The Ultimate Guide to Safe, Low-Tox Baby Feeding Products in South Africa

As parents, we’re more conscious than ever about what we bring into our homes — especially when it comes to products our babies use every single day. Feeding products touch food, mouths, hands, and developing bodies, yet they’re often overlooked when we think about safety and long-term health. However this is shifting as the drive towards low-tox and safe baby feeding products is well underway.

In South Africa, more parents are asking important questions:

• Are plastic feeding products safe?

• Is silicone actually non-toxic?

• Is stainless steel better for babies and toddlers?

• What feeding products are really worth investing in?

This guide breaks it all down in simple, practical terms — so you can make confident, informed choices for your family.

What Does “Low-Tox” Really Mean?

“Low-tox” refers to products designed to minimise exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, especially during early development.

Babies and toddlers are more vulnerable because:

• Their bodies are still developing

• They eat, chew, mouth, and drop feeding items constantly

• Their detox systems are not fully mature

When it comes to feeding products, low-tox usually means avoiding materials that may contain:

• BPA (Bisphenol A)

• Phthalates

• PVC

• Heavy metals

• Harmful plasticisers

Low-tox products focus on safer materials, fewer additives, and durability — so items don’t break down quickly over time.

Common Feeding Product Materials Explained

Let’s look at the most common materials used in baby feeding products and how they compare and what is actually low-tox, safe and what is not.

Plastic Feeding Products

Plastic is widely used because it’s cheap and lightweight, but not all plastics are created equal.

Pros:

• Affordable

• Lightweight

• Easy to find

Cons:

• Can degrade over time

• More prone to scratches (where bacteria can hide)

• Some plastics may leach chemicals when heated or worn

• Shorter lifespan — often replaced frequently

  
  

Even “BPA-free” plastic can still contain other additives that parents may want to avoid.

Silicone Feeding Products

Food-grade silicone has become very popular — and for good reason.

Pros:

• Flexible and durable

• Heat-resistant

• BPA-free, PVC-free, phthalate-free

• Gentle on gums and teeth

• Easy to clean

Considerations:

• Quality matters — not all silicone is equal

• Should be food-grade and properly tested

• Over time it absorbs odours, stains, but most importanly it changes the taste of your childs food. If your child is refusing to eat, this might be the source, a quick taste test can verify it for you.

High-quality silicone is considered a safe, low-tox option when sourced responsibly, however is only durable for a short while (due to the odour and foul taste retention) and will need to be replaced constantly.

Stainless Steel Feeding Products

Stainless steel is often overlooked for babies, but it’s one of the most durable and low-tox materials available.

Pros:

• Extremely durable

• Does not leach chemicals

• Long lifespan (often lasts years)

• Easy to clean and sterilise

• Recyclable and sustainable

Considerations:

• Higher upfront cost

• Needs silicone bases or sleeves for grip and noise reduction as well as delaying those dings and dents.

For many families, stainless steel becomes the long-term investment option — especially as children grow or they plan on having more children.

How to Choose Baby Feeding Products That Last

When choosing feeding products, think beyond the newborn phase.

Ask yourself:

• Will this still work when my baby becomes a toddler?

• Is it easy to clean daily?

• Can it handle drops, throws, and travel?

• Will I need to replace it often?

Look for:

• Minimal plastic

• Food-grade materials

• Products that grow with your child

• Neutral designs that don’t feel “babyish” after one year

Long-lasting products often cost more upfront but save money over time.

Common Feeding Problems (And Smarter Solutions)

Problem: Constant Mess

Messy meals are normal — but poor product design can make it worse.

Solution:

Non-slip bases, stable bowls, and well-designed plates help reduce spills and frustration. Buying toddler sized plates help to keep the mess contained as opposed to a small bowl.

Problem: Food Waste

Spills and tipping mean wasted food.

Solution:

Secure plates, better portioning, and feeding tools sized for small hands.

Problem: Products Breaking or Warping

Cheap feeding items often crack, stain, or warp quickly.

Solution:

Durable materials like stainless steel and high-quality silicone.

Problem: Buying Over and Over Again

Many parents end up replacing feeding items every few months.

Solution:

Investing once in durable, low-tox products designed to last through multiple stages. Choosing toddler sized items over small baby-sized items to avoid having to buy again 6 months in to your feeding journey.

Why South African Parents Are Re-Thinking Feeding Products

Across South Africa, parents are becoming more intentional about:

• Reducing household plastic

• Choosing products with longer lifespans

• Supporting locally owned, values-driven brands

• Making fewer but better purchases

Rising costs have also made families more conscious of value over time, not just price at checkout.

Junary’s Approach to Low-Tox Feeding

Junary was created from lived experience — feeding real children, dealing with real frustrations from odour, staining, difficulty to clean and taste-altering crockery, and wanting products that simply work better.

Our approach is based on:

• Thoughtfully chosen low-tox materials

• Stainless steel and food-grade silicone

• Durable designs that grow with your child

• Fewer replacements, less waste

• Practical solutions for modern South African families

We believe feeding products should support parents — not create more frustration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are silicone feeding products safe for babies?

Yes, food-grade silicone is considered safe when properly manufactured and tested. Quality matters.

Is stainless steel better than plastic?

Stainless steel is one of the most durable and low-tox options available. It does not leach chemicals and lasts significantly longer than plastic.

Do eco-friendly baby products really make a difference?

Over time, yes. Durable products reduce waste, replacements, and long-term costs — benefiting both families and the environment.

What feeding products do I really need?

Most families only need:

• A stable plate or bowl

• A reliable cup

• Child-friendly cutlery

• Optional accessories for convenience

Less clutter, better quality.

Final Thoughts

Choosing safe, low-tox baby feeding products doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding materials, prioritising durability, and investing in thoughtfully designed products, you can simplify feeding — and feel confident about what your child uses every day.