Looming health hazards of synthetic chemical repellents

As temperatures rise and mosquitoes hatch in swarms, the danger of toxic chemicals loom in common household repellents. 

Chemically produced mosquito repellents pose a threat to user’s health and the environment.

N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET) is a chemical used in most commercial repellents and can reside in the form of liquid, lotion, spray and permeated material. DEET is listed as an insecticide and is part of the toluene chemical group, a chemical used in glues and paint strippers. Rather than killing insects, DEET works by making it difficult for them to sense humans. The most common application for DEET repellents is to apply them directly to the skin which pose a threat to user’s health.

Our skin is the largest organ of our body, therefore almost anything applied to it has a significant chance of being absorbed and carried through the bloodstream. Research completed by The Medical Sciences Bulletin uncovered up to 56 per cent of DEET is capable of penetrating the skin when topically applied with up to 17 per cent being absorbed into the bloodstream.   This Time article looks at Is DEET Safe?

It is not only topical repellents that are dangerous, mosquito coils are equally toxic. Mosquito coils contain a combination of chemicals including various pyrethroids and when burnt release numerous known human carcinogens including aldehyde, formaldehyde, small particles and several benzene derivatives. Some coils can contain Octachlorodipropylether (S-2) which expose humans to bis-chloromethyl ether (BCME), an extremely intoxicating lung carcinogen.

Studies have revealed one active mosquito coil produces the equivalent particulate matter as burning approximately 75 to 137 cigarettes with the percentage of formaldehyde emissions equal to burning 51 cigarettes. Chest Research Foundation has revealed the lung damage caused by one mosquito coil is equivalent to inhaling 100 cigarettes.

There are effective non toxic pest control alternatives that pose no threat to a user’s health. Essential oils such as lemon eucalyptus, geranium, soybean, citronella, fennel, thyme, clove oil, celery extract, neem oil and picaridin are effective at repelling mosquitoes and are available in various application forms. Sandalwood is also an effective natural repellent and provides a safe alternative to mosquito coils.

Although mosquitoes can be irritating, it is important to protect yourself and your family’s health by reducing the number of toxic chemicals they are exposed to.


Related: Why is BPA the only concern?; What toxic chemicals are in your toothpaste?; What is in your sunscreen? 

EU unveils plan for largest ever ban on dangerous chemicals 

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The Benefits of Natural DIY Skincare

Since when did skincare, even natural skin care, become so complicated. From anti-aging creams to pore minimising serums, we lather ourselves in creams, oils, scrubs and treatments promoting dubious claims but at the end of the day, are we just giving away our money to large profit driven companies?

Preying on people’s vulnerabilities and insecurities is an age-old marketing tactic that rakes in billions of dollars for global and Australian profit driven skin and beauty care corporations, for which most people fall victim to their marketing hype, fancy advertising campaigns and costly celebrity endorsements. We are promised eternal youth by big brands and fork out thousands of dollars for products with dubious claims in the hope of looking younger, but what we are truly paying for is the expensive promotional campaigns and not just the skin care products themselves.

A Global Industry Analysts report estimates the global anti-aging products market will peak at $120 billion by 2030. The multi-national corporations producing these products don’t truly care about you, your health or the environment. They only care about developing the next ‘miracle cream’ to boost their bottom line. Their products are mostly made from synthetic ingredients and are mass produced - some still test on animals.  

They present pseudo-scientific claims that make the product benefits believable to most people, increasing sales and demand, and because it’s a billion-dollar industry with mutually dependent industries such as manufacturing, retail and advertising, these claims are often misleading and rarely questioned or tested. The most empowering thing you can do as an independent consumer is to stop using the commercial skin care products and start making your own natural skin care products at home.

Biome's Naked Beauty Bar to make your own natural skin care products was formulated to combat this issue and offer a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical produced products. 

The Naked Beauty Bar takes a back to basics approach, allowing you to truly understand the ingredients in your products. Instead of purchasing expensive creams produced by global brands, you can make your own at home from a few simple natural ingredients. From lip balm and body scrub to natural deodorant and toothpaste, you can make various beauty products from naturally derived ingredients including clay, salt, avocado oil, ground coffee, shea and cocoa butter, honey, vinegar, sugar, soap berries, charcoal, essential oils, petals and herbs. These ingredients possess beneficial properties that nourish and heal the skin naturally. 

Don’t fall victim to large corporations elaborate promotional campaigns and pseudoscientific claims. Save money by making your own natural skin care products at home.

There is a growing trend to market 'special skin care' to the tween age or pre-teens (10 to 12 years old).   It really is unnecessary to introduce children so young to a skin care routine with special packaged tween skin care such as cleaners and moisturisers.  It is good for tweens to use gentle cleaners (such as a natural moisturising hand made olive oil soap) and washer. Tweens rarely need a moisturiser, but should wear a sunscreen on days they will be outside.


Related: Natural toxin free deodorant; Cutting chemicals out of cosmetics; What is in your sunscreen?  How to Nourish Your Body with Hemp Oil

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What is a circular economy?

Image by circular.flanders (on Instagram)

What is a circular economy?

A circular economy is based on a regenerative system where resources input and waste are reduced by recycling, reusing and repurposing everything. It's a contrast to a linear economy which is structured on a 'take, make and dispose' system.

A circular economy is designed to extract the maximum value from the resources used in the initial development of products. This requires innovation from businesses to discover new ways to use existing materials rather than disposing them; and resourceful thinking from individuals to repurpose old or worn items.

 

Why is a circular economy important?

Along with forging new opportunities for product innovation and business development, a circular economy also helps to significantly reduce waste by keeping resources in a closed loop system for as long as possible. 

From start-ups to global companies, initiatives and innovations are beginning to form the cornerstone of business production models as waste continues to mount. TerraCycle, an international recycling and upcycling company, is a great example of a circular economy initiative that takes hard-to-recycle packaging and turns it into affordable, innovative products. From plastic pens and coffee pods to gloves and beauty packaging, TerraCycle collects and recycles these products eliminating them from landfill. TerraCycle has currently recycled over 3,783,212,164 pieces of waste.

How you can help

A circular economy relies heavily on consuming differently such as reusing products for as long as possible, recycling and upcycling. We can all work towards creating a circular economy in our own lives by repairing broken objects, buying second hand items, buying and using reusable items, recycling and finding a new purpose for old items. Below is a list of ways you can participate in a circular economy within your household.

1. Refurbish old furniture;
2. Mend worn clothing;
3. Recycle as much as you can;
4. Compost instead of purchasing fertiliser;
5. Use reusable products such as a KeepCup, shopping bag, produce bags and water bottle;
6. Shop at second hand stores;
7. Buy new products made using recycled materials instead of virgin materials;
8. Repurpose objects instead of discarding them;
9. Try to live zero waste as much as possible; and
10. Borrow and share household items instead of buying new ones.

Related: Shave waste free and save the environment; The environmental problem with palm oil; How to create a plastic free pantry

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Hemp food approved for consumption

Touted for its significant health benefits, it is likely hemp will rise to be Australia’s new favourite superfood.

After years of lobbying, national and state food minsters recently approved the consumption of low- tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) hemp seed foods in Australia. Commonly misconceived due to its close relations to marijuana, hemp consumption was prohibited in Australia due to concerns it would alter roadside and workplace drug tests. However, the recent approval for hemp consumption has given the green light on this new superfood, giving Australians the opportunity to boost their health with a protein rich and environmentally friendly food source.

When you review the health and environmental qualities of hemp, it stands out among its counterparts. Hemp as a food source contains various vitamins, minerals, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, including omega-3 fatty acids. It contains all 10 essential amino acids plus 14 fatty acids, making it a complete protein and one of the best plant-based proteins for vegans. Unlike marijuana, industrial hemp grown to produce food and other hemp materials contains much lower levels of the mind-altering chemical THC. Industrial hemp only contains approximately 0.3 to 1.5 percent of THC whereas marijuana can contain 5 to 10 percent or more.

Hemp is a highly sustainable quick growing plant that requires little water to produce, and is naturally resistant to pests which means it does not require chemical pesticides or herbicides. Unlike cotton and flax which can adsorb up to 50 percent of the pesticides sprayed on them. For farmers, hemp can be used as a rotational crop between planting periods. Its thick foliage and dense growth prevents sunlight reaching the soil which aids in reduce weed growth. The plant helps to replenish nutrients and improve soil tilth, reduce salinity, and absorb toxic metals from the soil. At its end of life, hemp can be recycled, reused or composted as it ire environmentally friendly thamore environemntally ore are limited in their scope and can be inconclusive, however as a conscis 100 per cent biodegradable.


Related: Shave waste free and save the environment; Battling Australia’s bottled water crisis; The state of Australia’s waste    

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The environmental problem with palm oil

The world is currently bordering on witnessing the utter consequences of a significant environmental disaster. The global consumption of palm oil intensified by recent decades of commercial demand has dramatically increased production, causing catastrophic and widespread environmental destruction. Found in a vast range of commercial products, palm oil is directly linked to several environmental issues including mass deforestation, animal cruelty, habitat degradation and fragmentation, climate change, exploitation of indigenous rights, and impending extinction of certain endangered species. Without consumer awareness and objection, the effects of unsustainable palm oil will likely join the ranks of the world’s worst environmental disasters facilitated by humans. 

Over 60 million tons of palm oil is produced each year with estimations of it doubling over the next decade. With the highest rate of deforestation in the world, Indonesia is also the highest producer of palm oil, supplying over 61 percent to global markets with Malaysia following close behind. These two countries combined produce almost 90 percent of the world’s palm oil on three islands, Borneo, Sumatra and Papua. Palm oil is extracted from the fruit of the African oil palm which grows rapidly in monoculture plantations in peatlands pressing at the boundaries of the last protected areas of these forests. Around 300 football fields of the world’s most biologically diverse rainforests are felled every hour for palm oil plantations, killing around 6000 orangutans, plus Sumatran tigers and many other species every year.

Australians unknowingly consume on average 10 kilograms of palm oil each year and unclear food labelling makes it hard for people to exercise their consumer choice. Palm oil is a high yield and low cost versatile ingredient used extensively in most manufactured foods, cleaning products, body care, make up and bio fuels. Currently, there is a significant ‘glossing over’ occurring in the industry where most brands are choosing to not disclose the use of palm oil on their packaging. Inadequate government labelling regulations allow brands to hide palm oil behind more than 200 alternate names such as vegetable oil, Glycerine, Plant Surfactant and Caprylic Triglyceride, making it extremely confusing for consumers to identify. While some brands claim to be cruelty free and promote everything they do not contain, palm oil is used and hidden in their formulations. 

To further complicate the issue, there is substantial greenwashing around the term ‘sustainable palm oil’ which makes 99 percent of ‘sustainable palm oil’ claims unreliable. The industry’s self-regulating body the RSPO has developed a complex certification scheme that allows non-certified oil use such as GreenPalm to be labelled ‘sustainable’. The only 100 percent certain way to know if the palm oil used in a product is sustainable is to trace it back to plantation where it was grown, and this is almost impossible. The complex supply chain, hidden nature of palm oil use, and the fuzzy certification scheme have allowed manufacturers to get away with the guise of ‘sustainable palm oil’ for too long. For this reason, it is not possible to rely on a brand's assurances that they use ‘sustainable palm oil’ because they generally have not obtained thorough and legally binding commitments from their suppliers. 

Biome is 100% free from palm oil, and no longer stocks products with palm oil derived ingredients.

What can you do?

There are five ways you can avoid products containing palm oil and help reduce the destruction caused by palm oil cultivation.

1. Avoid all products containing palm oil, including processed and packaged foods;
2. Don’t trust claims including cruelty free, organic, vegan and sustainable palm oil;
3. Check ingredients lists for Glycerine, Plant Surfactant and Caprylic Triglyceride;
4. Adopt an orangutan or donate money to BOS Australia to help purchase a large block of rainforest on Borneo; and
5. Shop for palm oil free products at Biome.

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Why bamboo is better for your health and the environment

Most products currently sold to consumers are made from plastic. From pegs and coat hangers to toothbrushes and clothing. Over the years, the material has become engrained in manufacturing processes which is subsequently passed on to consumers through various product offerings.

Plastic is not only bad for the environment but it also impacts your health. The manufacturing process of plastic releases numerous harmful toxins in the production, transport and disposal of the material. When sent to landfill, the product can take hundreds of years to break down while leaching toxic chemicals into the environment. Bamboo is a healthier and more environmentally friendly alternative to plastic.

Bamboo is a naturally regenerative plant that is extremely resilient requiring minimal water and fertilisers. Its prolific nature makes it an incredibly sustainable plant as it grows at a much faster rate than trees and cotton. It takes approximately 25 to 70 years for some trees to reach maturity opposed to bamboo which reaches maturity within four years. It is also 100 per cent biodegradable and compostable making its complete lifecycle more environmentally friendly than other materials.

The unique manufacturing methods of bamboo fibre help to combat the environmental impacts caused by plastic and unsustainable deforestation. It can be manufactured into various materials including construction, paper and homewares.

Bamboo provides great health benefits for allergy sufferers as it is naturally antibacterial and hypo-allergenic. Its non-toxic nature makes it a safe material for manufacturing products for oral use such as toothbrushes. There are many household items you can replace with sustainable bamboo products including tissues, kitchen utensils, toys, clothing, flooring, pegs, hairbrushes, bedding and towels. Swapping some of your plastic household items for bamboo alternatives will positively impact your health and the environment.

Related: How to get rid of insects in house naturally; Plastic free living ; The state of Australia’s waste

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The health impacts of synthetic fragrance

Synthetic fragrance is now infused in the most basic household products used daily, from toothpaste and cosmetics to washing powder and bin liners. Society is suffering with the excessive use of synthetic fragrance and its effects on people with sensitivities are beginning to show. Research completed by Professor Anne Steinemann from the University of Melbourne has revealed one third of Australians experience health problems when exposed to fragrance including migraines, dizziness, nausea, skin irritation, asthma attacks and seizures.

Initially derived from flowers and used sparingly, fragrance is now chemically produced to make it more cost effective than natural versions. Over 4000 chemicals are available for the self-regulated fragrance industry to use in the production of their products, and due to proprietary knowledge regulations, the industry is not legally required to reveal the specific ingredients used in each product. Most of the chemicals used in the fragrance industry have previously never been tested for their health effects and the ones that have been tested are allocated a safe dose due to low usage levels, however this does not account for the thousands of other chemicals a person is exposed to throughout the day.

Due to the health impacts of synthetic fragrance, it is likely in the coming years fragrance in the workplace will follow the same trajectory as smoking. The study found 7.7 per cent of Australians leave work for the day or resign, and 16.7 per cent leave a shop due to illness from fragranced product exposure.

While there aren’t any laws enforcing fragrance-free workplaces in Australia, there are precautions you can take to reduce your daily exposure to these chemicals. Purchasing fragrance-free products will significantly reduce your exposure. If you are affected by fragrance within your workplace, address your concerns with management and discuss options about enforcing a fragrance-free policy within the office. To learn more about the research into the science of scent, read Kate Grenville's book The Case Against Fragrance. This insightful and thought provoking book uncovers the truth about the production of synthetic fragrance and its heath impacts on society.

Related: Cutting chemicals out of cosmetics; What toxic chemicals are in your toothpaste?; Why is BPA the only concern?

 

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Cutting chemicals out of cosmetics

The inexplicable rise of certain health conditions along with research conducted on the health impacts of chemicals raises concerns about the safety of ingredients in chemical produced personal care products. Beauty is one industry where the use of chemicals in the production of personal care products is unsystematically monitored and tested.

The beauty industry selects from a palette of approximately 12,500 chemical ingredients to produce a range of products with the average chemical produced beauty product containing between 15 to 50 ingredients. Each product formulation varies slightly, however, most cosmetics contain a concoction of ingredients including water, fragrances, emulsifiers, emollients, colouring agents, preservatives, thickening agents, and pH stabilisers. Most of the chemicals used in beauty products have previously never been tested for their health effects and the ones that have been tested are allocated a safe dose due to low usage levels, however this does not account for the thousands of other chemicals a person is exposed to throughout the day.  

The main chemicals of concern used in the production of cosmetics include Phthalates, Parabens, Talcum powder, Nanoparticles, Formaldehyde and formaldehyde donors, Lead acetate, Coal tar, UV filters, Triclosan, Resorcinol, Toluene and Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) due to their links to cancer and hormone disruption. Furthermore, the production and disposal of these chemicals affect our environment with most beauty waste being washed down the drains, threatening marine biodiversity and the quality of our oceans and waterways.   

Research has uncovered women use around 9 and 15 beauty products daily, applying approximately 515 chemicals to their skin through the use of cosmetics, beauty products and perfumes. Making your own natural beauty products at home is an easy and affordable way to significantly reduce your daily exposure to chemicals. Using a small selection of natural ingredients, you can make your own chemical free deodorant, mascara, face mask, body scrub, toothpaste and more. Switching to a natural alternative is better for your health and the environment.

Related: What is in your sunscreen?; Looming health hazards of synthetic chemical repellents; Natural toxin free deodorant

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What toxic chemicals are in your toothpaste?

Toothpaste developed by multinational corporations is commonly formulated using a combination of toxic ingredients recognised, to a certain degree, for their health risks. Ingredients such a Triclosan, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Artificial Sweeteners and Fluoride are used in most commercial brands. The mouth’s oral mucosa is one of the most absorbent areas of the body, therefore anything placed inside the mouth has a high chance of being absorbed and transferred into the bloodstream. This is concerning when chemically produced toothpaste is used widely everyday by both children and adults.

One widely promoted and used toothpaste, particularly in Australia is Colgate Total. Its claims promise 12-hour complete oral care protection against plaque and gingivitis. The chemical used in its formulations of this toothpaste is Triclosan, an antibacterial compound linked to various health concerns.

Toothpaste is one of the most potent delivery vehicles for Triclosan. Although the chemical can prevent gingivitis, it has also been linked to numerous health concerns including antibiotic resistance, endocrine disruption and breast cancer progression. Endocrine disrupting chemicals can be the cause for several adverse developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immune effects. Triclosan also has close links with dioxin, a highly carcinogenic chemical that can weaken the immune system, decrease fertility, cause miscarriages, birth defects and cancer.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a chemical used in most toothpastes to promote the foaming action of the paste. This chemical is used in thousands of beauty products and industrial cleaners as a surfactant, detergent and emulsifier. Although SLS naturally occurs in coconuts, the chemical form is usually combined with various chemicals to produce desired results including dioxin, a carcinogenic by-product that has been linked to cancer.

When SLS is used in toothpaste, it affects your taste buds by breaking up the phospholipids on your tongue. This chemical is responsible for changing the taste of food and drinks after brushing as it enhances bitter tastes. SLS is not only bad for our health but for our environment as well. The manufacturing process of this chemical releases carcinogenic volatile organic compounds into the environment.

Made up of aspartic acid and phenylalanine, Aspartame is a common chemical in most artificial sweeteners added to commercial toothpastes to enhance the flavour. The chemical Phenylalanine has been adapted to contain a methyl group which is known as a phenylalanine methyl bond called methyl ester. This bond is frail which can easily detach the methyl group from the phenylalanine causing it to form methanol. Although methanol is found in fruit and vegetables, it is firmly bonded to pectin which allows it to be safely passed through your digestive tract.

Methanol created by aspartame is not bonded to anything which causes the body to process it rather then let it pass through the body. When processed by the body, the methyl alcohol travels through your bloodstream and penetrates sensitive areas including your brain which is then converted to formaldehyde, damaging tissue and causing other serious health concerns. Symptoms from methanol poisoning can include headaches, ear buzzing, dizziness, nausea, gastrointestinal disturbances, weakness, vertigo, chills, memory lapses, numbness, and shooting pains in the extremities, behavioural disturbances, and neuritis.

Fluoride is thought to be the best ingredient for preventing tooth decay, however recent studies indicate it may not be as effective as once thought. The study discovered the layer of fluorapatite build up on your teeth from fluoride is only six nanometres thick. The thickness can be comparable to 10,000 of these layers measuring the same width as a strand of hair. This is causing scientists to question the strength and protective abilities of this ultra-thin layer.

Fluoride is a toxic chemical that builds up in your body over time and causes various health problems. It is particularly concerning for children using fluoride toothpaste as studies have found fluoride to be the single biggest source of intake for young children due to them swallowing a large amount during brushing. This can cause several health issues including disfiguring dental fluorosis, a symptom of fluoride poisoning. Research has recognised that children can swallow more fluoride from toothpaste alone than their recommended daily intake.

Organic and natural toothpastes are effective in providing complete oral care without the toxic chemicals. Most natural toothpastes used ingredients including bentonite clay, coconut oil, baking soda, salt, peppermint oil and water. You can make your own natural toothpaste at home. It’s easy, affordable and most importantly, toxin free.


Related: How to detox your home;  Zero waste toxin free washing; Natural toxin free deodorant

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What is in your sunscreen?

Choosing a sunscreen can be hard. There are numerous options on the market that offer various levels of protection and contain countless ingredients both of which can be good and bad for your health and the environment.

When purchasing sunscreen, our main aim is to protect ourselves from the sun’s damaging UVA and UVB rays. Our relentless quest for sun protection can sometimes lead us to believe the chemical produced sunscreen products developed and marketed by multinational corporations offer the best protection, but the question remains - how are these products affecting our health and the environment?

Luckily, the earth produces a natural sunblock that is just as effective at protecting your skin from the sun without the potentially harmful synthetic ingredients. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are two natural ingredients that protect your skin from sun damage. They form a topical layer that physically blocks the sun’s rays from penetrating the skin.

Titanium dioxide comes from titanium which has a natural white chalky appearance that is highly reflective. Zinc oxide comes from mineral zinc and is manufactured into a substance that is a highly effective sunblock. Similar to titanium dioxide, zinc oxide makes your skin look white when applied and feels slightly heavy on the skin.

Both substances are effective at protecting your skin from the sun however, zinc oxide provides the most protection due to its ability to block out various types of rays. UVA (UV-aging) and UVB (UV-burning) are separate rays that affect the skin differently. Titanium dioxide protects the skin from UVB and short UVA rays, whereas zinc oxide blocks long UVA rays providing further protection against various rays. To offer broad spectrum protection, zinc oxide is often combined with additional UVB blockers.

Conventional sun protection products are commonly made with a concoction of synthetic ingredients that pose a threat to your health and the environment. The ingredients listed below are commonly included in most chemically produced sunscreen products and ones you should avoid using.

1. Oxybenzone is a penetration enhancer that helps the skin absorb additional chemicals. When this substance is exposed to UV rays it experiences a chemical reaction which can irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions. This chemical has also been recognised to disrupt hormones.

2. Octinoxate is a chemical used in most commercial sunscreens that contain SPF. Our skin absorbs this substance easily and promotes the absorption of other ingredients. Octinoxate isn’t known for causing allergic reactions, however the substance has been linked to effecting hormones and endangering wildlife if leaked into waterways.

3. Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate) helps to improve the anti-aging properties of sunscreens. Retinyl Palmitate is a combination of Vitamin A and palmitic acid. Studies have linked this substance to numerous health concerns including the ability to increase the development of malignant cells and skin tumours. When retinyl is exposed to UV rays, it breaks down and releases toxic free radicals that can damage cells, DNA and promote cancer growth.

4. Homosalate is a substance that helps sunscreen penetrate your skin and absorb UV rays. The chemical is easily absorbed through our skin and accumulates in our bodies at a rate much faster than our body can process it. As this chemical accumulates in our body, it becomes toxic and can disrupts hormones.

5. Octocrylene is a UV ray absorbing chemical that produces oxygen radicals when exposed to UV light which can cause further damage to cells and cause mutations. This substance also has the ability to accumulate in your body. This substance can be toxic when released into the environment.

6. Paraben Preservatives have been known to cause allergic reactions when applied. Studies have also revealed the substance can disrupt hormones, and cause developmental and reproductive toxicity.

Although sunscreen is an important product to use to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, the best form of protection it to cover up and stay out of the sun as much as possible.


Related: What toxic chemicals are in your toothpaste?; Looming health hazards of synthetic chemical repellents; Why is BPA the only concern?

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Why is BPA the only concern?

The humble rubber duck made from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) receives less recognition as a harmful product but places equal health concerns to Bisphenol A (BPA).

The term ‘BPA-free’ is well-known due to the Australian Government’s regulated actions in 2010 to declare a voluntary phase out of Bisphenol A (BPA) in baby bottles. Research has found BPA to cause numerous health concerns due to its ability to percolate food and beverages, however the chemical Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) used in many everyday products places equal health concerns but is significantly less recognised.

Similar to BPA, PVC contains phthalates to make the plastic soft and malleable and is used in various consumer products including raincoats, shoes and rubber duck bath toys. PVC is currently one of the most common plastics produced and is made using numerous toxic chemicals that are harmful to both humans and the environment including lead, cadmium, organotins, colourants, fire-retardants, anti-oxidants and phthalates. Approximately 95 per cent of phthalates made in the world are produced specifically for the production of flexible PVC attributing it to the world highest environmental pollutant.

The use of BPA and PVC in certain consumer products is banned or restricted in many countries around the world including Europe and the United States of America. Australia is very slow to prohibit the use of certain chemicals that other countries have ruled out and I feel that as consumers we shouldn’t leave it up to the regulators. Consumers are choosing products that are being put before them by companies that are purely profit-driven.

As a society, we need to make a different choice that has no questions around its safety. There are many products on the market that offer a natural alternative to chemical produced plastics. Natural rubber is nontoxic to humans and biodegradable as opposed to chemical produced plastics that can take over 450 years to decompose. So why do we continuing to produce toxic plastic when we have safe and natural alternative?

I believe it is up to us as a society to decide what is good for ourselves, our families and the environment and we can influence change through our purchasing power. So why choose a PVC synthetic rubber duckie when you can choose a truly from nature rubber duckie?

Make a change by signing our petition to ban Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) in products for children under 12 years of age in Australia!

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Put a cork in it

When 80% of the 20 billion bottles of wine produced in the world each year use natural corks, why do nearly all wine bottles in Australian bottle shops seem to have screw caps?

Is it a reflection of Australian culture?  After all, we drink a lot of beer with screw tops, perhaps we expect to be able to casually screw the top off a beverage.

Australia and New Zealand are among the leaders in this technological "development"--and it's uptake--along with other cork alternative, the Diam petrochemical plastic cork.  Commercial reasons must be driving the change because it's cheaper and reduces spoilage.  But, we seem to be accepting the move away from hundreds of years of tradition without much fuss.  Does some small percentage of wine oxidation really matter when we are once again replacing a truly sustainable solution with an non-renewable, petrochemical answer?

James Halliday posted his views of this debate and attracted some passionate replies! Apparently, the makers of screw caps contend that an aluminium cap generates less carbon in its manufacture and transport - compared with cork that has to travel all the way from Spain!

As someone comments on the Halliday post, "How can you suggest that screwcap production has minimal carbon footprint consequences? Have you considered the environmental impact associated with mining and smelting aluminium and the total amount of energy used in the process of manufacturing screwcaps? Transport is only one component when determining the environmental performance of a product over its life cycle."

And another reminds us that the bark of a cork tree regenerates and is harvested between 10 and 14 times during its 200 year life, in the process capturing 7 or 8 times more CO2 than had the cork bark never been harvested.

Australian environmental commentator Tanya Ha explains in her book Greeniology, the disappearance of cork is an environmental tragedy. "Cork is a wonderful, sustainable resource. The cork oak survives without chemicals, fertilisers or irrigation. Cork trees aren't cut down, only their outer bark is harvested every nine years....Over half the world's cork comes from cork-oak forests in Spain and Portugal. These forests are home to the endangered Bonelli's eagle and the Iberian lynx. As the world buys more wine with plastic stoppers or screw tops, these forests are losing their markets and the farmers are having to clear the land in favour of more profitable crops."

Cork is also biodegradable and readily recyclable so it does not need to end up in landfill. We have a well established recycling stream for cork in Australia.  According to the Planet Ark cork fact sheet: 

Girl Guides Australia has been a world pioneer in cork recycling, beginning its program in 1990. Since then, this program alone collected over 160 million corks. Currently, other community organisations including Motor Neuron Disease, Friends of the Zoos and Green Collect also collect
corks for recycling.

Both Biome eco friendly stores take pleasure in accepting your corks for recycling and handing them onto the Girl Guides.

Interestingly, Australia may lead the way with screw caps, but Planet Ark says, we also have the world’s largest wine cork recycling plant run by Logic Australia. The end result are new products like flooring, memo boards, placemats, coasters, floor tiles, gaskets, horse-float mats, boat decking and inners for hockey and cricket balls.

The story of cork is a common modern eco-dilemma, but we think that it is worth standing up for nature's solution.  It may seem like you're fighting against a tsunami of change, but every purchasing decision you make sends a message.

What Australian wine is bottled using a cork?

Searching online bottle shops, no one seemed to mention whether each wine has a cork or not.  The only winery that came up in searches was Harris Organic Wines, WA, who publish a statement about their commitment to cork.  Way to go!

We asked this question of our Facebook fans last year and they told us:
Brown brothers Riesling, Golden Grape Estate in the Hunter Valley,‎"Stones Gold" sparkling ginger wine, Brown Brothers Zibibbo Rosa, Bleasdale Vineyards eg. for "Frank Potts" Cabernet blend.

Perhaps you can add to our list by posting the names here or on our Facebook? 


Homewares made from cork

Cork wine bottle stopper

You can support cork through other products of course.  We have just introduced to Biome some cork homewares made in Spain from pruned branches and bark of oak trees grown on the Iberian Peninsula - a cork wine bottle stopper, cork trivet and cork soap dish.

Why not upcycle your corks into a real cork memo board?

Find inspiration on the behomemade.com blog. They made the gorgeous memo board pictured here from an old door frame and corks.

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Non stick cookware - a cautionary tale

A cautionary tale

So far this story has followed a plot-line similar to that of so many human-created chemicals.  Invented by accident, its benefits are found to make life easier or more enjoyable for people - and more pofitable for companies.  The product is released on the world without caution, before proper testing of its health and environmental impacts.  Decades later, the chemical is found to be harmful in its manufacture or use.  The company knows this, but covers it up, until a group of concerned citizens fights for long enough to gain the attention of Government regulatory bodies.  Think CFCs, cigarettes, BPA, DDT ...

It is the tale of a synthetic fluropolymer called Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) - most well known by the DuPont brand name Teflon - along with its stablemate PFOA.  Among the many uses for PTFE is making non stick cookware.  PFOA, which is cancer causing and lethal to birds, is used in the manufacture of PTFE.  It is also used to make oil and water-repellent coatings on carpet, textiles, leather and paper, like microwave popcorn bags.

PTFE was invented accidentally in 1938 by a scientist who was attempting to make a new CFC refrigerant. In the early 60's Marion A. Trozzolo, who had been using the substance on scientific utensils, marketed the first US-made Teflon coated frying pan, "The Happy Pan." (Wikipedia)

In 2004, DuPont (who still uses PFOA in the manufacture of PTFE) paid US$300 million to 50,000 residents living near one of its US plants.  The residents had brought a class action claiming it was responsible for contaminating local water supplies with PFOA, causing birth defects and other health hazards.

In 2006, a US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) scientific advisory board recommended PFOA be labelled a 'likely carcinogen' (cancer-causing) in humans.  The EPA asked DuPont, and seven other companies that use PFOA in manufacturing processes, to phase out its use. DuPont has agreed to take steps to make sure that by the year 2015, the chemical would not be released into the environment from its manufacturing plants, though it has not agreed to stop using it, or to stop making Teflon. The problem for Dupont is, as it stands now, it cannot make Teflon without this chemical, though it says it is looking for a substitute.  Quoted from an excellent article by Peter Lavelle on the Australian ABC website The Pulse.

It further transpires that DuPont had known for several decades that PFOA is harmful and kept quiet about it!  The EPA did at least fine DuPont for this behaviour (ref: The Washington Post) .

Are Teflon and other PTFE containing non stick pans safe?

The Peter Lavelle article summarises: 
...non-stick fry pans can release toxins. At high temperatures Teflon is known to give off a cocktail of 15 types of toxic particles and gases, including trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) and phosgene. These chemicals are known to be poisonous to birds. And in humans they cause headaches, chills, backache, and fever - a condition known as 'Teflon flu'.
DuPont admits this, but it says in humans the condition is reversible, and in any case it only occurs at high temperatures, not during normal cooking use.

Government authorities and DuPont say that Teflon and other PTFE non stick pans and cookware are safe as long as you cook at low to medium heat, do not heat the pan empty, don't allow oils to smoke, etc etc.

I would be particularly cautious about cheap "no name" brands of non stick pans.  I imagine the quality of the coating would be questionable and more easily broken down into toxins, plus there is little accountability from the manufacturer. 

Wikipedia explains:
At 200 °C PTFE is detectable and it evolves several fluorocarbon gases. It begins to deteriorate after the temperature of cookware reaches about 260 °C, and decomposes above 350 °C (662 °F). These degradation by-products can be lethal to birds, and can cause flu-like symptoms in humans.

Meat is usually fried between 200 and 230 °C, and most oils will start to smoke before a temperature of 260 °C is reached - although refined safflower oil and avocado oil have a higher smoke point than 260 °C so you wouldn't know. Empty cookware can also exceed this temperature upon heating.

Safe non stick cookware alternatives

Biome simply supports the precautionary principle - better safe than sorry.  We also aim to question any use of synthetic chemicals and whether there is a safe, more natural alternative.  I also have no idea how you would tell what temperature your non stick pan had reached?

All cookware uses some form of metal and synthetic process to manufacture the pan, unless we're going to cook over an open fire on sticks, or use the sun to cook an egg on a rock!  Unless you can think of other methods...?

Glass is the safest of materials, but it is certainly not non-stick, as proven by hours of scrubbing lasagne of my glass Pyrex dish.

We have chosen the Neoflam non-stick cookware range that is now stocked in both our stores and online.

Neoflam is a cast aluminum cookware coated with Ecolon™ non-stick coating. Ecolon is a ceramic based coating which is mostly made of silicon dioxide (also known as silica or SiO₂), a material most commonly found in nature such as stone and sand. No emissions are released at any temperature and there are no heavy metals such as Cadmium, Lead and Mercury in the coating.

Aside from the great features below, I love cooking with Neoflam!  The fry pan is a joy to use - lightweight and easy to clean.  I've tried other safe non-stick cookware that is much heavier and unweildy.  I love that it is ovenproof also.  A friend who is a Chinese chef was delighted with his Neoflam wok. He said the "fried rice was dancing"!

• Highly durable and scratch resistant - non stick coating lasts longer than conventional non stick
• Oven safe
• Has the benefits of cast iron thick base cookware, but is actually lightweight
• Great value prices compared with other brands marketed as premium options
• Ecolon coated cookware uses less energy and achieves faster cooking times due to better thermal conductivity
• Less C02 emissions than Teflon manufacturing

According to Neoflam, most PTFE coating can only withstand up to 4H pencil testing. PTFE coating releases chemicals at 240°C. On the contrary, Ecolon can withstand 8H hardness testing and will not melt up to 450°C.

Ecolon coated cookware can cook an egg without using any oil. And clean up is a breeze too, both inside and outside.  Ecolon's non-stick coating performance may appear to be slightly less than a PTFE-based non-stick coating. However, Ecolon's advantage comes from its durability, maintaining the same non-stick performance even after repeated use.

See the full range of Neoflam non stick cookware at Biome Eco Stores.

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Mr Harvey, can't you use your media power for good?

Photo from Greenpeace Australia Pacfic website

There is no doubt that Gerry Harvey is a very influential person in Australia due to the media air time that he commands - whether it be paid advertising, or as we saw when he spoke out against offshore online shopping, free editorial.

He recently gained so much free media time on the TV, radio and in print, trying to make the Government introduce a policy to discourage people from buying overseas.

Why then does
(a) Harvey Norman purchase furniture made overseas for sale in Australia?

(b) Harvey Norman allow furniture made from precious Australian native forest timbers to be sold in his stores?

(c) Mr Harvey not use his incredible media influence to be a true leader and speak out against this practice and urge the Government to establish an Australian labelling policy?

An Australian non government group Markets for Change investigation has revealed (excerpt taken from noharveyno.net):
                   The journey of many of Harvey Norman’s Australian native forest wood products starts in the forests of Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia and New South Wales. These forests are logged, shipped overseas to China, made into furniture and then shipped back to Australia to be sold back to us in the showrooms of Harvey Norman around the country.
Harvey Norman has no publicly available procurement policy that ensures the piece of furniture you buy has not come from an Australian native forest.

Australia does need a labelling policy that empowers the consumer to make an informed choice.  The labelling must identify the species from which products are made, whether the trees have been harvested from certified plantations or native forests, and the country in which the products are manufactured.

Take action

Here you can find an excellent resource with a list of the retailers and timbers to avoid.
Who's selling our native forests?

See the full report at the Markets for Change website

Sign the GetUp! petition here

Take the Ethical Paper pledge here

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BPA Free news

Pictured here: LifeFactory glass bottles with silicone covers

As reported on Channel 10 news tonight, 5 July 2011

Channel Ten news tonight aired an informative story on the dangers of BPA and how to avoid BPA.   Read more about our Biome store and the choices featured in the Channel 10 news story.  Founder of Biome Eco Stores and environmentalist Tracey Bailey, spoke in the news piece.  Link to the Channel Ten story.
We have all heard about BPA in the media lately and know that this dangerous compound is found in some plastic containers and drink bottles.  Make a difference in your and your family's health by choosing the safest water bottles and drinking containers available on the market today.

At Biome Eco Stores we have only ever offered safe, non-toxic choices including BPA free, PVC free and also free from lead and phthalates.

This post contains some thoroughly researched, credible sources that we have found on BPA.

The quick summary?  Good old-fashioned glass is the safest choice for any form of drinking vessel, drink bottle, storage container or cooking vessel.  This may not seem the most practical choice, but Lifefactory glass bottles are made from toughened glass and come with a silicone cover to help protect them from breakage.
What is BPA?


Bisphenol A (BPA) is a plastic and resin ingredient used to line metal food and drink cans and to make hard and clear polycarbonate plastics.  Here is a summary of the Environmental Working Group study in 2007 which found BPA in over half of 97 cans of name-brand fruit, vegetables, soda, and other commonly eaten canned goods.

The use of BPA is widespread, as is its permeation into the environment around us including drinking water and human breast milk.  BPA can leach into food from the protective internal lining of canned foods and from consumer products such as baby bottles and water bottles, polycarbonate tableware and food storage containers.  The degree to which BPA leaches from polycarbonate bottles into liquid may depend more on the temperature of the liquid or bottle, than the age of the container.  (Source: National Toxicology Program).

This Z recommends article explains the great advances made away from unsafe polycarbonate bottles that contained high levels of BPA, but calls for putting BPA-free into perspective.  Canada was the first country to ban BPA from baby products, followed by several US States.  It is still allowed to be used in Australia.

How do you limit exposure to BPA?

• Avoid polycarbonate #7 and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) #3 plastics, especially for children’s food or containers used for heating.  Plastics with the recycling labels #1, #2 and #4 on the bottom are safer choices and do not contain BPA.  Some #7 plastics are now free from BPA, so look for the packaging that also clearly states BPA free.
• Do not heat or microwave food in any type of plastic container – use glass or ceramic instead. Heating plastics to high temperatures promotes the leaching of chemicals.
• Reduce your use of canned foods – canned pasta and soups contain the highest levels of BPA
• Use glass baby bottles and glass bottles for drink bottles.
• Use high quality reusable bottles from trusted brands that publish results of quality control and testing.

Which water bottles and containers are safest to use?

In most cases, the old rule “you get what you pay for” is a good starting point.  There are many cheap metal water bottles in stores to meet the consumer demand for moving away from plastics.  We recommend only choosing an established drink bottle brand that you know and trust, that openly publishes independent test results, and that can be held accountable should there be a problem.

Metal bottles can still leach toxins, whether an aluminium bottle with no lining at all or an unsafe lining, or a stainless steel bottle leaching nickel – particularly if there has not been a tightly controlled and monitored approach to the manufacturing.

At the end of the day, you and your family are the ones who drink from the bottles and need to feel comfortable with whichever choice you make.

Biome offers only choices that are the best quality, reputable and free from all harmful things!

Glass water bottles
Lunch boxes
Sandwich wraps
BPA free baby bottles
Stainless steel bottle
Water bottle

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Natural repellent - where did they do?

Have been looking for your favourite natural mosquito repellent but can't find it on the shelf anymore?

All manufacturers of products making claims about their "mosquito repellent" properties have been targeted by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medecines Authority (APVMA).

As a result some natural repellants have been re-labelled without reference to their repellent properties or they have been withdrawn from sale until they go through registration.

Before an agricultural or veterinary chemical product can be legally supplied, sold, or used in Australia it must be registered by the APVMA.
This is the same role the Therapeutic Goods Administration has for pharmaceutical and health products.

According to the APVMA, an "Agricultural chemical product" includes any substance or organism used to: destroy, stupefy, repel, inhibit the feeding of, or prevent pests on plants or other things.  And "other things" includes humans!

So products that make claims such as "A botanical blend of powerful herbal oils to deter insects naturally" are not allowed to say that unless they have been registered - which I imagine involves proving the claim and the safety of all ingredients. 

What happened to your favourite?
Bugger Off personal insect repellant -- withdrawn from sale while it is re-labelled or registered
Lemon Myrtle natural insect protection -- now called an 'antiseptic topical spray'
Mozzie F.O. natural insect repellent -- is still for sale, so must be registered
Scatter Bugs insect repellant -- re-labelled and is now called 'Skin Guard'

What are the ingredients in a natural mozzie repellent
All natural repellants that we know of are simply a combination of essential oils that mozzies don't like in a solution such as water and palm kernel alcohol.  Some add Glycerine and Aloe Vera for added thickness and feel.

The types of essential oils that deter mosquitos include Citronella, Tea Tree Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Lavender, Lemon Myrtle, Sage and Rosemary.

Natural repellent for babies and sensitive skins are the same ingredients but the oils are much more diluted so as to be less likely to irritate.

Take care
As with all essential oils, even though they are natural, people can be very sensitive to specific oils.  Always test a tiny bit first.  Pregnant women should always consult a medical practitioner before applying essential oils to the skin.

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Palm oil labelling Bill needs your support

So far removed and yet so connected.  There may be some encouraging news for the orangutans and endangered species of SE Asia's rainforests if the machinery of our Government continues to grind in the right direction.

In November 2009, Senators Xenophon, Bob Brown and Joyce introduced to the Sentate, the Food Standards Amendment (Truth in Labelling – Palm Oil) Bill 2009. The Bill is under Inquiry and submissions closed recently (read the submissions).

It's not too late to have your say. Right now, you can sign a petition to support the Bill via the Zoos Victoria Don't Palm us off campaign.  80,000 other people already have!

The proposed Bill will require the accurate labelling of palm oil in food. The principal issues being considered are:

1. The rights of consumers to be provided with accurate and truthful information to enable them to make an informed choice;
2. That allowing palm oil to be listed as "vegetable oil" on food packaging is misleading;
3. That palm oil is high in saturated fats and consumers should be made aware for health reasons;
4. That the impact of palm oil production on wildlife, specifically Orangutan's in South East Asia is significant unless it is done sustainably;
5. That sustainable palm oil can be produced with low impact on the environment and with better labour laws on plantations; and
6. That manufacturers should be encouraged to use sustainable palm oil in their production process and can subsequently use the status of "Certified Sustainable Palm Oil" as a business benefit.

Complex dilemna

Palm oil is a complex issue for consumers and business and one that Biome is passionate about.  Following is our latest assessment of the issue and in particular, "sustainable palm oil".  It appears that while highly unlikely that certified Sustainable Palm Oil (CSPO) is being used by all that claim to be, the WWF recommends that manufacturers and consumers support CSPO.

If you are not aware of the environmental threats due to palm oil, please see our Facts section below.  Biome has a commitment to not stock any products containing palm oil or its derivatives.  We do still offer some products with palm oil but we are working to remove these or to get our suppliers to substitute.  We clearly label the products where we have found palm oil. 

We are often told by suppliers that they use "sustainable palm oil".  However, we know that this would be unlikely and it is very difficult to be certain.   There is also the complex issue of whether palm oil is a better choice than a petrochemical oil... Realistically, the key problem is the major food producers and fast food chains - not a home-based soap maker making a natural plant oil alternative to petrochemical soap.

I was thrilled to discover this report today on the Don't Palm us off website, which covers brilliantly sustainable palm oil certification WWF Palm Oil Buyers Scorecard Australia.

This report explains WWF's work with the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and their certification program.  There is no hope for the orangutans without a credible organisation like the WWF working with the industry to solve the problem.   The question is, do you refuse all palm oil or support RSPO certified producers?  The WWF says:

"By supporting the RSPO and using only CSPO, companies can help slow down deforestation and the disappearance of some of Earth’s most amazing and threatened wildlife, including tigers, elephants and orang-utans. Choosing sustainable palm oil also helps companies to reduce climate change impacts, since slashing forests for oil palms can contribute to the release of greenhouse gas emissions."

According to the report, there is in fact enough CSPO to meet Australian demand, but it is not being purchased by manufacturers.  By January 2010, RSPO certified plantations were able to supply 1.76 million tonnes of sustainable palm oil per year—more than 13 times the amount imported into Australia each year.

Despite being available in sufficient quantities, only a small portion of the available CSPO has actually been bought. In the 12 months leading up to January 2010 only 40% of the CSPO available was purchased.  Apparently this is because of the premium price for the certified oil.

How do you know if the palm oil is CSPO?

As the WWF explains, at the moment you can not know.  Manufacturers that use palm oil need only list ‘vegetable oil’ in the ingredient list.   To find out whether a product contains palm oil consumers would need to contact the company who made the product and ask them whether they are using palm oil and if so, is it CSPO?   You should then ask for a copy of the certification.  If the palm oil is from a a bulk product, there is no chain of custody to prove its origins.

The hopes are for mandatory palm oil labelling to become a reality in Australia should the proposed Food Standards Amendment (Truth in Labelling Palm Oil) Bill 2009 be passed. A provision within the bill mandates that retailers and manufacturers label their product as containing ‘CS Palm Oil’ in the ingredient list if the product contains sustainable palm oil produced in accordance with the RSPO’s standards.

What can you do?

• Sign the petition to support the Bill at Don't Palm us off.
• Write to or call your local MP and tell them to support the Bill.
• Avoid products that do not list full ingredients or list "vegetable oil". 
• Avoid products from manufacturers and fast food outlets that use palm oil - see the WWF Scorecard report, thePalm Oil Action Group Australia website and BOS Australia.
• If the product contains palm oil ask for proof that it is CPSO - or avoid the product as this is the only safe way of knowing. 
• Join the Australian Orangutan Project, adopting an orangutan or buying their cute t-shirts.

Palm Oil Free Products

Borneo Orangutan Survival (BOS) has an excellent list of Palm Oil Free alternatives for food and body products. Some of the brands listed that are available at Biome:
Clean Conscience - green cleaning
Pure and Green - organic skin and hair care
Beauty & the Bees - soap, beer shampoo bar, baby care
Riddels Creek Toothpaste

We welcome any other ideas on making an ethical choice about palm oil.

Palm Oil Facts

From the Don't Palm us Off website

• Over 85% of the world's palm oil comes from Malaysia and Indonesia. 
• The most common cause of deforestation and fragmentation in Indonesia is related to palm oil.
• An estimated 40% of food on our supermarket shelves contains palm oil.  
• In SE Asia alone, the equivalent of 300 football fields are deforested every hour for palm oil production.
• Palm oil typically costs the lives of up to 50 Orangutans each week.
• Australians unknowingly consume on average 10 kilograms of palm oil each year because we do not currently have the ability to exercise consumer choice. 
• Sustainable Palm Oil Plantations are a possibility however you need you to tell FSANZ you want palm oil labeling if they are to become a reality.
• Once palm oil is labelled, consumers can actually drive a market for proper certified sustainable palm oil because they can demand it of manufacturers.

From the BOS Australia website

"The single greatest threat facing orangutans today is the rapidly expanding palm oil trade. Rainforests are being cleared at the rate of 300 football fields per hour to make way for oil palm plantations.
While there are millions of hectares of degraded land that could be used for plantations, many oil palm companies choose to instead use rainforest land to gain additional profits by logging the timber first. Palm oil companies also frequently use uncontrolled burning to clear the land, resulting in thousands of orangutans being burned to death. Those that survive have nowhere to live and nothing left to eat."

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Is every stainless steel bottle created equal? The story of two bowls.

There are two stainless steel mixing bowls in my kitchen cupboard.  One feels more solid and has aged gracefully with use, the scratches seem to absorb into the worn smooth metal surface, which remains a dignified matt grayish colour.  The second, bought at a discount store (albeit under the brand name of a TV personality), has taken a distinct yellow tinge and is showing tarnish, its surface still artificially glossy.

We often talk to customers about choosing high quality stainless steel, but here I can actually see the difference.  Clearly, the quality affects how it wears and potentially the toxins that it may impart to food or liquids stored inside a water bottle.


There are important features to look for when choosing a reusable stainless steel bottle. Stainless steel is always made using chromium, because it is what makes steel "stainless".  Other elements used include nickel, nitrogen and molybdenum.   These elements can leach into liquids, so it is important that the bottle is made from high quality, 18/8 food-grade stainless steel – but, it is also important that you trust the manufacturer is telling the truth when they say what the bottle is made from.

Some will aim to make the bottle from the thinnest and cheapest stainless steel they can in order to reduce manufacturing costs and hence increase profits.

Other features are also important:
Are the lids made from a BPA-free plastic and are the leak proof?
Can you see sharp corners or joins where dirt and bacteria can build up?
Can you buy a replacement lid without buying a whole new bottle?
Does the manufacturer provide a guarantee?

Consider who the manufacturer is.  Do they have a long history of quality, who are the real people behind the company and what is their story?  In 2004, Klean Kanteen was the first company to make a water bottle from stainless steel.  They have continued to lead the way constantly innovating with the range they offer.  Nathan is a top sports hydration company making high quality stainless steel bottles with a clever straw drinking mechanism.  Perhaps the grandparent of all stainless steel is Thermos, whose name has become synonymous with insulated bottles for hot water.  Many of us grew up taking “the thermos” on a picnic.

From an environmental point of view, is a stainless steel bottle more eco friendly than a plastic bottle?

A Life Cycle assessment study published in the New York Times in 2009, considered the environmental and health impact of stainless steel water bottle from the extraction and processing of its ingredients, to its manufacture, distribution, use and final disposal.  It found that if your stainless steel water bottle takes the place of 50 plastic bottles, the climate is better off.    So when you buy a bottle, make sure it is one that will last hundreds of uses.  ‘Buy quality less often’ we always suggest at Biome.

From a human point of view, who made the bottle and was that person treated fairly and compensated for their time?  This is the hardest criteria to judge because few of us can actually visit the factories in China where most of the bottles are made.  We can at least always go to the manufacturer’s website and ensure they have published a statement about their factory and worker conditions.  If the bottle has a unique shape, such as Klean Kanteen or Nathan, it is more likely to be made at factory that the company directly oversees.

I treasure my well-aged stainless steel bowl.  We use it every day for washing fruit and vegetables, mixing recipes, whipping cream, bathing injuries.  So much so, that I thought a second bowl would be a handy addition.  Sadly, I did not repeat the luck with the quality of our first bowl and the newer, yellow tinged compatriot sits idle in the cupboard.

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