Lauren Mahesri is a pediatric dietitian and the founder of The Pediatric Dietitian, specializing in picky eating, sports nutrition, and easy recipes for the whole family.
As a pediatric dietitian and mom, I know every choice for our kids is a balance between what’s healthiest, what’s convenient, and what they’ll actually enjoy. We spend so much energy thinking about what our kids are eating that we forget about what they're eating off of.
But the plate itself actually matters more than most people realize. It can impact how food tastes, what chemicals your kiddo comes in contact with, and whether your picky eater is willing to try something new.
Here's why I always choose stainless steel.
1. Stainless Steel Is 100% Non-Toxic
The constant cycle of using, washing, and heating can wear down plates over time and cause chemicals to transfer onto food. And kids are especially sensitive to this! Their bodies are still learning to process and get rid of chemicals while growing and developing. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends avoiding putting plastic in the dishwasher or microwaving food in plastic containers for exactly this reason, and suggests using glass or stainless steel instead.
Stainless steel is non-toxic, which means it won’t release any chemicals into food no matter how many times it’s heated, washed, or used. That includes PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances), also known as “forever chemicals” because they can accumulate in our bodies over time. These chemicals are sometimes added to plastic and coated materials to make them grease and water resistant.
→ Lalo's stainless steel collection is made with food-grade stainless steel and BPA-free food-grade silicone. This meets and exceeds ASTM safety standards and is Prop 65 compliant, two of the most rigorous safety certifications available for kids products.
2. Plastic and Silicone Can Lead to Picky Eating
Plastic and silicone can do something called "flavor scalping," which means they absorb the flavors and odors of whatever was on them last. So of course your kiddo is refusing their yogurt at breakfast—it tastes like last night's spaghetti and dish soap!
Because stainless steel doesn't absorb anything, the food's flavor is more consistent every time, which makes a real difference for kids who are already sensitive to new tastes and textures.
→ If you have a picky eater, try a clean stainless steel plate, a food they already like, and nothing else on the plate to start. Sometimes simplifying the plate itself is enough to get them to engage with their food.
3. Stainless Steel Is Built to Last
Stainless steel can handle the drops, throws, and the toddler who decides their plate is a percussion instrument. It won't crack, warp, or wear down the way other materials do over time.
Plus, it won't stain. Tomato sauce, berries, turmeric — none of it leaves a mark.
And because it stays in great shape no matter how many times it goes through the dishwasher, you're not constantly replacing it as it gets scratched up and worn out. Because they hold up so well, they can be passed down to younger siblings or donated, unlike plastic plates that eventually wear out and need replacing.
4. Stainless Steel Is the Easiest Kids Plate to Clean
Stainless steel has a smooth, non-porous surface, so food, grease, and bacteria sit on top instead of soaking in. This means it washes off quickly and doesn’t hold onto stains or odors like plastic or silicone can.
It also handles hot water and dishwashers well without getting warped or worn. This helps break down residue and keep it truly clean without the sticky buildup you sometimes notice on other materials.
5. Stainless Steel is the Only Material That's Truly 100% Plastic-Free (If you choose right)
This is where the brand really matters. Many products highlight stainless steel but still include plastic components like lids or coatings, which can carry the same potential leaching concerns as fully plastic products. A fully stainless steel design in the areas where your child’s food actually touches helps avoid that.
→ Lalo's Stainless Steel line is food-grade stainless steel where it counts, with BPA-free food-grade silicone used only where food doesn't touch. No plastic coatings or hidden components in the food contact areas, even the straws!
Lauren Mahesri is a pediatric dietitian and the founder of The Pediatric Dietitian, specializing in picky eating, sports nutrition, and easy recipes for the whole family. As a new mom to a baby girl, she enjoys crafting recipes that work for busy lives and the pickiest of eaters.
