Now-a-days, we cannot imagine our lives without plastic. It is ubiquitous. So much so, that microparticles of plastic have been detected in our food. Yes, a recent study published in Scientific Reports found potentially toxic polymers in fish which are eaten by humans!

Plastic pollution is causing our oceans, beaches, and landfills to choke because it is non-biodegradable.People all over the world are making concerted efforts to give up plastic, especially single-use plastic, and use alternatives that are less wasteful, safer, and better for the environment.

How safe are plastic containers?

Certain types of plastic pose grave risks for one’s health, causing cancer and reproductive disorders.

• Containers made of polycarbonate (plastic #7) leach the hormone-disrupting chemical, Bisphenol A (BPA) into food after repeated uses.
• Containers made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET, PETE, plastic #1) may leach carcinogenic and hormone-disrupting chemicals called phthalates into food after repeated uses.
• Wrappers made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC, plastic #3) leach carcinogenic dioxins into food.
• Containers made of polystyrene (PS, Styrofoam, plastic #6) are considered dangerous because its main component, styrene, is associated with central nervous system damage, compromised immune function, irritation of the eye, skin, and respiratory system, depression, and fatigue.

High-density polyethylene (HDPE, plastic #2), polypropylene (PP, plastic #5), low-density polyethylene (LDPE, plastic #4) are considered “safer” plastics for repeated use and food storage. However, a study published in 2011 in Environmental Health Perspectives found that even plastic containers labelled “BPA-free” leached endocrine-disrupting chemicals into food.

While glass is often used as a safe food storage material, it is inconvenient because it is liable to break easily. So which material can be used?

The safe alternative: stainless steel

Stainless steel has innumerable benefits over other materials for everyday use at home to store or carry food and drink. Stainless-steel lunch boxes are a favourite among responsible and informed families. The market offers a wide variety of stainless steel lunch boxes in various sizes and designs, making it an attractive option for children and adults.

5 reasons why stainless-steel lunch boxes are your best bet:

(1) Non-toxic
Stainless steel does not contain BPA or any other chemical that causes health issues. Thus, it is non-toxic, non-reactive to acids, and completely safe to use for food.

(2) Eco-friendly, long-lasting, sturdy
Stainless steel containers can last for years without degrading or becoming stained and discoloured due to hot water treatments and repeated washing with cleaning products. They also do not break when dropped. Manufacturers make leak-proof and airtight containers using silicone seals and locking clips, thus improving their usability.

(3) 100% recyclable
Stainless steel can be endlessly recycled and it is 100% recycled without loss of purity of quality. Most stainless-steel products in the market contain at least 75% recycled scrap content. On the other hand, when plastic is recycled, it is converted to a lower-quality product.

(4) Cost-effective
Unlike plastic or glass containers, stainless steel containers can last a lifetime. They may be more expensive to buy but, in the long run, they are cost-effective since they do not need to be replaced frequently.

(5) Hygienic
Stainless steel is hygienic because it does not harbour the growth of bacteria due to its smooth, non-porous quality. Neither does it transfer odours from food like plastic. There is less risk of contamination as well.

You may like to help your extended circle of family and friends to incorporate a healthier lifestyle. They will love you for it. For as few as 5 pcs, Soulgenie offer special wholesale prices on stainless steel lunch boxes with discounts applicable on orders as few as 5 pieces. Encourage its use among family and friends.

Either way, it is advisable to take small steps towards a healthier lifestyle. Remember every incremental step counts!