When it comes to socializing and nourishment, the kitchen seems to be the place to be. However, the real magic happens when the food is served on a beautifully set table. Eating is not only a direct connection to our planet, but also an opportunity to consider the environmental impact of what we eat and what we eat on.
With the increasing awareness of the harm that plastic dinnerware can cause to our health, eco-friendly dinnerware has become the foundation of an Earth-friendly plate. Many brands are now putting down their foot (and forks) to create dishes with purpose and the planet in mind. In this article, we will explore some of the top eco-friendly dinnerware brands that are leading the way in sustainable dining.
The Best Sustainable Dinnerware Brands To Prep Your Palate
When it comes to sustainable dinnerware, there are plenty of brands to choose from. Here are some of the best sustainable dinnerware brands that are eco-friendly, stylish, and functional.
1. Our Place
Our Place is a brand that offers eco-friendly dinnerware that is both practical and beautiful. Their porcelain plates and drinking glasses are designed to inspire a home-cooked meal. The brand offers à la carte style plates, side bowls, steamer baskets, and drinking glasses in a few different colors. They also offer eco-friendly dinnerware sets such as the Tabletop Set, Dinnerware Duo, or Basics Bundle. Our Place’s sustainable dinnerware is made from recycled and sustainably-sourced materials, such as virgin porcelain ceramic, recycled glass, and natural materials like sand. The brand partners with factories that are certified by SA8000, BSCI, ISO, and Sedex to ensure ethical production practices. Our Place also donates to organizations like Feeding America.
2. Material Kitchen
Material Kitchen is a Los Angeles-based brand that offers eco-friendly ceramic dinnerware that is built to last. Their multi-purpose products help you achieve a zero waste kitchen and limit the number of items you need. Material Kitchen’s ceramics, placemat sets, and full glassware range are designed to create the perfect sustainable dinner table. The brand’s sustainable dinnerware is crafted from natural Korean soils and hand-finished with a non-toxic, scratch-resistant interior glaze. Material Kitchen’s knife base units are made with FSC-certified, sustainably-harvested wood. The Copper Set, which comes with three non-stick pots, is cadmium, lead, and PFOA-free. Material Kitchen supports a number of charities, including Heart of Dinner, Korean American Community Foundation, and Drive Change.
3. Public Goods
Public Goods is a USA-based home and personal care brand that offers a range of ethical, toxin-free, and low waste products, including sustainable dinnerware. Their minimalist dinnerware comes in all white, giving a pure, clean aesthetic. Public Goods’ sustainable dishes are made from high-fire porcelain, making them microwave and freezer safe. The brand also offers a range of sustainably grown acacia wood or BPA and plastic-free silicone cooking utensils.
4. Ekobo
Ekobo offers eco-friendly bamboo dinnerware that is casual and cohesive. The brand’s sustainable dinnerware is made from bamboo fiber, a renewable resource that is biodegradable and compostable. Ekobo’s dinnerware is dishwasher safe and comes in a range of colors and styles.
5. Fable
Fable offers sustainable dinnerware that is both beautiful and functional. The brand’s dinnerware is made from natural materials such as bamboo fiber and cornstarch. Fable’s dinnerware is biodegradable and compostable, making it an eco-friendly choice. The brand’s dinnerware comes in a range of colors and styles, and is dishwasher safe.
6. Ahimsa
Ahimsa offers sustainable dinnerware that is made from 100% food-grade stainless steel. The brand’s dinnerware is durable, dishwasher safe, and designed to last a lifetime. Ahimsa’s dinnerware comes in a range of colors and styles, and is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
7. Gibson
Gibson offers sustainable dinnerware that is both stylish and eco-friendly. The brand’s dinnerware is made from natural materials such as bamboo fiber, cornstarch, and melamine. Gibson’s dinnerware is dishwasher safe and comes in a range of colors and styles.
8. East Fork
East Fork offers sustainable dinnerware that is made from locally-sourced materials. The brand’s dinnerware is made from North Carolina clay and is fired in a gas kiln. East Fork’s dinnerware is dishwasher and microwave safe, and comes in a range of colors and styles.
9. Etsy Upcycled Dinnerware
Etsy offers a range of upcycled dinnerware that is both sustainable and unique. The brand’s dinnerware is made from repurposed materials such as glass bottles and old plates. Etsy’s upcycled dinnerware comes in a range of colors and styles, and is perfect for those who want to make a sustainable choice while also adding a unique touch to their dinner table.
10. Bambu
Bambu offers sustainable dinnerware that is made from bamboo. The brand’s dinnerware is biodegradable and compostable, making it an eco-friendly choice. Bambu’s dinnerware is dishwasher safe and comes in a range of colors and styles.
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Why Choose Eco-Friendly Dinnerware Sets?
Traditional dinnerware is often made with harmful chemicals that can have negative effects on human health and the environment. PFAS, a group of toxic chemicals, are commonly used to make disposable plates and bowls water and grease-resistant. PFAS are linked to reproductive issues, developmental damage, increased risks of certain cancers, and more. Additionally, disposable dinnerware made from styrofoam is not recyclable and takes 500 years to decompose, emitting 21 million tons of CO2 annually.
Reusable dinnerware made from plastic, ceramic, or porcelain may also contain petroleum-based coatings or heavy metals, which can cause health problems such as hormone disruption, reproductive problems, and cancer.
Eco-friendly dinnerware sets made from sustainable materials such as bamboo, recycled glass, and biodegradable materials are a better option for those looking to reduce their environmental impact and live sustainably. These materials are responsibly sourced, compostable, and recyclable, making them a zero-waste kitchen solution.
Sustainable dinnerware sets made from bamboo fiber, recycled materials, and compostable materials are not only eco-friendly but also stylish. They can add an aesthetic element to any dinner party and elevate the dining experience.
Choosing eco-friendly dinnerware sets is a small but impactful step towards sustainable living and reducing pollution. By opting for sustainably-sourced materials, individuals can make a positive impact on the environment and their health. It is important to be aware of greenwashing, which is when companies falsely claim their products are eco-friendly. It is recommended to do research and choose dinnerware sets made from sustainably-sourced materials from reputable companies.
In summary, choosing eco-friendly dinnerware sets made from sustainable materials is a responsible and stylish choice that benefits both the environment and human health.
How We Found The Best Sustainable Dinnerware Brands
When it comes to choosing sustainable dinnerware, it’s important to consider several factors, including the materials used, certifications, supply chain and labor practices, green business practices, and community and charitable giving. In this section, we’ll break down each of these factors to help you find the best eco-friendly dinnerware brands.
Materials
Sustainable materials are crucial when it comes to choosing eco-friendly dinnerware. The most important factor to consider is whether the dinnerware is non-toxic and free of harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, nanoparticles, heavy metals, PTFEs, PFOAs, and PFAs. Some eco-friendly dinnerware materials include:
- Ceramic: 100% recyclable and made from naturally-occurring raw materials (clay).
- Stoneware: Made like ceramics, but with a specific type of clay that’s fired at a higher temperature, making it more durable.
- Porcelain: Made with silica, flint, and clay and fired at a higher temperature, making it more durable than earthenware and stoneware.
- Bone china: Porcelain with ground animal bone added to the clay, making it even more durable and long-lasting.
- Bamboo: Can make for sustainable compostable tableware, but must be natural with only plant-based finishes to ensure complete biodegradability.
- Stainless steel: One of the Earth’s most readily recyclable materials, but not microwave safe.
- Glass: Made from sand, making it one of the best responsible materials, especially if it’s recycled glass dinnerware.
Vintage or recycled dinnerware is also a sustainable option, but be wary of plastic as it can leach toxic chemicals into food.
Certifications
Certifications are a great way to ensure that the dinnerware you’re buying is truly eco-friendly and sustainable. Look for certifications like Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC), USDA BioPreferred, USDA organic, NSF, MADE SAFE®, B Corp, SA8000, Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI), ISO 9901, fair trade, and Sedex.
Supply Chain and Labor Practices
It’s important to consider the supply chain and labor practices of eco-friendly tableware brands. Many brands create fair trade dinnerware using ethical practices like providing living wages and promoting safe and respectful working conditions for their artisans. Look for certifications like B Corp, SA8000, Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI), ISO 9901, fair trade, and Sedex.
Green Business Practices
Green business practices are also important when it comes to choosing sustainable dinnerware. Look for brands that have locally-based supply chains, use carbon offset programs, and use sustainable or recycled materials for packaging.
Community & Charitable Giving
While not necessary, it’s great when sustainable brands can invite their local and global communities to the dinner table through charitable donations or partnerships.
Final Thoughts On Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Dinnerware Brands
Choosing sustainable and eco-friendly dinnerware doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By considering factors like materials, certifications, supply chain and labor practices, green business practices, and community and charitable giving, you can find the best eco-friendly dinnerware brands for your needs. Whether you choose to buy new or upcycled dinnerware, sharing a wholesome meal on sustainable dinnerware is a great way to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
