A guide to safer, sustainable lunch packing
With growing publicity and even the ban of some PFAS chemicals in Australia coming into force in 2025, we are being asked more often:
“Could my child’s lunch box or lunch bag contain PFAS?”
The short answer: unfortunately, yes sometimes.
Along with chemicals like PVC, phthalates and bisphenols BPA, we need to be ever vigilant of what manufacturers use as they are rarely tested for safety before being widely adopted!
Let’s unpack what PFAS are, where they may be hiding in lunch gear, and how to make safer, more eco-friendly choices for school and work lunches.
What are PFAS?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of synthetic chemicals used to make materials water-resistant, stain-resistant and grease-resistant. In other words, many of the conveniences we would love to find in lunch gear! PFAS are known to be used in:
- Food packaging (to make linings waterproof)
- Waterproof fabrics
- Non-stick coatings
- Lunch bags and liners
PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily in the environment — and they can build up in our bodies and similarly never go away.
Why are people concerned about PFAS?
Long-term PFAS exposure has been credibly linked to:
- Hormone disruption
- Immune system effects
- Developmental concerns
- Increased cancer risk
Children are particularly vulnerable because their bodies are still developing and they have higher exposure per body weight. Learn more here in our blog about the health risks of PFAS.
Can lunch boxes and lunch bags contain PFAS?
Yes, especially products marketed as:
- “Water-resistant”
- “Stain-repellent”
- “Grease-proof”
- “Durable water repellent (DWR)”
These performance features often rely on chemical coatings that may include PFAS.
PFAS have also been found in some plastic sandwich bags and food wraps, where the chemicals can migrate into food — especially hot or fatty foods.
Which lunch gear is most likely to contain PFAS?
Higher-risk items include:
- Soft insulated lunch bags with waterproof coatings
- Fabric bags treated to resist spills
- Disposable plastic sandwich bags and ziplock bags
- Grease-resistant food packaging
Options unlikely to contain PFAS:
- Stainless steel lunch boxes without lining
- Glass food containers
- Untreated canvas, linen or jute lunch bags
- PEVA-lined lunch bags (without chemical coatings)
How to tell if a product is PFAS-free
There’s no universal PFAS label — but here’s what helps:
🚫 Be cautious of:
- “Waterproof”
- “Stain-resistant”
- “Grease-repellent”
- “DWR coating”
✅ Look for:
- “PFAS-free”, “No PFCs added”, "DWR free"
- Clear material transparency
- Natural or untreated fabrics
- Stainless steel, glass or food-grade silicone
When brands are open about their materials, that’s a good sign.
Sustainable alternatives to reduce PFAS exposure
At Biome, we focus on solutions that are both low-tox and low-waste.
Here are practical, planet-friendly ways to pack lunches more safely:
1. Reusable zippered fabric bags
Organic cotton or fabric snack bags with non-toxic waterproof linings are perfect for kids.
They’re washable, durable, and replace disposable plastic bags — reducing waste and chemical exposure.
2. Beeswax-coated fabric wraps and pouches
Beeswax wraps mould around sandwiches, fruit and snacks.
They’re reusable, compostable, and a beautiful alternative to plastic wrap.
3. Glass, stainless steel, or food grade silicone containers
These materials don’t rely on chemical coatings and are highly durable.
- Stainless steel: Lightweight, tough, ideal for school
- Food grade Silicone: Flexible, safe and long-lasting
- Glass: Great for home or older students
4. Choose trusted brands carefully
Some plastic bag brands test PFAS-free — but there’s no legal requirement for consistent testing or disclosure.
Reducing reliance on single-use plastics is the safest approach.
Can PFAS be in silicone products?
Great question, and one we’re asked often. Despite the marketing as a "plastic free" alternative "from sand", silicone is still made using petrochemicals and is very close to a plastic.
Pure, food-grade silicone itself does NOT contain PFAS.
However:
- Some silicone products may have surface treatments or coatings
- Very low-quality silicone blends can contain unknown additives
That’s why it’s important to choose:
- Food-grade or platinum-cured silicone
- Brands that disclose materials clearly
- Products without performance coatings
At Biome, we prioritise transparent, responsibly sourced materials.
Why sustainable choices matter
Reducing PFAS exposure isn’t just about health — it’s about protecting waterways, wildlife and future generations.
By choosing:
Reusables over disposables
Natural materials over treated plastics
Transparent brands over vague claims
You’re making a meaningful impact, one lunch at a time.
Quick FAQ
Are stainless steel lunch boxes PFAS-free?
Yes — as long as they don’t have chemical coatings or treated linings. Please note that many stainless steel lunch boxes do have silicone liners or lids to make them leak proof. These can be safe plastics and generally are fine because the food is not sitting in the lid.
Are all silicone products safe?
Food-grade silicone is PFAS-free, but quality and transparency matter.
Are “water-resistant” lunch bags safe?
Not always. That wording often signals chemical coatings.
What’s the safest lunch packing option for kids?
Stainless steel containers and fabric or beeswax wraps.
Key takeaways
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PFAS are used in some lunch bags and food packaging
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They can migrate into food
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Safer, sustainable alternatives exist
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Choosing low-tox products protects health and the planet
