The Best Non-Toxic and Eco-Friendly Lunch Bento Boxes, Containers, Lunch Bags for Kids

Packing lunches can be a daily struggle, but with the right gear, you can turn lunchtime into a win for your child's health and the planet! Here at Nature Kids Co., we're all about empowering families to make non-toxic, sustainable and safe choices, and that includes what goes into your family's packed lunches. Whether you are looking for safe, practical and minimalist choices for your baby or toddler daycare lunch, or best options for kids' school lunches; or maybe you are an adventurous family  that's on-the-go a lot for outdoor activities and exploration, we hope you find the below non-plastic recommendations relevant and helpful for your family needs. 

Packing lunches can be a daily struggle, but with the right gear, you can turn lunchtime into a win for your child's health and the planet! Here at Nature Kids Co., we're all about empowering families to make non-toxic, sustainable and safe choices, and that includes what goes into your packed lunches. Whether you are looking for safe, practical and minimalist choices for your baby or toddler daycare lunch, or best options for kids' school lunches; or maybe you are an adventurous family  that's on-the-go a lot for outdoor activities and exploration, we hope you find the below non-plastic recommendations relevant and helpful for your family needs. 

Stainless Steel vs Plastic Lunch Boxes: Complete Safety Comparison

Steering Clear of Toxins: The Hidden Dangers in Traditional Lunch Containers

Many traditional lunch boxes, lunch bags and other lunch packing essentials contain harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and lead. These chemicals can leach into food, potentially affecting your child's health. Opting for non-toxic, eco-friendly options ensures a safe lunch for your child and a healthy planet.

How to Choose a Non-Toxic Lunch Box: Complete Buying Guide

What Chemicals to Avoid

• BPA (Bisphenol A): Linked to hormonal disruption, obesity, and ADHD in children
• Phthalates: Associated with reproductive issues, asthma, and developmental problems
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Contains lead and other neurotoxins
• Lead: Causes developmental delays and learning difficulties
• PFAS: "Forever chemicals" linked to cancer and immune system problems

Safe Materials to Look For

• Stainless Steel (Grade 304/18-8): Safest option, AAP-recommended
• Food-Grade Silicone: BPA-free, flexible, but check for quality
• Glass: Non-toxic but breakable (not recommended for young children)
• Safer Plastics: Only codes 1, 2, 4, and 5 (avoid 3, 6, 7)

Stainless Steel: The Top Choice for Eco-Conscious Non-toxic Lunch Containers

When it comes to lunch boxes or containers that have contact with food, stainless steel stands out as the superhero of options. Here's why it's our top recommendation:

• Non-Toxic and Leach-Free: Stainless steel is naturally non-toxic and doesn't leach chemicals into food, keeping your child safe.
• Eco-Friendly: Stainless steel is a highly durable and recyclable material, reducing waste and minimizing your environmental footprint. 
• Durable and Long-Lasting: Stainless steel is built to last! Unlike plastic options that can crack or break, a stainless steel lunchbox can endure bumps, drops, and frequent use. This saves you money in the long run and keeps unnecessary waste out of landfills. Stainless steel lunch containers hold up so well and can even be used with multiple children and passed down to other family members - truly a lifelong investment. 
• Versatile: Stainless steel containers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, perfect for packing anything from sandwiches and cut veggies to yogurt and pasta. Many even come with compartments to keep lunches organized and prevent mixing (a big "no-no" for many kiddos). You can find suitable options for either wet or dry lunches, as there are plenty of leak-proof alternatives out there. 
• Recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for safe food storage: Stainless steel is a highly recommended choice for food serving and storage for kids due to its non-toxic nature. 

Bonus Benefits:

• Easy Cleaning: Stainless steel is dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze!
• Temperature Control: Some stainless steel containers can even be paired with insulated lunch bags to keep food hot or cold for longer periods.

Stainless steel isn't just a superhero for lunches! It's a fantastic option for kids' dinnerware as well. Head over to our blog post on non-toxic and eco-friendly dinnerware to learn more about the many benefits of using stainless steel at mealtimes.

Best Non-Toxic Lunch Boxes by Age Group

Top Brand Recommendations

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and Quince affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases. These links help support our blog and allow us to continue providing valuable content. All of our recommendations are unbiased and are based on thorough research and usually personal experience. 

Busy Benny

Busy Benny specializes in innovative stainless steel reusable snack boxes designed specifically for toddlers and young children. Their flagship product features 6 individual 50mL containers made from premium food-grade 204 stainless steel that's BPA-free, phthalate-free, and toxin-free. The unique design keeps picky eaters' snacks from touching or spilling onto each other, with each container holding the perfect 1/4 cup portion to encourage variety without overwhelming children.

Key Features:

• ✅ Durability: Survived 50+ drop tests with no dents
• ✅ Kid-Friendly: 3-year-olds could open containers independently
• ✅ Leak-Proof: No spills with silicone lids properly secured
• ⚠️ Capacity: Small portions may not suit older children

Best For: Toddlers, preschoolers and picky eaters who don't like foods touching

ECOLunchbox

ECOlunchbox stainless steel three piece bento lunch box - a fantastic versatile option for your family meals and snacking needs on the go. Other ECOlunchbox options are available as well, like this leak-proof stainless steel container. Need a non-toxic insulated food jar to keep your or your little one's food hot (or cold) throughout that day? Check out this awesome insulated stainless steel food jar / canister. It is completely plastic free and even has a handle for easy carrying. Great for kids' lunches as well as adult ones - perfect companion for any of your outdoor adventures, whether it's a trip to a local park with your kids or a full on camping experience. 

Key Features:

• ✅ Build Quality: Excellent 304-grade stainless steel construction
• ✅ Versatility: Multiple size options for different needs
• ✅ Company Values: B-Corp certified, woman-owned business
• ⚠️ Leak-Proofing: Basic models not fully leak-proof (wet foods need separate containers)

What we love about ECOlunchbox as a business and a brand:

• B corp and woman-owned small business that is driven by their mission to educate, inspire and empower people to say goodbye to plastic for both health and environmental reasons 
• All of their products are responsibly made, completely plastic free and ocean-friendly
• Offers 100% stainless steel bento lunch boxes for all ages in various sizes and designs

Best For: Families wanting various size options and supporting mission-driven businesses

Hydroflask

For other great non-toxic insulated food jar and container options consider Hydroflask. They have insulated stainless steel food jars of multiple sizes, like this one here. Looking for something specifically designed for kids? Check out this kids' insulated food jar, available in multiple fun colors, offers 12 oz capacity, comes with an easy grip lid and a perforated silicone boot for added protection in case of unexpected (although frequent with kids) drops. 

Lunchbots

Lunchbots is another great brand offering stainless steel bento lunch and snack boxes of various sizes, like this perfect little snack container. They even have insulated thermos containers that keep food hot for 6 hrs or cold for 12. This stainless steel insulated container was personally tested and continues to be regularly used in our family for hot school and summer camp lunches. We even use it for packing homemade ice cream (as pictured) for a healthy way to cool off during hot summer days at the beach or by the pool. It really does work and is incredibly durable. Silicone sleeve makes it easy for kids to hold to avoid dropping. 

Key Features We Love:

• ✅ Insulation Performance: Kept food hot for 6+ hours, cold for 12+ hours (even ice cream was perfectly frozen after a few hours on the beach (as pictured)
• ✅ Durability: Silicone sleeve prevents dents and improves grip
• ✅ Real-World Use: 4+ years of regular use without issues
• ✅ Versatility: Works for hot and cold foods

Best For: Families needing temperature retention for hot or cold foods

Klean Kanteen

Klean Kanteen offers comprehensive food storage solutions with their Rise Food Box collection, featuring adjustable and removable dividers, nesting capabilities, and microwave/oven-safe construction. Made with certified 90% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel, food-grade silicone, and chip-resistant Klean Coat® finish, these containers are leakproof, durable and dishwasher safe. Need an insulated option for hot or cold foods? They have these great food canisters as well (large and small sizes). 

Our Testing Results:

• ✅ Sustainability: 90% recycled content without compromising quality
• ✅ Heat Performance: Microwave and oven safe up to 350°F
• ✅ Modular Design: Dividers create custom compartments
• ✅ Professional Build: Feel premium, built to last decades

Key features we love:

• Certified 90% post-consumer recycled stainless steel construction
• Microwave and oven safe for reheating (remove lid first)
• Adjustable dividers that snap into place for customizable compartments
• Revolutionary TK Closure internal thread design for optimal thermal performance in insulated versions
• Climate Lock™ double-wall vacuum insulation in food canisters keeps contents hot for 7-11 hours and cold for 25-45 hours
• Family and employee-owned business committed to replacing single-use plastic

Best For: Eco-conscious families wanting maximum sustainability and heat flexibility

Ecozoi

Ecozoi designs eco-friendly stainless steel lunch boxes, offering several variations including leak-proof, microwavable, stackable, compartment, snack, and XL options. Their products are made from high-quality, food-grade stainless steel that's BPA-free, PVC-free, phthalate-free, and leaching-free, with a lower carbon footprint than plastic.

Key features:

• ✅ Value Champion: Best capacity-to-price ratio 
• ✅ True Leak-Proof: Redesigned silicone seals work perfectly
• ✅ Generous Sizing: 50+ oz capacity fits full meals for growing kids
• ✅ Lifetime Warranty

What makes Ecozoi special:

• Completely plastic-free packaging that can be reused (zero waste packaging)
• Free lifetime warranty when registered within 30 days of purchase
• Movable dividers for flexibility in meal prep
• Various sizes from single-tier to 2-tier options with mini sauce containers
• 100% carbon neutral shipping
• Extra-large 70 oz capacity containers are 3/4" deeper than regular lunch boxes

Best For: Families wanting maximum value and generous capacity

PlanetBox

We couldn't conclude our recommendations without including PlanetBox stainless steel bento lunch boxes. With a variety of sizes and options, you'll definitely find the perfect box for your family. Start your search with this classic Rover stainless steel 5 compartment bento box. 

The PlanetBox Rover is made of certified 49% post-consumer recycled stainless steel with 5 compartments and two leakproof containers, designed for how kids actually eat—a little bit of this, a little bit of that. It features rounded wells for easy cleaning, dishwasher-safe construction, and compatibility with pods, dippers and magnets for personalized use.

Key features:

• ✅ Premium Design: Most Instagram-worthy lunch box in our test
• ✅ Kid Appeal: Magnetic customization is a huge hit with children
• ✅ Leak-Proof Accessories: Dipper containers truly don't leak
• ⚠️ Price Point: Most expensive option, but quality justifies cost
• ⚠️ Latch Durability: Some users report latch issues after 1+ years

Best For: Families wanting the most beautiful, Instagram-worthy lunch solution that's equally practical and very durable

Mushie

Mushie offers beautiful, functional lunch solutions with Scandinavian-inspired design made from food grade silicone.Their lunchbox features built-in compartments, a tightly sealed lid with tab lock closure, and included utensils that lock in place with a removable divider.

Key Features:

• ✅ Aesthetic Appeal: Beautiful, minimalist Scandinavian design
• ✅ Food Grade Silicone: If you must use plastic, this is the safest option
• ✅ Convenience Features: Built-in utensil storage, microwave safe, easy and convenient for on-the-go adventures
• ⚠️ Not easily recyclable: While durable, once ready to be disposed, you'd need to seek out specialized recycling facilities that recycle silicone

What we appreciate about Mushie:

• Made from 100% non-toxic, BPA, BPS, PVC and phthalate-free materials
• Thoughtful Scandinavian design with soft, modern colors
• Dishwasher and microwave safe for convenience
• Practical features like utensil storage and compartment dividers
• Committed to providing aesthetically pleasing, functional products

Best For: Families transitioning from plastic who prefer products made from food grade silicone over stainless steel

Back to School 2025: Non-Toxic Lunch Box Shopping Guide

Of course, having the perfect lunch box is only half the battle. Now you need to fill it! For delicious and healthy meal ideas that will get your kids excited for lunchtime, especially if you're dealing with a picky eater, be sure to read our companion article: 10 Easy & Healthy Back-to-School Lunch Ideas Picky Eaters Actually Want to Eat.

Packing Kids' Lunch Sustainably -  Beyond a Lunch Box

A great stainless steel non-toxic lunch container is a great start. But you likely will need other lunch or snack packing essentials. Here are some additional tips and recommendations for packing an eco-friendly lunch:

Non-toxic and eco-friendly lunch bags

If a stainless steel lunch box isn't sufficient for all lunch items, lunch bags can be a convenient way to pack everything you or your child may need throughout the day. While they typically have no contact with food, you are likely still shopping for an eco-friendly alternative to avoid all those nasty chemicals around your family and environment.

Recommendations: 

Looking for something simple, low cost, and made from natural materials? Take a look at this Eco Bags Organic Cotton Bag. Simple and minimalistic, this bag is like a great reusable and washable alternative to your good old brown paper bag. The downside is, it is not insulated. But perhaps it is not a problem for you. 

For another insulated lunch bag option for your kiddo's school lunches, check out Fluf - made from certified organic cotton and tested food safe water resistant lining without BPA, phthalates, lead and other dangerous chemicals. 

Reusable Food Wraps

Skip plastic wrap and baggies! Consumer Reports found phthalates and related chemicals in nearly all tested food packaging. Opt for reusable beeswax wraps or silicone pouches to keep food fresh. 

Recommendations: 

Bee's Wrap reusable beeswax food wrap roll - cute nature-inspired design, made in the USA from organic cotton with plant-based wax, organic plant oil and tree resin. This is a highly versatile choice for any of your household food storage and wrapping needs. These are washable, reusable, and you can cut them to any size you need. 

Stasher Platinum food grade silicone reusable storage bags - excellent versatile option for home as well as on the go storage needs. 

Opt for non-plastic bento box essentials

Like packing Pinterest or Instagram worthy bento boxes? Food that looks nice and appealing is likelier to be eaten by kids, that's for sure, especially the pickier little ones. We are all for making cutouts from veggies, fruits, bread, and including those little cute food picks! Just make sure you opt for non-toxic alternatives. Below are some examples to consider. 

Recommendations: 

6 Pack Cartoon Animal Food Forks made from stainless steel and food grade silicone, even come with a nice ceramic holder for storage. Our kiddo has been enjoying eating his food (at school and at home) for a few years now.

Bento lunch box dividers and cupcake liners to use as food separators made from food grade silicone. We've been using these regularly - great to create more compartments in a stainless steel bento box or turn a one compartment container into a bento box. 

Food cutters for sandwiches, vegetables, fruit in various shapes and sizes, made from stainless steel. 

The Science Behind Safe Lunch Packing: What Parents Need to Know

Research shows that chemical components from packaging can migrate into foods, with questions about how much migration occurs and potential health effects gaining attention from researchers and regulators. Studies have linked BPA to high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, while phthalates have been associated with reproductive disorders, hormonal disruption, and developmental issues in children.

Why Children Are More Vulnerable

Children are particularly susceptible to chemical exposure from lunch containers because:

• Higher Relative Exposure: Kids eat more food per pound of body weight than adults
• Developing Systems: Their detoxification systems are still maturing
• Longer Exposure Time: Effects can accumulate over their entire childhood
• Vulnerable Development Stages: Key organ systems are still forming and can be disrupted

Bottom line, by packing your family's on-the-go meals and snacks in a non-toxic and eco-friendly way, you're making a positive impact on your child's health and the planet. According to an ECOlunchbox lunch waste study, a typical family using conventional throw-aways generates approximately 4,320 pieces of trash annually and the disposable packaging costs more than $400 annually! So ditch the disposables and embrace the power of durable and reusable alternatives, like stainless steel. 

We hope this guide empowers you to pack lunches that are good for your child and good for the Earth!

Sources and Research Citations:

• Trasande, L., Shaffer, R.M., Sathyanarayana, S. "Food Additives and Child Health." Pediatrics. 2018;142(2):e20181408
• Consumer Reports. "The Plastic Chemicals Hiding in Your Food." January 2024
• Muncke, J. "Our Food: Packaging & Public Health." Environmental Health Perspectives. 2012
• American Academy of Pediatrics. "Food Safety and Children." Environmental Health Guidelines
• Mayo Clinic. "What is BPA? Should I be worried about it?" March 2023
• Center for Health, Environment and Justice. "Study of School Supplies and Phthalates." 2012
• ECOlunchbox. "Lunch Waste Study: Environmental Impact of Disposable Lunch Packaging." 2023