view of the passage is totally correct ,your details is really reasonable and you guy give us valuable informative post, I totally agree the standpoint of upstairs. I often surfing on this forum when I m free and I find there are so much good information we can learn in this forum!
http://www.sin-game.com
This is so interested! Where can I find more like this?
Would it, in the end, be far more economical, not to mention more environmentally friendly, to spend a bit more money on better plastic food storage containers than those disposable ones. The short answer is, yes.
You can just order them from ebay and they’ll ship it to you via FedEx or DLH in 3 days, of course you’ll have to pay $12 more for the shipping, but overall I think it’s worth it. You can also drive down to some of the restaurants in Washington DC and ask them where they buy their Snapware glasslock, because they probably have a discount supplier.
You can find at this web page http://www.biokitchenstore.com food storage container to use for short term 100% made of plants that you can put in the microwave. It is great! even plastic #5 has some substances that can affect our health. Please read http://www.ewg.org/node/27344)
I read a canadian article explaining why they were banning our #7 plastics when they were BPA free and it stated that when tested our made in the USA and imported BPA free products were not BPA free at all.
Moving Home? At Smart Storage Boxes we offer a wide selection of moving boxes, packs, bubble wraps, foam protectors, loose fills,tissue papers with tapes and markers to meet your requirements. For details log on to http://smartstorageboxes.co.uk
Very interesting. I’m wondering where this information came from and how reliable it is. I’m having a really hard time finding safe food containers because I find that companies claim they are safe because the bottom is glass, but they don’t mention any specific information about the plastic lids. Right now I’m looking for small glass (or otherwise safe) bowls (10-16 oz.) with lids so I can pack Greek yogurt and fruit for my lunches. Pyrex has glass bowls and “safer” plastic lids, according to this author. But, is “safer” safe enough to warrant my spending all this money to get rid of plastic tupperware to replace it with glass containers with PLASTIC lids??? I’m not loving the Pyrex option anyway because I’ve read reviews. People say the bowls don’t nest, so they take up a lot of storage space, as you have to stack them one on top of the other. I’ve also read that if you TRY to nest them, they they get stuck together and the rim chips and breaks. What would be so hard for Pyrex to simply make the bottom of the bowls smaller in diameter than the top opening??? This way they’d nest! People have said the rims also chip in the dishwasher, so I guess the rims are weak in general.
Again, like I said, I’m wondering where the author got the above information. I received the OXO Good Grips POP food containers 1.5 years ago as a wedding gift. And I LOVE them! But, as I’ve recently started worrying about plastic food storage, I looked on the bottom of the containers. They are made with type 7 plastic…which according to my research is BAD because it contains toxins. However, the containers also say BPA free on the bottom. This worried me. I’m thinking, maybe they ARE BPA free, but maybe they have other toxins. Kind of lying/false advertising without actually lying, maybe? Lying by omission, I suppose? I don’t know! I’m really not sure. Maybe the OXO containers are 100% safe. I just wish companies would be a lot more open and in your face about this stuff! I just don’t want to eat out of poison…is that too much to ask!?
If the above information is 100% reliable, and I can trust that my OXO containers ARE safe…great! But, I’m still kind of worried, knowing that they’re made from type 7 plastic. They are really expensive to throw away when I’m not even sure what they’re made of! I just want SAFE food storage, that is well-made, won’t break easily, is dishwasher safe, and is able to nest inside each other for space efficient storage. If someone would make such products, I’d be happy to buy them! I’d even be happy to purchase an expensive product! But instead, all I ever see are expensive products that have at least one undesirable characteristic OR don’t CLEARLY state that ALL of the product is safe. Why would I purchase an overpriced product that I’m not 100% happy with?
Hi D.Scho,
Thanks for your thoughtful comment! While we can’t guarantee 100% accurate information, we do go through a lengthy interview process with each manufacturer before adding their products our shopping guides. And as for whether there are other toxic chemicals, we are able to gather information on specific materials used and then we’re usually able to tell whether we’re looking at a possible unknown chemical. Most plastics are made kind of like a cookie recipe – they can be single plastics (like polypropylene) or mixed plastics (like #7 in the recycling categories, where you’ll find layered and combined plastics that are still BPA-free). As in a recipe, the ingredients are usually pretty clear and they’re either in the product or they’re not.
Hope that helps a little!
it’s silly but they’re not lying about BPA free. this is an advertising tactic used by many companies. many plastics can be BPA free but can still contain chemicals that mimic hormones in the body, like estrogen. plastic storage for food is dangerous, and i’m starting to wonder how much. if plastic isn’t touching food or isn’t touching liquid, can food still absorb toxins? I’m researching this now. where would humanity be if we never discovered petroleum….
I like Lock containers:)
This list is great! I was wondering, are there good options for baby food freezing that aren’t expensive? Beaba has the freezer trays, but they are about $25 each!
I bought a bunch of silicone baby products- bibis, teething toys and was thinking of storage. However, Silicone does not appear to be any safer than other toxins in plastic. http://www.safbaby.com/is-silicone-in-baby-products-and-bakeware-really-safe
The author of this article is advising to use natural rubber instead. However, she uses aluminum bake ware? Isnt aluminum unsafe? The safety issue of plastic alternatives seems endless!
Hi NurbanMomma,
Safbaby was looking at the safety of silicone bakeware, which is a different situation in my opinion, because it’s being heated to the point where it could be worrisome. I don’t recommend silicone bakeware either because there hasn’t been enough research done.
You can read more about my thoughts on silicone for dishes at http://guide.thesoftlanding.com/newsletter/issue-2-is-silicone-safe-for-kids-dishes/
As for aluminum cookware, I recommend steering clear of it too because of concerns about heavy metal toxicity. I prefer glass, stainless steel or cast iron myself. You can read more about my experience with glass cookware at http://guide.thesoftlanding.com/newsletter/issue-5-teflon-free-cooking-re-think-pink-obesogens/
Hope that helps!
Alicia
I recently read where some companies use something called BPS, a common BPA replacement, which is also toxic. Are you aware of this element and if any of the recommende product lines contain BPS?
That’s a great question!
I’ve heard a lot of panic about this, so I’ve been researching day and night for several weeks. Here’s what I’ve found so far:
While there has been a documented substitution of bisphenol-S for bisphenol-A in thermal paper and dollar bills, I haven’t found a single documented case of BPS being substituted for BPA in plastic bottles and food storage. Folks seem to be drawing that conclusion from one study that was done (learn more at http://ow.ly/cc91T).
So far, the only “BPA-free” plastic I have concerns about in regards to the possibility of a BPS substitution is a #7 co-polyester that looks and feels just like polycarbonate (hard, shiny and clear). I’m concerned because the company won’t divulge their ingredients list and there have been two studies showing estrogenic activity. There’s a lawsuit happening over those study results, so I’ve been advised not to make a stink without validated research to cite.
I’ll continue the hunt! And in the meantime, if you choose to use plastic food containers, I still recommend you choose plastic products made from polypropylene or HDPE/LDPE that are made by trustworthy companies. ~Alicia
Thank you, Alicia. Your diligent work and research is very much appreciated!
You’re very welcome, I’m so glad you find it helpful! ~Alicia
P.S. I just posted my BPS in BPA-free plastics research with full links and explanations today: http://guide.thesoftlanding.com/is-bps-the-new-mystery-chemical-in-bpa-free-plastic-food-containers-and-cans
Thank you much for the list! I’m sure it took some time. I’m am trying to transition to no plastic, and its hard. I appreciate this so much!
You’re welcome Hannah! I’m just happy to hear you found it useful. ~Alicia
Excellent information, thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome, Lindsay! I’m so happy to hear that you found it helpful. ~Alicia
I think the Anchor Hockings set has lids that are #7 plastic.
Some of these companies claim to be bpa free because the glass bottom is but the tops are a different story. Frustrating.
Hi Shanna,
Not all #7 plastics are toxic (it’s a catch-all category). So not to worry, we confirmed that it’s BPA-free.
It’s always good to be extra vigilant though!
Alicia
Is this list PVC free as well?
Yes it sure is – although PVC isn’t typically found in food storage containers. Lunchbags and commercial plastic wrap are about the only places you’ll find PVC in food storage. ~Alicia
Hi,
I wanted to add another container to the list. Frego is a glass container in a silicone sleeve with a silicone lid. It contains No BPA. No PVC. No Polystyrene. No Lead. It is freezer, fridge, microwave, oven and dishwasher safe.
Excellent, thanks EG! We’ll be sure to check Frego out and add it to our list. ~Alicia
So, you don’t recommend Tupperware?
It’s been a while since we last researched Tupperware, but when we did speak to them last, they were still using BPA: http://nontoxicninjas.wpengine.com/ask-tsl-does-tupperware-contain-bpa/ ~Alicia
This article is from 2009. And you link to a statement from Tupperware that says as of March 2010, all Tupperware products sold in the US and Canada are BPA free. Just so you know…
Thanks for the heads up! Glad to hear it and will update the article. ~Alicia
Are pyrex lids Phthalate free?
Yes, according to what the company has told us, they sure are DMidd. Typically you’ll only find phthalates in PVC (vinyl) plastics, which aren’t usually used in food containers. ~Alicia
CMR inside Organotin stabilizer: Used in plastic food packaging
Workers is poison for 40 years without knowing !
We factory managers has a moral responsibility to tell the dangers to workers and the boss.
l Confusion CMR chemicals inside food grade Organotin stabilizer.
l CMR are cancer, mutation and reproduction chemical.
l Because of Lead poisoning in toys few years ago, production and quality compliance managers are very concern about CMR inside Organotin stabilizers. 2009/48/EC baned Organotin in toys.
l Plastic industry and health doctors around the world are confused by fact that the main ingredients of Organotin stabilizers are CMR but in the catalogue, it say it is food grade.
l In order to protect the safety of workers, factory managers have moral duty to provide gloves and protective gears to workers when handle Organotin. And tell the workers the danger.
“Food Grade Organotin stabilizer story” had been around for 40 years. Workers think Organotin is food grade always handle the product with bare hands. Factory manager has responsibility to tell the factory owner about the danger of Organotin stabilizer, if not, boss will be liable to compRefer to toxic chemical in food packaging, we would like to provide message to you.
CMR inside Organotin stabilizer: Used in food packaging ?
Workers is poison for 40 years without knowing !
We factory managers has a moral responsibility to tell the dangers to workers and the boss.
l Confusion CMR chemicals inside food grade Organotin stabilizer.
l CMR are cancer, mutation and reproduction chemical.
l Because of Lead poisoning in toys few years ago, production and quality compliance managers are very concern about CMR inside Organotin stabilizers. 2009/48/EC baned Organotin in toys.
l Plastic industry and health doctors around the world are confused by fact that the main ingredients of Organotin stabilizers are CMR but in the catalogue, it say it is food grade.
l In order to protect the safety of workers, factory managers have moral duty to provide gloves and protective gears to workers when handle Organotin. And tell the workers the danger.
l “Food Grade Organotin stabilizer story” had been around for 40 years. Workers think Organotin is food grade always handle the product with bare hands. Factory manager has responsibility to tell the factory owner about the danger of Organotin stabilizer, if not, boss will be liable to compensation by workers.
l Include example of catalogue of Organotin stabilizer and MSDS. We can see Organotin contains Tri-substitute Organotin, which are CMR, but they are not said inside the catalogue, only in the MSDS.
Inside MSDS of food grade
Di Methyl Tin stabilizer,
Inside MSDS of food grade
Di Octyl tin stabilizer,
It also contain
Tri-substituted methyl tin (CMR)
It also contains
Tri-substituted Octyl tin (CMR)
l Besides use in food packaging, Organotin stabilizer is use in baby diapers and woman sanitary towel. It will cause cancer to user.
l ensation by workers.
l Include example of catalogue of Organotin stabilizer and MSDS. We can see Organotin contains Tri-substitute Organotin, which are CMR, but they are not said inside the catalogue, only in the MSDS.
Inside MSDS of food grade
Di Methyl Tin stabilizer,
Inside MSDS of food grade
Di Octyl tin stabilizer,
It also contain
Tri-substituted methyl tin (CMR)
It also contains
Tri-substituted Octyl tin (CMR)
l Besides use in food packaging, Organotin stabilizer is use in baby diapers and woman sanitary towel. It will cause cancer to user.
Hi, could you please tell me if OXO Good Grips POP food containers are safe or will the chemicals leach into my flour, nuts etc. Thanks in advance!
Hi Sel, if they’re made from hard, shiny and clear plastic, I would personally avoid them because they’re most likely made from the new mystery plastic called Tritan (Eastman refuses to divulge what ingredients they use to make their co-polyester, so that’s a red flag for me). ~Alicia
I just purchased Anchor Hocking stacked glass jars and failed to notice that it stated non toxic: no, lead free:no.
Hi Mj, I just bought a new set of Anchor Hocking jars and didn’t see anything like that. I don’t know why a company would advertise that their products contain lead and that they’re toxic. Could you post a photo here for us? ~Alicia
Hello, I have been hard and long for toxin-free food containers for my lunch, especially insulated containers for hot foods but nearly all seem to have plastic screw lids with only BPA free stated! (Except for a lunchbot round pot that is rather ugly). Are ALL the products in your long list BPA, PVC, Phthalates… free? Many in that list only state to be BPA free.
Yes they sure are Este. ~Alicia
Hello…I’m a new mom and just going to begin making my own baby food. Kiddo Freedo makes a silicon freezer tray with individual portions that pop out. Is that brand safe for my baby? or do I need to stick to glass? Thanks in advance!
Kudos on making your own baby food! I’ve never heard of Kiddo Freedo, so I’m afraid we can’t help you with that one. ~Alicia
Hi Alicia 🙂 firstly thank you so much for putting this together. This post is exactly what I’m looking for. I am just curious if all of Ikeas food storage, whether it be glass or their other food storage products are also safe? Or is it just that particular plastic style? Thank you, Mel.
I’m so glad you found it helpful, Mel! We haven’t researched all of IKEA’s feeding gear, but they’ve made it easier to figure out what safer options are by adding the type of plastic used in the description. We recommending sticking with products made from polypropylene or polyethylene, and most of their dishes are just that. ~Alicia
Hi Alicia,
I just stumbled across your very informative site here and wondered if you know anything about Snapware Pyrex glass food storage containers. We are getting rid of all of our plastic storage containers that contain #3 & #7. The sad thing is that many of the containers are #5, but their lids are #7. Costco has a sale on the Snapware, but I thought I would check with you since you are a treasure trove of information.
Thanks so much so much for your site and insight!!
Thanks so much for the compliment! I did a quick search on the Costco website and it looks like you’re talking about these Snapware Storage Containers. I went to the Snapware website to see if they listed what type of plastic is used in the lids, but they don’t, so I contacted them directly. I’ll let you know as soon as I hear back! ~Alicia
Thank you so much for going the extra mile. I look forward to hearing what they tell you.
🙂
You’re very welcome! They already answered back saying that the lids are made from BPA-free Polypropylene, so you’re good to go! Here’s a screenshot of the email they sent: http://bit.ly/SnapwarePyrexLids. ~Alicia
Seriously Alicia, you are a rock star!
Thank you SO much for doing the research and for getting back to me in such a timely manner. It is so appreciated!!
Omg, I’m so happy I came across this post, and your website. So helpful and very much needed!
Can I ask your thoughts on the ikea TILLSLUTA range? They only say no BPA added? I’m trying to cut out plastic altogether but these containers would fill a specific need so perfectly I was considering making an exception?
Thank you so much again for a wonderful article.
All the best,
Sian
Hi Sian, thank you so much for the compliment! I wish we could be more helpful with info about TILLSLUTA, but IKEA doesn’t list the actual plastic used (which is odd, because they usually do). I’m afraid you’ll have to contact them directly to find out. Then we’d be happy to review that info and give you our recommendation, so be sure to come back and post it here, okay? ~Alicia
Just saw an article that the receipts you receive for purchases are loaded with BPA….I was shocked!
Isn’t that crazy?! We found out about that a few years back and recommend that pregnant mamas who work around those receipts all day consider wearing gloves and wash their hands often. ~Alicia
Love this website! I have some Rubbermaid containers with a white substance on the bottom. I have read two different thoughts on the substance. One saying that it is dishwasher soap residue and one saying it’s the plastic melting from the microwave.
Your thoughts?
Thank you.
I so appreciate your post, thank you. Can you tell me that if the products listed above are all PVC, BPA, lead, and phthalate free? We use pyrex and anchor and neither on of their websites state what I am asking.
Yes they sure are! All plastics recommended in our site are BPA, PVC, phthalate, lead and melamine free.
Hi, I stumbled upon your site, b cuz I am going crazy trying to figure out what plastic containers would be best to use for my baking stuff, i.e.. flours, sugars, oats, etc. I had all my stuff in tupperware, then read that prior to 2010, it contained BPA. So, I just threw them all away…and Now I am reading that even thought it contained BPA, the new stuff with BPS could be worse! ugh! I now have lock & lock (original and crystal) , sistema, Felli Flip tite, all over my kitchen, waiting to be unpacked…but wait! I am sooo confused and which should I use? What can you tell me about these brands? Which, if any don’t have BPA and BPS? Help please!
It’s so hard to navigate the sea of unlabeled products! I think these articles should help shed some light on how to avoid BPA/BPS: http://nontoxicninjas.wpengine.com/is-bps-the-new-mystery-chemical-in-bpa-free-plastic-food-containers-and-cans/ AND http://nontoxicninjas.wpengine.com/how-to-avoid-toxic-chemicals-in-food-containers-and-kitchen-appliances/
Have you reviewed sage spoonfuls glass containers. They look to have a glass option with plastic lids. They note, “BPA, Lead, Phthalate and PVC free” .
Can you confirm that the containers and lids meet your standards?
Also, they noted not to steam heat the glass containers. Do you know if this is a common shortcoming. I would like to move them from fridge and/or freezer to steamer if needed.
Sage Spoonfuls Big Batch Food Storage, Glass
Thanks so much for your reply. I have read through the links that you sent me.
I’m guessing that I threw out all of my #5 glad and ziplocs for nothing. 🙁 I just spent a ton of money on Sistema and lock and lock which are both #5 PP. You said that’s a better choice, but also says BPA Free, so that’s a bit ambiguous. 1) Is this a good choice as it’s PP, or not a good choice because it says BPA free? 2) Were the old lock and lock #5’s that did not say BPA free a better choice, even though these new ones are #5 PP? 3) My Tupperware was #3, which I’m guessing is not safe, but if the new Tupperware says no BPA’s then is that any better? Couldn’t find any LDPE or HDPE containers. 4) Do you know who makes containers which are LDPE or HDPE? 5) If some of my containers are #5 but don’t show the type of plastic, from what I gather is it ok to use them if they DON’T say BPA free? So sorry for bombarding you with so many questions, but I’m hoping you can clarify some of this for me. Thanks 🙂
Hi Rachel, We haven’t researched them specifically, but it’s certainly possible they’re made of a material called Tritan copolyester which could contain a chemical called BPS. It would be best to contact OXO directly to ask them what type of plastic the containers you have are made of (OXO has been very good at providing information in the past). Overall, we don’t recommend using products that contain BPS because of possible toxicities similar to BPA. ~Laura
Hi, I read yesterday that it was unclear from Pyrex whether they had BPS in their lids, do you know and if the lids are safe as well as glass is free from lead and cadmium?
Hi Ava, I contacted Pyrex today and they confirmed that all of their lids are made of recycling code #5 polypropylene. Good news! Also, their glass products are compliant with California prop 65 standards and as such are heavy metal safe. ~Laura
Thank you so much Laura, I can probably find Pyrex in the UK. It’s so hard to find anything safe anymore or actually they never were but we didn’t know.
Would you happen to know what other safe storage, jugs etc might be available in the UK made from plastic or glass?
Kindest regards,
Ava
Sent from my Windows Phone
Being from the US, I can’t really say what’s available in the UK. Wish I could help! ~Laura
I have two questions.
With glass containers, I often see “lead free” which makes me wonder how one knows if it DOES have lead. Suggestions on recognizing brands that may contain lead?
Secondly, have you see the research article that found other plastics with endocrine disrupting abilities, besides BPA? I read it recently, though I can’t recall now if it was referring to BPS (Though I feel like I would’ve remembered that). So the plastics you DO suggest, are there actually 3rd party studies that have confirmed (as best we can currently) that they ARENT leeching endocrine disrupting chemicals?
Many many thanks to all your researching and hard work.
Those are great questions, Bethany! In our experience, regular glass doesn’t typically contain lead. But lead crystal does and the glazes used on ceramic glass dishes and crockpot definitely can contain lead so you have to be careful there.
Yes, we’ve written about some BPA-free plastics that still have estrogenic activity going on and you can learn more about that here: http://nontoxicninjas.wpengine.com/is-bps-the-new-mystery-chemical-in-bpa-free-plastic-food-containers-and-cans/
Do you have any research on the Pro Glass series food storage with Easy Snap Lids? I was wanting to purchase glass storage containers with leak proof lids at a store instead of the internet, and I found this brand today at Bed, Bath, & Beyond; however, they do say Made in China…
Really appreciate your work! Any ideas for bulk food storage, I am talking really bulk storage like approx. 30 gallons…I have been looking at restaurant supply stores but they are all plastic…I am confused because the rubbermaid ones have the California warning label but this other brand called Choice does not. Would that mean that they are safer?
We’re so glad you found it helpful! Most large buckets and food storage bins are made from either polypropylene or polyethylene plastic which are the safest plastics available. Here are a couple of options for you: http://amzn.to/2g71V6F and http://amzn.to/2g6VWiB
We haven’t looked into the prop 65 warning label for California as it relates to rubbermaid, so I’m afraid we can’t help you there.
I’m glad you found the guide helpful! We didn’t confirm country of origin for this list, so I’m afraid we can’t help there.
Yes there sure are! You can find them in our guide right here: http://nontoxicninjas.wpengine.com/safe-dishes-for-freezer-meals
Companies sometimes change their materials without notifying us (how dare they!), so we’ll have to look into this one again. Thank you for letting us know! 🙂
Recycling code #7 is catch-all term for plastic resins that are made from a combination of plastics or materials that don’t fit into the other 6 categories. It’s the most mysterious category and can contain toxic chemicals like BPS, so that’s why we recommend avoiding it if possible. However, there’s a slim chance we may be able to confirm select #7 materials which is what we’ll try to do here. The minimum being a confirmation the product is also BPS-free. We’ll update asap!
Are the glass in these containers free of toxic chemicals…ie: lead, cadmium? Thank you.
The information we were given by the companies indicates that they never add lead, cadmium or any other heavy metals to their glassware. You can always contact the manufacturer directly if you have a specific question for a product you’re looking to purchase. This is a question they should be able to answer pretty easily. ~The Soft Landing Sisters