Last updated on April 11th, 2022 at 02:09 pm
A while back we did a quick write up of safer alternatives to lunch boxes when all that “lead in lunchboxes” hoopla went down. Since then there are so many great alternatives to lunch boxes available that it totally warrants a new cheat sheet. Lunchboxes are perfect for little and big kids and help reduce waste that’s clogging up our environment. Whether stainless steel, canvas or recyclable plastic is your thing – there is a lunch system for you. No matter what age. Note: This is not a comprehensive list – if you think a brand should be on here please let us know and we’ll verify it! (Last Updated July 8, 2011)
Lunch Boxes, Bags and Lunch Systems
We looked high and low for lunch boxes and gear that was free of BPA, PVC, Phthalates and either claims to be lead-free or meets CPSIA testing standards for lead. I’ve noted which brands claim what regarding lead. All of our picks are also free of Microban. Here are our picks
- Built NY (meets lead req)
- Crocodile Creek Lunch Boxes (meets lead req)
- ECOlunchboxes (lead free)
- Dabbawalla Lunch bags (lead free)
- Beatrix Lunch Boxes (lead free)
- EasyLunchBoxes.com (lead free)
- FourPeas Insulated Lunch Bags (lead free)
- FUEL Lunch Bags, Boxes and Utensils (interior liner lead free)
- Kids Konserve (lead free)
- Laptop Lunch Systems (lead free)
- My MatSack (meets lead req)
- Skip*Hop Zoo Lunchies Insulated Lunch Bags (meets lead req)
- ThermaPod Mini (lead free)
- PackIt Insulated Lunch Bag (lead free)
- PlanetBox (lead free)
- Pottery Barn Kids (meets lead req)
- To-Go Wear Stainless Food Carriers
- Thermos Brand Lunch Boxes (meet lead req)
Lunchable Storage Containers
- ECOlunchbox Stainless Food Storage
- Greentainers Srainless Steel food containers
- LunchBots Stainless Food Containers
- Kinderville Silicone Food Jars
- ThinkBaby Feeding Set and Separates
- Innobaby Keepin’ Fresh Glass and Plastic food storage
- Thermos Stainless Food Jars
- Thermos FUNtainers and Straw Bottles
- Fresh Snack Pack
- ReUsies Sandwich and Snack Bags
- SnackTAXI reusable snack and sandwich bags
I also encourage you to download the CHEJ 2010 Back to School PVC Free School Supplies shopping guide and the EWG Back to School Guide for more ideas on having a less toxic school year.
Great places to shop for lunch/food storage gear:
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