Plastic-free lunchboxes made of aluminum or stainless steel are becoming increasingly popular. But what exactly is the difference? And which product is better?
We have gone on a search and extensively tested both products for you. So you can get a good overview yourself and find your perfect lunch box.
What is the difference between aluminum and stainless steel?
The difference between aluminum and stainless steel lies in the material composition. Aluminum has a lower density and is therefore lighter. However, much more energy is required in the production of aluminum.
Even if products made of this material seem more attractive at first glance due to the low purchase costs, you should always weigh things up carefully. Because stainless steel lunch boxes are absolutely
- food safe,
- durable
- and sustainable.
Expert advice: The use of Alu on the other hand can Health problems can result in health problems.
Aluminum vs. stainless steel: The advantages and disadvantages at a glance
You have already learned about some of the differences between aluminum and stainless steel. But to make a clear decision, it's worth taking a closer look at both materials. Are you ready?
Aluminum lunch box
Even if Aluminum lunch tins are interesting for outdoor enthusiasts because of their low price and weight, there is growing criticism. The German Consumer Center, for example, warns in its article "Aluminium in food and packaging widespread" of massive damage to the health of kidneys and bones.
Severe developmental damage is also associated with the material.
Advantages:
- Extremely lightweight
- Inexpensive to purchase
- Recyclable
Disadvantages:
- Can lead to health hazards (aluminum can accumulate in food and get into your body that way)
- Not dishwasher safe
Stainless steel lunch box
The stainless steel lunch box is becoming increasingly popular in the outdoor scene. No wonder, after all, the sustainable material is absolutely harmless for people and the environment. Unlike aluminum and plastic, stainless steel is not harmful to health. On the contrary!
Through the antibacterial properties a stainless steel lunch box is the ideal place to store food. Bacteria don't stand a chance here! You can smell and taste that. Because a stainless steel lunch box is 100% odorless and tasteless.
Advantages:
- Durable and robust
- Withstands heat and cold
- Pollutant free
- Dishwasher suitable
Disadvantages:
- More expensive than aluminum
- No different colors. With the Stainless steel lunch box there is no choice of colors
What is important when buying an aluminum or stainless steel lunch box?
When buying a lunch box, you should pay attention to a few points, regardless of the material. We will now tell you what these are:
Size:
In addition to the material quality, primarily the size is decisive. If you want to use your aluminum or stainless steel lunch box on hikes, it should provide enough space for your snack. Some models are also available equipped with subdivisions.
The welded partitions of a high quality stainless steel lunch box ensure that you can transport different foods in one box.
Thanks to the individual compartments, these remain in place even on the road and are not jumbled on your tours. For the little hunger in between, round boxes are also available. Stainless steel containers offer. These are particularly space-saving.
Temperature:
You want warm food on the way on the road? Then you should definitely have a leak-proof thermal lunchbox lunch box. In it your food stays warm for up to 12 hours. In summer you can store your food in this special Vesperbox even up to 24 hours cooln.
Closure:
Even though the closure may seem uninteresting at first glance. Do not be deceived! It plays a significant role in whether your lunch box is leak-proof.We have at ALPIN LOACKER basically two different closure mechanisms on offer.
- The leak-proof boxes with integrated sealing ring all have a side clip closure.
- The non-spill-proof cans have a lid to put on and press down.
If necessary, the lid can be additionally secured with a supplied strap.
Color:
As you know, there are at stainless steel lunch boxes there is no color choice. All models are available exclusively in the typical silver look. This is simply because no color particles can be added to the material.
For this, however, you will have to find out about the health risks of the dyes also no thoughts about it. Aluminum lunch boxes, on the other hand, come in many colors. But their benefit to your health is highly questionable.
Price:
As with all other products, there is an aluminum or stainless steel lunch box, there are large price differences. However, you should not be lured by supposedly cheaper models. Good stainless steel is expensive. Cheap models may look more attractive at first glance, but their quality and durability are questionable.
Often, at second glance, they are even much more expensive. Because while a high-quality lunch box a companion for many years cheap products quickly break down and need to be replaced. So you buy your lunch box twice instead of once. And that is more expensive in any case.
For your purchase decision we have prepared for you a table created. Here you can see again what you can do in which stainless steel can in which stainless steel can.
Leak proof |
Double tier, partially leak proof |
Not leak proof |
|
Fruit |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
Vegetables |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
Nuts |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
Dried fruits |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
Bars |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
Buns |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
Cooked |
✔ |
✔ - only on the upper floor |
|
Salad |
✔ |
✔ - only on the upper floor |
Conclusion
If you value quality and care about your health, you should choose a stainless steel lunch box. These models are robust, durable and food-safe.
The highlight: a stainless steel lunch box is even dishwasher safe and therefore absolutely easy to clean. Before buying, always remember to determine your area of application. If you like to transport liquid food, pay attention to leakage safety. You can recognize this by a special seal.
FAQ
Can stainless steel rust?
Basically, stainless steel is rust-free.The material sometimes tends to flash rust when it is cleaned in the dishwasher together with rusty parts. But this problem can be remedied in no time at all. Simply soak the affected lunch box in water with a dash of lemon juice for a few minutes. Then carefully rub the rust stains away with a rough cloth.
Where can I buy aluminum or stainless steel lunch boxes?
At ALPIN LOACKER you will find high-quality lunch boxes made of stainless steel. Since we attach great importance to sustainability and quality, we use only pure stainless steel and deliberately avoid the use of toxins and toxic chemicals. Our products are 100% food safe.
Can I clean aluminum or stainless steel lunch boxes in the dishwasher?
No! Aluminum lunch boxes are not dishwasher safe. They must be cleaned by hand. A stainless steel lunch box, on the other hand, can be cleaned in the dishwasher without any problems.
Find out what else we have to offer and read on!