Why Choose Silicone vs. Plastic?
Info graphic explains why silicone is better than plastic when it comes to ocean safety and more!
When it comes to choosing the exceptional materials for our products, we make sure you’re getting the safest, most eco-friendly options for your family. That’s why, when we were creating our leak-proof Blue Water Bento product lids, we chose silicone over plastic.
To explain why ECOlunchbox has chosen to use silicone in our leak-proof Blue Water Bento collection, we've prepared this chart comparing the numerous positive aspects of silicone versus plastic on the basis of ocean safety, food safety, durability, recyclability and other health factors.
Download a PDF version of this chart
Silicone doesn't turn into micro plastic when lost in the environment
So, is silicone safe? Yes! Silicone is also extremely durable and significantly more ocean-friendly than plastic since it doesn't break down when lost in the environment into micro pieces like plastic does. Furthermore, silicone lasts longer, and stands up much better against heat (even in commercial dishwashers!) and cold than plastic alternatives. It’s safer for your family, too, with no estrogen-mimicking toxins like BPA to worry about. It is odorless, stain-resistant, hypoallergenic, and has no open pores to harbor harmful bacteria.
Silicone isn't toxic when burned and can be recycled at specialized facilities
Yes, silicone is recyclable through specialized facilities and can be incinerated safely without toxic off-gassing. (ECOlunchbox will take back silicone from our products and handle recycling through a mail-in program to a specialty recycler.) When burned, silicone reverts back into its harmless ingredients: amorphous silica, carbon dioxide, and water vapor (unlike plastic which releases toxins when burned).
Thankfully, you won’t have to worry about silicone breaking or cracking for a long time! It's super flexible, durable, resists melting, doesn't break or warp. Chances are our Blue Water Bento silicone lids will last for many years, but in case you lose one, don't worry because we offer replacement lids.
Still curious about silicone vs. plastic? Read on!
To read more about how ECOlunchbox decided to use silicone in our Blue Water Bento leak-proof products, please read our in-depth article called "Silicone + People & Planet."
