The Truth about Black Plastic Utensils

Safety in the kitchen is important to us all — from the materials in our cookware to the food in our pantry. Recently, recycled black plastic has been in the news due to major concerns.

What’s the issue? Research suggests black plastic kitchen utensils often contain toxic chemicals, such as flame retardants from recycled e-waste, which can leach into food, especially when exposed to heat — for instance, spatulas, spoons, microwaveable takeout containers, etc. These substances, linked to health risks like hormonal disruptions and cancer, highlight the need for safer alternatives. Experts recommend replacing black plastic utensils with durable options like stainless steel, silicone, or wood, which are safer, long-lasting, and often more environmentally friendly. Since black plastic is difficult to recycle, the best disposal method is simply tossing it in the trash.

What should you do? The New York Times reports that consumers should “use this news as an excuse for an upgrade.” We recommend you take a closer look at the tools in your kitchen and what you use to prepare and store food. If you have any doubts about certain times, err on the side of caution and replace them.

Which tools are safe to use? All non-plastic utensils are safe, such as wood or stainless steel. There are some tools that may look like black plastic, but are actually made of food-safe black silicone. Because the concern is for recycled black plastic, we continue to sell Oxo utensils. While made of black plastic, Oxo products contain no recycled black plastic (see statement below).

Scroll down to see our selection of alternative tools.

STATEMENT FROM OXO: We can assure you that while OXO does seek to integrate recycled plastic into our products, we do NOT permit the use of any recycled black plastic in any of our food contact materials.

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