Plastic Free Kids Plates: Does It Really Matter?

When it comes to choosing the best dinnerware for our little bears, many families are wondering the same thing: “Does it actually matter if I buy plastic free kids plates or not?”

As a parent myself, I always had it in the back of my mind. But it wasn’t until I was shocked in to action in 2018, after reading the research regarding microplastics in humans, that I actually made the switch to plastic free kids plates. 

I want to share with you what I’ve learnt along the way so that you can think about what’s best for your own home.   

Reason #1) Toxins and Chemicals

Plastics often contain chemicals like bisphenol-A (BPA), phthalates, and other additives that can leach into food, especially when heated. These chemicals are known as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormones and may contribute to developmental issues, obesity, and even certain cancers. Research shows that 14000 chemicals can be found in approved food-grade plastics.

For babies and young children, whose bodies and immune systems are still developing, the risks are higher.  With health issues relating to thyroid, reproductive dysfunction and even obesity showing links. Choosing plastic-free plates ensures your child isn’t unknowingly consuming these harmful substances, especially when they’re having those warmer meals.

2) Microplastics: Tiny but Harmful.

Even if the plastic plates are BPA-free, the risk of microplastics remain.  Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that end up in our oceans, rivers, and even in the air we breathe. They’re often too small to see with the naked eye, but their impact on both the environment and our health is profound.

While researchers are still studying the full effects of microplastics on human health, the fact that they can enter our bodies through food, water and even the air, is concerning. You can read more about them in our previous post here. Microplastics are the entire catalyst for us starting EcoCubs. We discovered that even the bamboo dinnerware on the market at the time contained melamine and plastic binders. Switching to genuine plastic-free kids plates reduces the risk of introducing microplastics into your home and your child’s diet, which makes the case for non-plastic options even stronger.

3) Environmental Impact: A Growing Concern

It’s not just about the immediate health risks—plastic has a huge environmental footprint.

The production of plastic involves toxic chemicals and the release of greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change. Additionally, plastic is notoriously difficult to recycle and can take hundreds of years to decompose. By choosing plastic-free kids plates, you're helping reduce demand for plastic production, which ultimately lessens the environmental burden. Materials like bamboo, for example, are not only biodegradable but also grown sustainably, making them an excellent alternative. Likewise, stainless steel plates are durable and recyclable, reducing waste over time.

4) Convenience

There are limitations to how you can use plastic plates, especially when it comes to dishwashers and microwaves! And those are important factors in our busy home! Due to issues around chemical leaching and microplastics, plastic plates should never be in the microwave. And ideally, should be kept away from warm foods all together, as the heat is often what causes these issues. 

There are also issues with odours and staining in plastic. Have you ever seen a plastic plate after it’s been used for a cheesy greasy pizza, past sauce or watermelon? These foods can impregnate the plastic and the stains never leave! The smells are also problematic. Plastic is very porous and known the take on the smells and fragrances of foods and cleaning agents.

So What Are The Best Plastic-free Kids Plate Options? 

We have written a whole blog post on this previously. But to make it quick, our fave options are:

• 100% Genuine Plant-based Dinnerware (aka EcoCubs)- no harmful chemicals, plastics or melamine mean no toxins or microplastics leaching in to your bears food. They are entirely compostable and biodegradable and just as importantly- dishwasher and microwave safe! 🥳 
• Stainless Steel- As long as you do your research in ensuring the best quality food-grade stainless steel, this is an excellent option. It’s non-toxic, plastic-free and incredibly eco-friendly. It’s also dishwasher safe and great with hot foods- however you do need to skip the microwave with this one!

The Bottom Line: Why Plastic-Free Kids Plates Matter

It’s easy to overlook the materials we use for our children’s everyday meals, but when you consider the health implications and environmental costs, it becomes clear that plastic-free plates are a smarter choice. By choosing toxin-free alternatives, you’re minimizing the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals and microplastics. Plus, you’re contributing to the fight against plastic pollution, ensuring that future generations have a cleaner planet to enjoy.

So, does it really matter? We are of course going to say a resounding “YES!”. Choosing plastic-free kids plates is an investment in both your child’s health and the planet's well-being. It’s a simple change that can have lasting effects on your child’s health and the world they’ll grow up in.