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Are you trying to find the best non toxic dinnerware brands to keep your family safe and healthy?

As health-conscious consumers, we tend to scrutinize every aspect of our environment from carefully selected produce to handpicked natural and organic cleaning products. But one area that we often overlook is the very plates and bowls we use to serve our wholesome meals. Our dinnerware!

Best Non-Toxic Dinnerware, in a nutshell…

The truth is, that conventional dinnerware materials like plastic, melamine, and certain glazes used on ceramics can contain harmful chemicals such as BPA, lead, and cadmium. These toxins can leach into our food, especially when exposed to heat or acidic ingredients, potentially leading to a host of health issues ranging from hormonal imbalances to increased cancer risk.

Fortunately, there is a growing number of manufacturers creating plates, bowls, and mugs made from safe, inert materials like glass, stainless steel, and lead-free ceramics. So you can enjoy your meals with peace of mind, knowing that you’re not inadvertently ingesting harmful chemicals.

But it can be a little tricky to try and decipher the non toxic dinnerware options from the not-so-good-for-you options. 

So let’s start with some of the basics of what makes non toxic dinnerware different and how to identify some of the materials to avoid. 

What toxic materials can be found in dinnerware?

Lead and Cadmium

You might love the bright, vibrant colors and patterns on your ceramic dinnerware, but beware! Those eye-catching designs could be thanks to lead and cadmium in the glaze. These heavy metals can leach into your meals, especially if the dinnerware is old, damaged, or used with acidic foods. 

Exposure to lead and cadmium can cause serious health issues, particularly in children, including hindering brain development leading to learning disabilities, lower IQ, and behavioral problems. They can also cause nervous system damage, anemia, kidney damage, and increased cancer risk. 

BPA and BPS

Bisphenol A (BPA) and Bisphenol S (BPS) are chemicals used in some plastic dinnerware. These sneaky substances can leach out of the plastic and into your food, potentially messing with your hormones and causing other health problems. They have also been linked to obesity, diabetes, and even cancer.

PFAS

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals used to make dinnerware resistant to water, grease, and stains.

While that might sound convenient, these “forever chemicals” persist in the environment and can accumulate in your body over time. PFAS exposure has been linked to a range of health problems, including liver damage, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, high cholesterol, and cancer.

Melamine

Melamine is a type of plastic used to create shatter-resistant dinnerware. While it might seem like a practical choice, melamine can break down and release toxic compounds like cyanuric acid when ingested in large amounts. This nitrogen-rich compound has been linked to kidney stones and kidney failure, especially in children.

Silicone and Plastic

While silicone and plastic dinnerware are generally considered safe, it’s essential to make sure they’re made from food-grade materials.

Some cheaper plastic and silicone products may contain phthalates or other toxic additives that can leach into your food, especially when heated or used with acidic foods. Plastic can also break down over time, releasing chemicals into your meals.

PVC and Phthalates

Although it’s rare to find PVC in dinnerware, if you purchase from unreliable sources, there’s a slight chance your tableware might contain unauthorized or unsafe materials like PVC.

This type of plastic often contains phthalates and other toxic additives that can cause reproductive and developmental problems. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, and PVC itself is considered a carcinogen.

How do these toxic materials make their way into our food?

The answer lies in a sneaky process called chemical leaching.

Chemical leaching occurs when chemicals from the dinnerware material migrate or dissolve into the food or drinks they come into contact with, that you ultimately ingest. 

Several factors can contribute to the chemical leaching process:

Heat: High temperatures from hot meals or microwaving can speed up the leaching process.

Acidity: Acidic foods and drinks are more likely to draw out chemicals from dinnerware compared to neutral or alkaline foods.

Time: The longer food sits in contact with dinnerware, the greater the chance of chemicals leaching.

Minimizing Your Exposure

Avoid Heating Certain Materials: If you’re unsure about your dinnerware’s safety, avoid using it for hot meals or microwaving it.

Be Cautious with Vintage Dinnerware: Vintage pieces may contain lead or other unsafe materials. Either avoid using them for food or have them tested for lead content.

Choose Non Toxic Materials: Opt for dinnerware made from materials with a low leaching risk, such as lead-free ceramic, glass, stainless steel, or food-grade silicone.

The Best Non Toxic Dinnerware Brands for 2024

Crafted from premium, restaurant-grade stoneware, the Complete Dinnerware Set from Our Place collection includes everything you need to elevate your dining experience: plates, bowls, mugs, and serveware.

The satin exterior and glossy interior are complemented by hand-painted rims, adding a touch of artisanal charm to your table.

But these non toxic dinnerware sets are not just about looks. The Our Place set is designed with your health in mind.

The ceramic stoneware is non toxic, ensuring no harmful chemicals will leach into your food, even with frequent use. Plus, the chip-resistant and scratch-resistant material is built to last, so you can enjoy beautiful, safe meals for years to come.

Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch or a formal dinner party, the Our Place collection is ready for any occasion.

You can reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven without worrying about chemical leaching.

And when the meal is over? Simply toss the dishes in the dishwasher for a quick and easy cleanup.

Price

$645 (on sale $400)

Notable Features

Limited Warranty, Handcrafted, Dishwasher Safe, Microwave Safe

materials

Ceramic chip-resistant stoneware

Great Picks From Our Place:

Why settle for ordinary serveware when you can have extraordinary?

Handcrafted by skilled artisans in Portugal, each piece of Parachute’s Stoneware Serveware line is a true work of art.

These premium glazed matte white plates have a subtle edge detail that’ll make your meals feel extra special, whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or enjoying a cozy breakfast with loved ones.

But here’s the best part: these pieces are crafted from non toxic, food-safe materials that are built to withstand the rigors of daily use.

From the oven to the microwave, freezer to dishwasher, this stoneware can handle it all, making meal prep and cleanup a total breeze.

The simple, classic design allows you to mix and match colors and shapes to create a personalized, eclectic look that’s all your own.

Feeling a bit more traditional? Stick to a monochromatic palette for a timeless, sophisticated vibe that never goes out of style.

Price

$49 – $69 per piece

Notable Features

Oven, microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe. Handmade with clay sourced from Portugal.

Materials

Ceramic stoneware made from clay sourced in Portugal, Matte glaze finish

The Year & Day Core 16-Piece Dinnerware Set offers a fresh take on modern tableware (and it comes in 8 gorgeous color options!).

This curated collection includes the essential pieces you’ll reach for again and again: four of each of the Big Bowls, Small Bowls, Big Plates, and Small Plates.

Year & Day takes a minimalist approach to tableware design. You won’t find unnecessary specialty pieces, just the essentials you’ll use every single day. 

Crafted by artisans in Portugal using locally sourced clay and a single-firing process, the Core Set features elegant silhouettes and chic semi-matte glazes in a California-inspired palette.

The result is a timeless collection that looks beautiful on open shelving and effortless in your daily tablescapes.

Price

$240.00 for the 16-piece set ($13.50 per piece)

Notable Features

Artisan-made in Portugal, Elegant, minimalist design, Dishwasher, freezer and oven-safe, Free of lead, cadmium, and other heavy metals

Materials

Ceramic (8 color options) made with locally sourced clay in Portugal using a single-firing process that is better for the environment.

Whether you’re a home cook or a professional chef, Anchor Hocking’s non toxic glass dinnerware is a must-have for anyone who values quality, durability, and classic style.

This set of 12 10-inch plates boasts a clean, classic design that complements any decor.

Whether you’re whipping up a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a formal dinner party, these plates will look great on your dining table. 

Anchor Hocking dinnerware is crafted from high-quality glass right here in the USA.

That means you can feel good about serving your meals on a healthier alternative to plastic or metal. These plates won’t warp, stain, retain odors, or leach dangerous chemicals into your food. 

Price

$45

Notable Features

Dishwasher Safe, BPA Free, Non Toxic Dinnerware Made in USA, CA Prop 65 Compliant, Lead, Cadmium, and Heavy Metal Free

Materials

High-quality tempered glass made in the USA.

Step up your dining game with Bormioli Rocco’s White Moon Opal Glass Dinner Plates. They’re the perfect blend of European sophistication and everyday practicality!

Handcrafted in Spain from premium tempered opal glass, these plates boast a gently translucent, milky white hue that adds a touch of elegance to any table setting.

The classic round shape and subtle, luminous finish create a stunning backdrop for your culinary creations, making even the simplest meals feel like a special occasion.

The tempering process makes them exceptionally resistant to thermal shock, breakage, and chipping.

Measuring a generous 10.63″ in diameter, they’re perfect for main courses, side dishes, and even individual servings. Great for any occasion!

Price

$29.99 for 6 plates

Notable Features

10-Year Limited Warranty, Dishwasher Safe, Microwave Safe, Made in Spain

Materials

Tempered Opal Glass

There has been a lot of debate lately around are corelle dishes safe? But we’re here to put your mind at ease.

Corelle lead free dishes produced after 2005 are considered safe, complying with current FDA regulations (thank goodness bc my grandmas uses these!).

If you’re tired of chipped, cracked, and broken dishes it’s time to upgrade to Corelle’s Bella Faenza 18-Piece Dinnerware Set.

The Bella Faenza dishes only look delicate with their embossed floral scrolls. But don’t let the delicate design fool you, these dishes can stand up to daily wear and tear.

Corelle’s signature triple-layer Vitrelle glass is remarkably resistant to chips, cracks, and breaks, ensuring that your dinnerware stays looking beautiful meal after meal. 

One of the best features of this set is its compact stacking design. The plates and bowls nest neatly together, taking up half the space of traditional ceramic dishes. Great for small kitchens, apartments, or anyone looking to maximize their cabinet space.

Price

$98.50 for the 18-piece set

Notable Features

3-Year Warranty, Dishwasher, microwave and preheated-oven safe, Made in the USA

Materials

Vitrelle® glass

Bonjour, gorgeous! The Duralex Lys 18-Piece Tempered Glass Dinnerware Set is here to add a touch of French style to your table. It’s one of our favorite lightweight dinnerware brands.

Crafted in France since 1945, these plates are the epitome of classic elegance. The smooth, soft curves and modern design will make you feel like you’re dining in a chic Parisian café, even if you’re just enjoying a casual meal at home.

Duralex’s signature tempering process makes the glass an astonishing 2.5 times stronger than your average dinnerware. That means these plates can handle whatever life throws at them, from accidental drops to extreme temperature changes.

Speaking of temperature, the Lys set can withstand sudden swings from a freezing -4°F to a scorching 212°F. So, whether you’re serving up a piping hot casserole or a chilled gazpacho, these plates can take on anything you throw at them.

Price

$129.99 for the 18-piece set

Notable Features

Made in France, Impact and chip resistant, Non toxic, non-porous, lead/cadmium/BPA-free, Stackable design

Materials

Tempered Glass

Looking for dinnerware that’s as unique as it is beautiful? GreenPan’s Keltum Glazed Stoneware Dinner Plates are the perfect addition to your table!

With gently curved edges and an imperfect, natural feel, these plates are a stunning contrast to traditional, cookie-cutter dinnerware.

While this organic dinnerware in one-of-a-kind shapes is truly unique, the real magic happens in the glaze.

GreenPan’s reactive glaze is like a work of art in itself.

As it’s fired, it naturally intensifies and disperses, creating a mesmerizing array of tonal variations. No two plates are exactly alike.

Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal with family or hosting an elegant dinner party, these generous 15-inch plates offer ample space for all your culinary creations.

Price

$28.99 for a set of 2 plates

Notable Features

Microwave safe, Dishwasher safe, Handcrafted in Portugal by master artisans, Reactive glaze creates unique patterns on each piece, Organic edges add a rich, textural look

Materials

Stoneware

The sleek square design and tempered glass of the Libbey Tempo 12-Piece Glass Dinnerware Set will make your dining table or kitchen nook look like a high-end restaurant.

Free from BPA and lead, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your meals are served on safe, non toxic dishes. And the tempered glass resists chips and cracks with regular use.

Whether you’re starting a new dinnerware collection or looking to complement your existing set, the Libbey Tempo 12-Piece Glass Dinnerware Set is a great affordable option.

At just $39.99, it’s a great value for high-quality, stylish glassware that will elevate any dining experience.

Price

$39.99 for the 12-piece set

Notable Features

BPA-free and lead-free, Dishwasher safe, Stackable square design

Materials

Tempered glass

Handcrafted from high-quality ceramic, these 9-inch “everything bowls” are perfect for serving pasta, grain bowls, salads and more.

Their shallow, roomy design makes them ideal for everyday meals or special occasions.

Each piece carries its own subtle variations and distinctive charm, thanks to the handcrafted process. The classic white color complements any table setting, from casual to formal. And with their oven, freezer, dishwasher and microwave safe construction, these bowls will last you for years.

Beyond their practicality, these bowls are also designed with sustainability in mind. The factory uses co-generation technology to capture and repurpose heat from the kiln area, minimizing waste.

This heat is used to dry the wet clay bodies and generate electricity to power the air conditioning system.

The packaging has also been updated to remove all styrofoam and bubble wrap, making it more eco-friendly.

Price

$34.95 (set of 4 dinner bowls)

Notable Features

Sustainably made using co-generation technology, Lead-free and plastic-free, Oven, freezer, dishwasher and microwave safe, Handcrafted

Materials

High-fire porcelain

The Stone + Lain Celina Stoneware Dinnerware Set is a unique and chic collection that will elevate any table setting.

Made from premium stoneware, this 16-piece set includes dinner plates, salad plates, large bowls and mugs, providing service for four.

The modern, minimalist aesthetic is suitable for use in the kitchen, dining room or even outdoors.

Just add your favorite tablecloth and cutlery to create a beautifully understated tablescape.

Price

$99.99 for the 16-piece set

Notable Features

Dishwasher and microwave safe, Stackable design

Materials

Stoneware

How can I tell if my current dinnerware is non toxic?

Check for lead and cadmium. Bright colors like yellows or reds, especially in older or vintage dishes, can be a sign of toxic heavy metals in the glaze. You can conduct a home lead or cadmium test kit on any suspicious dishes.

Inspect the glaze for cracks, chips, or uneven areas. If the glaze is damaged, lead and cadmium can leach into your food. Keep in mind that sometimes cracks may be too small to see at first if the dish has been dropped or hit something hard.

Look for labels indicating the dishes are lead or cadmium-free. Many modern dishes intended for food use will display such markings.

Consider the age of the dishes. Ceramics made before the 1980s may have used lead-based glazes, posing a health risk, Dishes made in sweatshops may also be under-fired to save time and fuel, compromising safety.

Avoid using dishes with deep divots or scratches that can gather food and bacteria if not cleaned thoroughly.

Purchase dinnerware from reputable brands that adhere to safety standards and test their products for toxins.

How can I clean and care for my non toxic dinnerware?

Stainless steel is generally quite durable and easy to clean. You can wash it with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or dishcloth. For tougher messes, you can use a baking soda paste or a mild dishwashing liquid. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as these can scratch the surface.

Ceramic is also relatively durable, but it’s important to handle it with care to prevent chipping or cracking. You can wash ceramic dinnerware by hand or in the dishwasher (check the manufacturer’s instructions first). If washing by hand, use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. Avoid using extreme temperatures, as this can cause the ceramic to crack.

Glassware is another easy-to-clean option. You can wash it in the dishwasher or by hand with warm, soapy water. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals, as these can scratch the glass.

More General Tips

  • Rinse your dishes with warm water before washing them to remove any food scraps.
  • Allow your dishes to air dry completely before storing them. This will help prevent the growth of bacteria.
  • If your dishes become stained, you can try soaking them in a solution of warm water and baking soda or white vinegar.
  • Avoid using abrasive cleaners or sponges, as these can scratch the surface of your dishes.
  • Store your dishes in a cool, dry place.
  • With proper care, your non toxic dinnerware should last for many years. For specific care instructions,  always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for your dinnerware.

This was your expert guide to non-toxic dinner plates, dinner bowls, and dinnerware sets.

By choosing non toxic dinnerware, you’re taking a significant step towards a healthier lifestyle.

With so many beautiful, durable, and safe options available, there’s never been a better time to make the switch! 

Whether you opt for the timeless elegance of lead-free ceramics, the modern sophistication of tempered glass, or the sleek durability of stainless steel, you can enjoy your meals with peace of mind, knowing that you’re not inadvertently ingesting harmful chemicals.

So, as you gather around the table with loved ones, sharing stories and savoring wholesome meals, remember that every bite you take is a conscious choice to prioritize your well-being. 

Bon appétit, and here’s to many more delicious, worry-free meals to come!

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