1. Paper – More Safety Concerns
Consumers are likely familiar with paper disposable tableware, including paper bowls and plates. In recent years, paper straws have also started to replace plastic straws. However, paper disposable tableware is generally not heat-resistant, water-resistant, or oil-resistant. For example, paper straws can easily break after absorbing water.
Additionally, EU research indicated that some paper tableware with patterns or dyes may contain harmful substances, making their safety less than ideal. According to EU local testing results, some paper straws contain PFAS chemicals (polyfluoroalkyl substances), some models were found to have PFAS levels exceeding EU recommended safety standards. These substances are used for oil, water, and stain resistance but are suspected carcinogens that may affect fetal development.
Consumers should also be cautious of products containing excessive levels of 3-MCPD (3-monochloro-1,2-propanediol) and heavy metals like aluminum. The former is a contaminant produced during food or material processing, affecting the kidneys, central nervous system, and male reproductive system in animal tests. The latter can accumulate in the human body, affecting the central nervous system.
2. Bagasse Pulp Plant Fiber – Better Than Paper, But Still Has Safety Risks
The second most common type of tableware is made from bagasse pulp, which is derived from the plant fibers left over after sugarcane processing, using either chemical or mechanical methods. These bagasse pulp containers are generally water and oil-resistant, with a heat resistance range of 0 to 100°C (some can be microwaved or heated in an electric pot). These containers can decompose naturally.
However, EU research indicates that these products may also contain PFAS chemicals, with some levels exceeding safety standards. Some samples also tested positive for 3-MCPD.
3. Palm Leaf – Relatively Highest Safety
Consumers might be less familiar with bowls and plates made from dried and pressed palm leaves. These tableware items have many advantages, including not requiring chemical additives during manufacturing and not harming trees. Palm leaf tableware is relatively sturdy, water and oil-resistant, and has high leak resistance.
EU research results show that this type of tableware is safer than the other two types of disposable tableware, although some products were found to contain pesticides (usually used during plant cultivation), but not at excessive levels.
Tips for Choosing Disposable Tableware
Using reusable tableware and utensils is always the best option, but if disposable tableware is necessary, consider the following two aspects to choose the right tableware
| Food Temperature | If you need to hold food with a temperature above 100°C (such as fried foods or hot congee), choose more heat-resistant containers and tableware. Also, ensure the lid's heat resistance matches the expected food temperature. |
| Product Appearance | Consumers should avoid choosing tableware and utensils with colorful patterns to reduce the risk of chemical contamination from dyes. |
Eco-Friendly Silicone Containers – Know More About Safety
Silicone containers have become increasingly popular as reusable food storage tools in recent years. However, like the eco-friendly disposable tableware mentioned above, consumers should pay special attention to the safety of silicone products. Research shows that silicone materials can contain volatile organic compounds (such as siloxanes), which may migrate into food if present in excessive amounts, affecting food safety. Long-term exposure to high doses of siloxanes may affect liver health in experimental animals, so caution is advised.
Currently, only Germany's LFGB and France's Food Contact Materials regulations set limits on volatile organic compounds in silicone products that may come into contact with food. When choosing silicone products, consumers should select containers that meet these standards for greater peace of mind.
Disclaimer
This article has been translated using artificial intelligence (AI) technology. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the translation, it may not be perfect and could contain errors or inaccuracies. The original article at 【環保開飯懶人包】3類環保即棄餐具 安全排行榜 should be referred to for the most accurate information. The Consumer Council does not assume any responsibility for any error, omission, or ambiguity in the translated content. If you have any question or concern about the translation, please refer to the original article or consult a professional translator.
![[Baby Snacks Guide] Who Says Snacks Can’t Be Healthy?](/f/guide_detail/415742/376c212/bb%20snack.jpg)
