Check For These 4 Things Before Buying Your Tableware!

Despite its importance, we always overlook the safety of the materials  our tablewares that are food are served on. 

When thinking about food and dining, what concerns us the most regarding safety is focused on the food or beverage that we are served. You might always ask questions such as “Is the food safe?”, “Does it taste right?”, but there is one important concern that we overlook most of the time. This important issue and concern is the safety of the material to make the tablewares that our food is served on.

It is important to take into consideration of the lifestyle that you are current living, the material and safety of the tablewares before buying them. Hold off one second and let’s check for these 4 things before buying the tableware of your choice.

Related: 4 Different Types Of Tableware And How Its Used.

1. What type and kind of ceramic is it made from?

We are presented with variety of tableware materials options to choose from such as plastic, melamine, glass, wood, ceramic and etcetera. Compared to all of these materials, ceramic tableware is by far the most durable and most popular choice due to the fact that it is highly resistant to stains and microwave-safe unlike like melamine and plastic. The term “Ceramic” can be broken down to include stoneware, earthenware, fine china, bone china and porcelain. Each of the types can vary in durability, appearance, texture and porosity.

• Stoneware

  • Ceramic that is mixed with glass and fired
  • Much more durable than earthenware
  • More opaque than porcelain and china
  • Easily broken when exposed to sudden temperature change

• Earthenware

  • Fired at a lower temperature (Ranging from 1,000 – 1,150 degree celsius).
  • Has a rustic look.
  • Absorbs liquids and substances easily due to its porous body.
  • Prone to chipping, stains and bacterial growth if not cleaned properly.

• Fine China

  • Clay fired at temperature of around 1,200 degree celsius.
  • Softer and easier to mould than porcelain.
  • Non-porous and highly durable.
  • Has delicate and translucent appearance.

• Bone China

  • Clay mixed with a certain percentage of animal bone ashes.
  • The higher the amount of bone mixed in, the more durable it is. (High quality pieces range from 30-45%).
  • Lightweight, slightly translucent with a warm tinge.
  • Not suitable for oven baking – may crack.

• Porcelain

  • Clay fired at a temperature of around 1,455 degree celsius.
  • Durable, hardy and non-porous.
  • Retains a clean, almost translucent finish.

These are the options of ceramic you could choose from depending on your needs, lifestyle and concerns.

2. Is it suitable for your lifestyle and cruelty free? 

Some tableware may not be suitable for your lifestyle choices. For instance Bone China tableware that contains animal bone ashes which will not be suitable for those  with religious concerns nor is it an ethical choice especially when the origins of these ashes are questionable.

3. Is it free from toxic metals? 

Toxic metals like cadmium or lead might be found in some cheaply made ceramic pieces. These metals may be found in its raw material or glazes which may seep and leach into food and beverages served on these pieces. It is important to invest in a quality set from a brand that is transparent and credible in their manufacturing process. Make sure the tablewares that you choose to buy are made in a safe, environmentally conscious manner.

4.  Is it easy to maintain?

If your tableware is easier to maintain, it will have lower possibility of chipping, staining or getting dulled. This is important as these possibilities can pose a couple of health risks such as bacteria contamination or causing physical harm.

This is why it is vital to check a tableware set’s care instructions before using or before even purchasing. If you are not able to find care instructions, here are some general do’s and don’ts to prolong the lifespan of your tablewares:

• Load and dry them properly on the dish racks.
• Avoid piling your heavier wares on top of your lighter wares.
• Avoid stacking items not suitable and not designed for stacking, like glasses, cups and mugs.
• Wash gold/platinum foiled plates by hand with mild detergent and avoid putting it in the dishwasher.
• Avoid scrubbing gold/platinum foiled plates with steel wool while cleaning.

Related: 5 Things To Put Into Consideration When Buying Your Tableware

Have a piece of mind with Kopin Tableware as we create high-quality tablewares that not only completes your dining experience but also puts your safety and the concerns of sustainability as the main priority during manufacturing. For further information about products from Kopin tableware, reach out here!