
Why not all silicone is safe (And what to look for instead)
by Chelsea Kim
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When you see the word silicone, chances are you assume it’s safe, especially if it’s labeled “food-grade” or “baby-safe.” But here’s the truth most brands won’t tell you: not all silicone is created equal.
In fact, the type of silicone used and how it’s manufactured can make a huge difference in your health, your kitchen, and the life of your product. Let’s break it down so you can shop smarter (and safer).
The Truth: “Silicone” Is Just the Start
Silicone has become popular for a reason. It’s flexible, heat-resistant, and technically safer than plastic. But there are different types of silicone with very different performance and safety levels.
Most products you see online or in stores are made with peroxide-cured silicone, a cheaper, more widely available version. While it meets the basic “food-grade” label, it can leave behind residue, odors, and even chemicals when exposed to heat.
Platinum-Cured vs. Peroxide-Cured Silicone
Let’s talk chemistry but the simple version:
|
Peroxide-Cured Silicone |
Platinum-Cured Silicone |
Common Use |
Mass-market kitchenware & molds |
Medical-grade, baby-safe, premium brands |
Residue/Odor |
May leave oily/sticky film |
Odorless and non-sticky |
Heat Resistance |
Moderate |
High (safe for boiling & baking) |
Purity |
Can contain byproducts |
No chemical residue |
Cost |
Cheaper to produce |
More expensive (but safer) |
At Ribbon, we only use KCC platinum-cured silicone, the same grade used in medical tubing and baby bottle nipples because your safety (and your home) deserves better.
Why Cheap Silicone Fails
Have you ever bought a “cute” silicone item that:
- Smelled weird right out of the box?
- Got sticky or oily after a few uses?
- Warped or melted near heat?
That’s what happens when brands cut corners with low-grade materials and factories that don’t meet high standards.
Low-quality silicone often isn’t heat-stable and may break down over time, especially in dishwashers, microwaves, or ovens. And when that happens? It can leach chemicals you definitely don’t want near your food or your family.
How Ribbon Does It Differently
We started Ribbon with one mission: Make products that are safe, durable, and truly beautiful.
That’s why:
- We use platinum-cured silicone for every single product
- All of our materials are independently tested for safety
- We manufacture in a personally vetted Korean factory, where we work side-by-side with our partner to ensure every bowl, tray, and product meets our high standards
This isn’t just branding. It’s real quality you can feel the moment you open the box.
What to Look For When Buying Silicone Dishware
Before you buy any silicone product, use this simple checklist:
✔️ Platinum-cured silicone
✔️ No smell or oily film on the product
✔️ Microwave + dishwasher safe
✔️ Made in a country with high safety standards (Korea, Japan, USA, EU)
✔️ Transparent about materials and factory conditions
✔️ Doesn't warp, stick, or break down with heat
Safe, Beautiful, Built to Last
At Ribbon, we believe safe products shouldn’t look boring and beautiful products shouldn’t come with safety concerns. That’s why we combine design, safety, and performance in every bowl we make.
Because when it comes to what touches your food (and your family), only the best will do.
Feeling the difference already? → Shop Our Silicone Tableware Set Now