Taking a nutritious packed lunch to work can help you lose weight, save money and stay healthy. Store-bought lunches also generate a huge amount of packaging waste which the environment can certainly do without.
Since having my kids I have become aware of the dangers of BPA. While it is now better regulated, I still prefer using non-plastic food containers.
BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical used to make hard plastics such as polycarbonate. BPA can migrate into food and beverages stored in plastic containers made from it. BPA is a hormone disrupter and may interfere with the endocrine system of glands. It has also been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, heart disease and infertility. (source: Breast Cancer UK)
I have updated all our on-the-go food containers to stainless steel and drinking bottles to aluminium. Stainless steel is safe, non-leaching, durable and does not break which is perfect for carrying around. We use them for leftovers, work, picnics, after school snacks, camping etc..
Here are a few of my favourite products and brands for adults:
Lunchbots – I find these compartments boxes very useful as I am able to have different food combinations without the ingredients getting mixed up. The containers are rectangle and come in a range of colours that you can coordinate.
Lunchbots’ Bento boxes are 60% larger than Lunchbots’ classic containers and ideal for bigger appetites. The insulated food containers keep food hot for hours – without plastic coming into contact with your food. Plus, the bowl-like shape is natural to eat from and easy to fill.
U Konserve – I have a few insulated containers from U Konserve. They are made from a double layer of stainless steel and comes with a leak proof screw top. Heat up the meal at home and pop it in the food jar and it will stay hot for at least 4 hours – perfect for using up leftovers. It is also useful in hot weather to keep salads cool until lunchtime. Their extended range also include smart stainless steel rectangle boxes, coffee mugs and glass containers.
A Slice of Green – I love these clever nesting lunch boxes where you can transport different food combination. Simple and elegant, the range is also very affordably priced.
Sigg – I refuse to buy bottled water which is generally expensive and comes packaged in plastic. Instead we have a bunch of Sigg bottles at home that we refill at the tap. We use them for school, work, sports, travel, camping, holidays, picnics, walking etc.. Sigg bottles are made in aluminium (which is 100% recyclable) and have a BPA-free EcoCare liner. They are 100% watertight. The active bottle top is one of the best I have come across so far. Practical and leak-free!
Our eco retailer shop By Nature is kindly offering a 20% discount on the Lunch Box and Reusable Drinking Bottle ranges above (except A Slice of Green). Just use coupon “flexi20” at the checkout. The offer is valid on orders placed by July 14th.
You can find out more about By Nature here, follow us on Twitter or visit our Facebook page.
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Hello,
I bought an aluminium lunch box for my son. It says it is eco friendly but is it safe?
Thank you
I am not sure but it should be. I prefer using stainless steel.