Healthy alternatives

Bee’s wrap to replace cellophane

  • Bee’s Wrap is a sustainable, reusable, and non-toxic alternative to plastic wraps like cellophane. Made from organic cotton infused with beeswax, tree resin, and jojoba oil, Bee’s Wrap is a safe option for wrapping food, covering bowls, or storing leftovers.
  • Unlike plastic wraps, Bee’s Wrap does not contain harmful chemicals like phthalates or BPA, and it’s compostable at the end of its life.

Glass jars (Pyrex)

  • Glass jars, like those from Pyrex, are a safer alternative to plastic containers. They are free from harmful chemicals such as BPA and phthalates, and they can be used for food storage, meal prep, and even reheating.
  • Glass is non-reactive, which means it won’t leach any chemicals into your food, even when heated. It’s also highly durable and can be reused for many years, reducing waste.

Glass or stainless steel kettles

  • Avoid plastic kettles, which may contain harmful chemicals like BPA. Glass or stainless steel kettles are a safer alternative and do not release toxic compounds when heated.
  • These materials are durable, long-lasting, and free from plastics, reducing the risk of chemical leaching, especially when boiling water for hot drinks or cooking.

Paper or glass baking moulds

  • Many baking molds, especially silicone ones, can release toxic chemicals when exposed to high temperatures. Paper or glass baking molds are excellent alternatives for a healthier baking experience.
  • Paper and glass molds do not contain the synthetic chemicals that can leach into food when heated, such as bisphenol A (BPA) or other harmful compounds found in silicone.

Cast iron frying pans and casseroles

  • Cast iron is a fantastic alternative to non-stick pans that contain PTFE (Teflon) or PFOA, which can release toxic compounds at high temperatures.
  • Cast iron is durable, naturally non-stick (once seasoned), and does not leach harmful chemicals into your food. It’s a healthier, long-lasting investment for cooking.

Tips

Avoid using Teflon-coated pans or cake pans. Teflon is the registered trademark of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). At high temperatures, it can release toxic, endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as PFOA or PFOS, which are banned in Canada. Manufacturers sometimes alter a molecule slightly, change its name, and market the new non-stick product as “safe,” even though it may behave similarly or produce harmful by-products when heated. The best option is to choose safer alternatives, such as those listed on this page.

Prefer glass jars and Bee’s wrap to plastic packaging (cellophane, plastic containers).

Replace the plastic in your environment with less toxic materials. In the kitchen, for utensils subject to heat, choose cast iron, glass or paper.

Avoid the following chemicals in regular products

  1. Aluminium
  • Aluminium is a neurotoxin and skin sensitizer that may also disrupt your body’s hormonal balance.
  • Aluminium is commonly used in cookware, foil, and some food containers.
  • Alternative: Use stainless steel, cast iron, or glass products instead.
  1. Bisphenol A (BPA)
  • BPA is an endocrine disruptor that can interfere with the hormonal systems of both men and women. It has been linked to various health problems, including fertility issues and increased risk of certain cancers.
  • BPA is often used in plastics such as water bottles, food containers, and food can linings.
  • Alternative: Choose BPA-free plastics, glass, or stainless steel containers.
  1. Phthalate
  • Phthalates are endocrine disruptors and can also be irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. They are often used to make plastics more flexible.
  • Phthalates are present in plastics, especially in products like food wraps, plastic utensils, and bottles.
  • Alternative: Use glass, wood, or stainless steel materials for kitchenware and storage.
  1. Plastics (General)
  • May contain harmful chemicals like hydrocarbons, phthalates, and BPA, which disrupt hormones.
  • Common uses include food containers, packaging, bottles, and household products.
  • Alternative: Opt for glass, stainless steel, or natural materials like wood and ceramic.
  1. Polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon)
  • PTFE (Teflon) is a synthetic polymer that can release harmful chemicals like PFOA and PFOS at high temperatures. These chemicals have been linked to cancer and reproductive issues.
  • Teflon is used in non-stick cookware and some bakeware.
  • Alternative: Opt for cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic-coated pans instead.