By Biome founder, Tracey Bailey
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) may not be the first thing you think of when packing your child’s lunch, but it’s lurking in many lunch boxes and insulated bags. In fact, I found Australia's major retailers are selling kids bags and backpacks made from PVC— and many do not list the materials on their website, stopping you from making an informed choice.
Here’s the kicker: PVC is banned in certain children’s products in some countries due to its known dangers, yet it’s still allowed in lunch and stationery products marketed directly at kids! Even worse, these items are often exposed to heat, wear, and tear—perfect conditions for leaching harmful chemicals into food.
So, why is PVC used, and why should you care?
Where and Why is PVC Used in Lunch Products?
PVC is used in the outer fabric and linings of lunch boxes, insulated lunch bags, ice packs, and backpacks because it’s cheap, flexible, water-resistant, and durable.
The problem lies in the chemicals added to PVC to achieve these properties—like phthalates (for flexibility) and lead (as a stabiliser).
zak! Bobble Art and Anko bags with PVC found at KMart and Target
The Dangers of PVC
The issue with PVC is the toxic additives it contains. When exposed to heat, sunlight, or wear-and-tear, these chemicals can leach into food or release harmful fumes.
Have you ever noticed old plastic items becoming sticky to touch? That's the plasticisers or phthalates coming to the surface as the PVC breaks down.
Here’s what the research says:
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Phthalates: These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors, potentially affecting hormone development and fertility in children. Australia's Minderoo Foundation’s comprehensive review highlighted links between phthalate exposure and developmental and reproductive health issues.
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Lead: Some PVC products contain lead, a neurotoxin that can cause learning and behavioural problems. Even low levels of exposure are unsafe for children.
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Long-term effects: The Minderoo Foundation’s Plastic Health Map shows over 3,500 studies linking plastic-related chemicals to conditions like asthma, obesity, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Heat exposure risks: Harmful chemicals in PVC are more likely to leach into food when lunch bags are left in hot schoolbags, cars, or under the sun. This poses additional risks, especially during warmer months.
- Banned in some countries: PVC’s dangers are so significant that some countries have banned its use in certain children’s products. This isn’t a “fairytale” – the risks are real and recognised globally. See the Footnote below on these bans.
Smash, Disney and Keeplit bags with PVC found at BigW
Environmental and Social Impact
Beyond its health risks, PVC is an environmental disaster. It’s an extremely toxic product for the environment, harming ecosystems throughout its lifecycle. The production process releases hazardous chemicals, endangering the health of factory workers and the surrounding communities. PVC’s impact doesn’t end there – as it breaks down, it releases microplastics and toxic substances into the environment.
Bluey, Smiggle and Hello Kitty bags with PVC
How to Spot PVC
Avoiding PVC in lunch gear is easier when you know what to look for. But, please note when shopping online, few website list the full materials! If they do not, I'd be suspicious - otherwise they would tout the great material it's made from! Just email the company to ask.
- Check Labels: Look for terms like “PVC-free,” “phthalate-free,” or “lead-free.”
- Look for Recycling Codes: PVC is often labeled with the number "3" or the letters “V” or “PVC.”
- Don't be fooled by: "BPA free and food grade safe lining" - that often means PVC because they are not stating what the material actually is.
- Ask questions: If it's not clear, reach out to the manufacturers and ask for full material details.
PVC-Free Solutions at Biome
Biome is your go-to for safe, sustainable lunch gear. Here’s what we offer:
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Stainless Steel Lunch Boxes: Durable, easy to clean, and free of all harmful plastics.
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Insulated Lunch Bags: Made with PVC-free materials, offering all the insulation without the toxins.
- BPA-free, PVC-free and Phthalate-free Plastic Alternatives: Where possible, it's great to avoid all plastics, but for some it is not practical so we seek out the safest, long lasting plastic.
Take Action for Healthier Lunches
Choosing PVC-free lunch gear isn’t just a health decision; it’s a step towards a cleaner, safer planet. Small choices today can make a big difference for your child’s health and the environment they grow up in. Explore Biome’s collection of non-toxic, eco-friendly lunch boxes and bags to make lunchtime safe and worry-free.
PVC free insulated lunch bags
PVC free lunch boxes
PVC free water bottles
PVC free ice packs
PVC backpacks
Footnote: Countries with PVC Bans in Children’s Products
European Union: Bans the use of phthalates in toys and childcare articles that can be placed in a child’s mouth. This includes items like teethers, pacifiers, and soft plastic toys for infants and toddlers.
United States: The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) restricts the use of certain phthalates in children’s toys and childcare products intended for children aged 12 and under. Examples include bath toys, teething rings, and soft plastic books.
Canada: Prohibits the use of phthalates in vinyl toys and childcare articles that are intended for use by children under 3 years old. This includes items like teething toys, baby bottles, and rattles.
Australia: While there is no comprehensive ban, phthalates are restricted in toys and childcare items for children under 36 months that can be placed in the mouth. These include pacifiers, soft plastic toys, and feeding accessories.
Japan: Bans the use of phthalates in toys for children under 6 years old, including soft plastic toys and accessories commonly used by young children.
These bans highlight the global recognition of PVC’s dangers and the need for stricter regulation in other areas, such as lunch boxes and bags marketed to children.
