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Looking for the best non-toxic steamers? We’ve got your back!
Once again, we have to mention an all-to-familiar name – BPA.
That sneaky chemical is lurking in conventional plastic steamers, posing potential risks to both your health and the food you eat.
It’s used to harden plastics and make them more durable, but it has been known to leach out of plastic products and into the food and beverages they come into contact with. And that’s where the trouble begins.
From reproductive problems to neurological disorders, the health risks associated with BPA exposure are nothing to scoff at.
That’s why the SKL team curated this roundup of 2024’s best stainless steel and non-toxic steamers to help you craft delicious dishes without sacrificing your well-being. Read on to find premium quality, healthy, and hyper-versatile options.
P.S. Don’t forget to check out the 25 Best Non-Toxic Cookware Brands, Tested & Reviewed!
Best Non-Toxic Steamers For Safe Cooking!
You already know that every time we come across a BPA-free, healthy cooking tool that’s designed to make every meal a masterpiece, we have to share it!
From premium toasters and baking sheets to air fryers, cutting boards, and even ultimate storage solutions, we’ve researched them all.
However, this time, we’ll focus on something completely different.
Enter: The best non-toxic steamers for vegetables, shellfish, rice and so much more.
When I first started my non-toxic living journey, I was blissfully unaware of the most toxic chemicals lurking in the everyday products I used.
Sure, I knew that recycling was a good thing and that single-use plastics were bad news, but when it came to the finer details?
Let’s just say I had a lot to learn. I mean, who would have thought that something as simple as a food steamer could harbor harmful chemicals like BPA?
What is a non-toxic steamer?
A non-toxic steamer is a cooking appliance designed and constructed with materials that are considered safe for food preparation and do not release harmful substances or toxins when heated.
Because it is designed for cooking food by exposing it to steam, this cooking method is often considered healthier compared to other techniques as it helps retain nutrients in the food, and it doesn’t require the addition of fats or oils.
What toxic chemicals are hiding in most steamers?
Non-Stick Coatings (PTFE/PFOA):
Some steamers may have non-stick coatings that contain polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). These chemicals can release toxic fumes when heated at high temperatures, potentially posing health risks.
Plastics Containing BPA:
Steamers with plastic components may contain bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical used in some plastics that has been associated with health risks. BPA can leach into food, especially when exposed to heat. So, it would be best to choose non-toxic steamers labeled as BPA-free or made from alternative materials like stainless steel or glass to help avoid this issue.
Melamine:
Some steamers may use melamine, a type of plastic, in their construction. When melamine is heated, it can release formaldehyde, which is a potential health hazard.
Aluminum:
While aluminum is generally safe for cookware, prolonged exposure to acidic or salty foods during steaming may lead to aluminum leaching into the food. Excessive aluminum intake has been linked to health concerns, such as neurotoxicity.
Rubber Seals & Gaskets:
Some steamers may have rubber seals or gaskets that contain harmful compounds like phthalates. These chemicals can leach into the food, particularly when exposed to heat.
The Safest Non-Toxic Steamers For Vegetables & More:
1. Caraway
First up is Caraway’s steamer duo, a fantastic innovation in the world of non-toxic, non-stick cooking!
You know how much we love this non-toxic cookware brand!
This large & small steamer combo is designed to offer healthier at-home steaming for every portion size, from veggie sides to dim sum and beyond.
The reinforced stainless steel body and handles ensure a non-toxic steaming experience, free from BPA, allowing you to cook with confidence.
On top of that, Caraway’s best stainless steel steamer duo is crafted to nest seamlessly inside your cookware, with no scratches in sight.
Price: From $55+ for the “Small Steamer”
Materials: Stainless steel
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
Our Top Picks from Caraway:
2. Xtrema Cookware
Xtrema Cookware has done it again! The white 2.5-quart, non-toxic steamer basket with a cover is a great way to transform almost any ceramic pot into an instant steamer!
This versatile addition seamlessly fits into your ceramic cookware, unlocking a world of possibilities for steaming everything from veggies to meat and beyond.
Turn your favorite oil-based or butter-based recipes into lower-calorie options without compromising on flavor. It’s that easy!
Price: $29.99
Materials: LFBG Certified silicone
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
3. Great Jones
Great Jones’ safe food steamer is equal parts display worthy and premium quality.
The set includes the Dutch baby, Great Jones’s round 3.5-quart cast-iron Dutch oven, perfect for smaller batches and kitchens.
Along with it comes a small steam! It’s a 4-in-1 non-toxic streamer that acts as a colander, steamer, splatter guard, and trivet.
It fits seamlessly into the Dutch baby, making it the ideal duo for pasta night perfection and beyond.
Of course, the baby and small steam are free from scary chemicals like BPA and BPS.
Plus, cleanup is a breeze! Both the Dutch baby and small steam are dishwasher-safe, and they can handle the heat, resisting temperatures up to 550°F.
Our Top Picks from Great Jones:
Price: From $40+ for the “Small Steam”
Materials: Cast iron Dutch oven | Food grade silicone | BPA & BPS free
Location/Shipping: United States
4. Alva Cookware
For a high-quality non-toxic steamer basket, look no further than Alva Cookware.
The interior and exterior of the Dutch oven are coated with three layers of scratch-resistant enamel, ensuring durability while resisting stains.
Plus, the set comes with two bamboo steamer inserts that allow for two levels of steaming.
From slow-simmered stews to hearty soups and succulent roasts, this Dutch oven is a worthy addition to every kitchen.
Whether you’re using gas, electric, or induction, this dup is ready for the job.
Price: $259
Materials: Cast iron Dutch oven | Natural bamboo steamer
Location/Shipping: United States
5. Made In Cookware
Made In’s best stainless steel steamer basket is designed for the 8 QT stock pot.
The premium construction is designed to stand the test of time, promising long-lasting use for your culinary adventures.
From healthy, oil-free vegetables to mouthwatering dumplings, tamales, and succulent seafood, this non-toxic streamer caters to a variety of culinary creations.
Price: $89
Materials: Stainless Steel
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
6. Zwilling
Fun Fact: Zwilling 3-quart sauté pan and 6-quart Dutch oven can be transformed into efficient steamers when paired with this robust stainless steel steamer insert.
The Zwilling specialties steamer insert makes sure that your veggies are cooked to crisp-tender perfection, making every bite a delightful and nutritious experience.
What’s more, the double-rivet stay-cool handles are thoughtfully designed for maximum maneuverability.
To top it all off, this BPA-free steamer is easy to clean and dishwasher safe, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
Price: $49.99
Materials: 18/10 stainless steel
Location/Shipping: Germany, ships worldwide (choose your location at the bottom of the website)
7. Demeyere
Next up is Demeyere’s non-toxic steamer basket.
This Belgium-made steamer offers an easy way to transform your saucepans, sauciers, sauté pans, Dutch ovens, and stock pots into efficient steamers, locking in nutrients and vitamins as you achieve crisp-tender perfection with your vegetables.
The patented Silvinox® surface treatment maintains the silvery-white finish of stainless steel.
Plus, thanks to the unique welding technology, DEMEYERE’s ergonomic, stay-cool handles are extremely secure.
Price: $129.99
Materials: 18/10 stainless steel
Location/Shipping: Belgium, ships worldwide (choose your location at the bottom of the website)
8. Staub
Staub’s best stainless steel steamer is equipped with a strong silicone seal and various holes on the surface, guaranteeing the optimum distribution of heat.
This ensures that your dishes are cooked to perfection with consistent and even heat.
You can harness the power of gentle cooking for vegetables, without compromising on nutrients.
And, if paired with the matching 26 cm cocotte, this safe food steamer offers combined cooking possibilities.
You can fry on the bottom and steam on the top, allowing for a variety of culinary creations in one versatile cookware.
Price: $69.99
Materials: 18/10 stainless steel
Location/Shipping: France, ships worldwide (choose your location at the bottom of the website)
9. Homichef
HOMICHEF’s elegant mirror-polished steamer set is crafted from food-grade Japanese standard JYH21CT (21/0) nickel-free stainless steel.
Steaming whole foods, be it chicken, veggies, lobster, and more, is the best way to retain nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
What’s more, the steamer insert serves dual purposes, acting as a well-sized drainer basket when used with the steam pot.
Price: 74.99
Materials: Stainless Steel
Location/Shipping: United States, ships internationally
10. BergHoff
The BergHOFF stainless steel steamer set is sustainably made from high-quality 18/10 stainless steel with a 3-layer capsule base.
The set ensures both energy-efficient cooking and even heat distribution.
From oven to boiler and freezer, this cookware set adapts to various cooking environments.
Plus, inside each pot, you’ll find convenient capacity markings to help control portions effortlessly for healthier cooking.
Also, it’s compatible with all heat sources – Induction, electric, gas, halogen, and vitro-ceramic.
Price: From $85+
Materials: 18/10 stainless steel
Location/Shipping: United States
What are the three types of steamers?
Electric Food Steamers
Electric food steamers are standalone appliances equipped with heating elements and water reservoirs. They typically have multiple tiers or compartments, allowing you to cook different foods simultaneously.
Also, non-toxic electric food steamers are versatile and suitable for steaming vegetables, fish, poultry, and more.
Stovetop Steamer Inserts
Stovetop steamer inserts are separate components that can be placed inside existing pots or pans. They are often made of metal or silicone and feature perforated bottoms to allow steam to penetrate and cook the food.
Stovetop steamer inserts are versatile and can be used with various cookware, making them a popular choice for those who want to add steaming capabilities to their current kitchen setup.
Microwave Steamers
Microwave steamers are designed for quick and convenient steaming in the microwave. These steamers typically come in the form of microwave-safe containers with perforated lids to allow steam to escape.
They are suitable for steaming small quantities of food and are a fast option for those looking for a time-efficient cooking method.
Is stainless steel good for steaming?
Yes, stainless steel is an excellent material for steaming food. Firstly, stainless steel is non-reactive, meaning it does not react with acidic or alkaline foods.
This makes it a safe and versatile option for steaming a wide variety of foods, including those with acidic components like tomatoes or citrus.
What’s more, stainless steel is easy to clean and maintain. It is typically dishwasher-safe, simplifying the cleaning process after use.
The smooth surface of stainless steel also helps prevent food from sticking, making it easier to wipe or wash off. Stainless steel also has good heat conductivity, allowing for efficient and even distribution of heat during the steaming process.
Are plastic steamers unhealthy?
The safety of plastic steamers depends on the type of plastic used and its intended purpose. Many modern plastic steamers are made from BPA-free plastics.
BPA (bisphenol A) is a chemical that has been used in some plastics and has raised health concerns. BPA can potentially leach into food, especially when exposed to heat. BPA-free plastics are designed to eliminate this risk.
Check the type of plastic used in the steamer. Plastics labeled as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are generally considered safe for food contact.
Always avoid plastics with recycling codes 3 (polyvinyl chloride or PVC) and 7 (other), as they may contain materials that could pose health risks.
Is a BPA-free steamer safe?
Yes, BPA-free steamers are safe to use. BPA-free steamers are typically made from alternative plastics that do not contain bisphenol A or other harmful chemicals.
These plastics are designed to be safe for food contact and are intended to reduce the risk of chemical leaching, especially when exposed to heat during the cooking process.
Can you steam vegetables in the microwave?
Yes, microwaving is a convenient and time-saving method for steaming vegetables, and it helps preserve their vibrant color and nutritional value. Adjust the cooking time based on your microwave’s wattage and your preferences for vegetable tenderness.
This was your full guide to non-toxic food steamers!
We hope you found the best non-toxic streamer for your own culinary creations.
BPA in streamers might seem like a small detail at first, but it’s a big deal when it comes to your health and the food you eat.
So, why risk it when there are so many healthy alternatives out there? Stainless steel and bamboo steamers are extremely durable and, most importantly, completely chemical-free.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an adventurous home cook, these BPA-free steamers are not only safe but also versatile and easy to clean.
If you enjoyed this article, check out these other community favorites below:
- The 15 Best Non-Toxic Dutch Ovens | Tested & Reviewed
- 25 Best Non-Toxic Cookware Brands | Tested & Reviewed
- 19 Best Non Toxic Air Fryers (PFAS Free) | Tested & Reviewed
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