Safe & Sustainable: The Best Non-Toxic Lunch and Snack Boxes for Kids

As parents, we want the best for our children—nutritious meals, joyful school days, and products that support their health. But one often-overlooked item in the daily routine is the lunchbox. Many traditional lunch and snack containers are made with materials that may contain harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, or lead. Thankfully, there are plenty of non-toxic, eco-friendly options that keep your child’s meals safe and fresh—without compromising on fun or function.

Here’s what to look for—and some of the best brands to consider.

Why Go Non-Toxic?

Children's developing bodies are especially vulnerable to environmental toxins. Plastics, in particular, can leach chemicals into food when heated, scratched, or exposed to acidic contents. These chemicals, including BPA (bisphenol A) and phthalates, have been linked to hormonal disruptions and developmental issues.

Opting for non-toxic lunch and snack boxes is a simple way to reduce daily exposure and give your child a healthier start.

What to Look for in a Non-Toxic Lunchbox

When choosing a safe lunch or snack container, keep these key consideration in mind:

• BPA-free and phthalate-free: The best option here is to steer clear of plastics all together.

• Food-grade stainless steel: Durable, non-leaching, and easy to clean.

• Avoid PVC and vinyl linings: Often found in soft lunch bags and can contain lead.

• Leak-proof design: Keeps messes at bay and food fresher.

• Dishwasher-safe: For your own sanity!

Top Non-Toxic Lunch and Snack Boxes for Kids

1. PlanetBox (this is our family's fave!)

• Material: Stainless steel, including some post-consumer stainless steel (i.e. recycled!)

• Why we love it: It’s durable, easy for kids to open and close, allows for packing lots of different options with no food touching (IYKYK), it's dishwasher-safe, made with recycled materials, is plastic-free, and comes with fun magnets to customize each box. This system is not cheap, but we're on year 5 of our first, and even added a second.

• Level up: Add on a carrier bag (come on, so cute) for portability, a place to stash your kid's Klean Kanteen water bottle, and to add a cold pack.

2. LunchBots

• Material: High-quality stainless steel.

• Best for: Families who want simple, minimalist bento-style options.

• Perks: Plastic-free, super durable, and available in various compartment styles.

4. U-Konserve

• Material: Stainless steel with silicone lids.

• Why we love it: Not everything needs to be a full-blown lunch box. We love these for packing snacks or other items with size variability.

• Eco-friendly bonus: A certified B Corp focused on zero-waste solutions.

5. Hydro Flask Kids Insulated Lunch Box

• Perks: If you already have containers that work for you but need a way to keep food hot or cold on the go, this is the lunch container for you.

• Material: BPA-free interior lining, hard shell exterior.

• Best for: Keeping food cold or hot for longer periods. Stylish and extremely durable.

6. Stasher Bags

• Material: 100% pure food-grade silicone.

• Ideal for: Snacks, sandwiches, or even freezer storage. Reusable, microwave-safe, and dishwasher-friendly.

• Why we love them: Good for so many things, low-profile, so easy to quickly throw in and take on the go.

Don’t Forget the Accessories

• Reusable utensils: Go for stainless steel or bamboo.

• Cloth napkins: Safer and greener than disposable ones.

Bon Apetit!

Choosing a non-toxic lunchbox is more than a purchase—it’s a step toward healthier habits and a more sustainable planet. With so many smart, safe options on the market today, you don’t have to compromise convenience for peace of mind.

Happy (and healthy) packing!