Safety is every parent’s top priority when choosing tableware for babies and young children. With so many options on the market—from risky plastics to painted styles that may contain lead—it can be difficult to make the right choice.
Children’s underdeveloped metabolisms and their habit of biting tableware make material safety especially critical. Here’s how to avoid BPA and plastic-related risks and choose truly safe tableware for kids.
Risks of BPA & Plastic Tableware
BPA (bisphenol A) is a chemical commonly found in plastics and some food can linings. It can disrupt the endocrine system, and long-term exposure has been linked to early puberty, impaired neurological development, and increased risks of chronic diseases later in life.
Plastic tableware also comes with several hidden risks:
- Toxin release at high temperatures
Most plastics (such as PET and PS) can only tolerate temperatures up to around 70°C. Heating or sterilizing them may cause deformation and the release of harmful substances such as antimony and phthalates. Antimony migration increases significantly at higher temperatures, especially when in contact with acidic foods. - Aging and repeated use
Plastic degrades over time, which increases the likelihood of chemical migration. Even “microwave-safe” PP lids may release toxins if used improperly or mismatched with containers. - Bacterial growth
Scratches on plastic surfaces can easily harbor bacteria. Combined with leftover baby food, this may lead to digestive discomfort or gut issues.
Low-cost plastic tableware often uses inferior or recycled materials, posing long-term safety risks. When it comes to children’s products, price should never come before safety.
Four Safe BPA-Free & Plastic-Free Materials
For safer and more practical choices, consider the following materials:
Food-Grade Stainless Steel (304 / 316)
Choose stainless steel labeled for food contact, such as 304 for daily use or 316 for enhanced acid resistance.
Advantages: BPA-free, heat-resistant, shatterproof, durable, and cost-effective.
Tips: Look for “18-8” or “304/316” markings. Avoid long-term storage of highly salty or soy-based foods to minimize metal ion migration.
Ceramic Tableware
Ceramic does not release toxins, preserves food flavor, and is easy to clean.
Choose products with uncolored, smoothly glazed inner surfaces to avoid potential lead or cadmium from decorative paints. Ensure they comply with GB 4806 or FDA standards.
Tips: Ceramics are fragile and best for home use. Clean with soft cloths—avoid steel wool.
Glass Tableware
Borosilicate glass is highly resistant to heat and corrosion, making it safe for boiling and sterilization. It is ideal for heating and storing baby food.
Tips: Glass is heavier and breakable. Choose designs with heat-resistant handles and use under adult supervision.
Food-Grade Silicone Tableware
High-quality silicone that is BPA- and phthalate-free is especially suitable for toddlers. It is soft (safe for teething), shatterproof, and withstands temperatures from -40°C to 230°C.
Tips: Choose GB 4806 or FDA-certified silicone with no odor and solid colors. Avoid low-quality silicone that feels sticky or yellows over time. Replace every 3–6 months.
Key Shopping & Usage Tips
A Simple 3-Step Shopping Guide
- Check certifications: Look for “BPA-free,” “food contact,” and GB 4806 or FDA labels. For stainless steel, confirm 304 or 316 grades. Avoid ceramic or glass with cracks or strong odors.
- Inspect product details: Ensure smooth edges with no burrs, and uncolored inner surfaces. Reject products with pungent smells.
- Avoid price traps: Extremely cheap plastic or melamine tableware often uses low-quality materials. Choose reputable manufacturers rather than relying solely on “BPA-free” claims.
Safe Usage Tips
- Match sterilization methods: Stainless steel and glass can be boiled or sterilized. Avoid sudden temperature changes for ceramic products.
- Replace damaged items: Scratches and cracks increase the risk of chemical migration. Replace tableware every 3–6 months or sooner if damaged.
- Clean separately: Wash children’s tableware separately and allow it to air dry. Avoid dishcloths that may introduce bacteria.
About Huashun’s Kids’ Tableware
Huashun’s kids’ tableware is designed with safety and durability in mind. Our products feature FDA-certified food-grade silicone that is easy to clean and odor-free, as well as mirror-polished 304 stainless steel with smooth, burr-free edges—ensuring maximum safety for little ones.
Huashun is a trusted flatware and food storage containers manufacturer based in Jieyang, China, occupying a 1,000-square-meter facility. We specialize in wholesaling flatware, kids’ dinnerware, kitchen utensils, and food storage containers, offering over 200 designs and exporting to more than 30 countries worldwide.
With over 20 years of manufacturing experience, we are committed to delivering high-quality products and building long-term partnerships with our clients—not just one-time transactions. Our focus is on timeless quality that supports sustainable, lasting business growth.
