When selecting safe flatware for your family, it’s easy to overlook the materials that go into these everyday utensils. But did you know that the flatware you choose could introduce harmful toxins, like nickel, into your home? Nickel is a neurotoxin linked to health issues such as brain fog, behavioral changes, and cognitive impairment. So if you want to avoid these risks, knowing what to look for when shopping for flatware is crucial—especially at stores like Costco, where many sets contain nickel.
Why You Should Care About Nickel in Flatware
Nickel is a heavy metal commonly found in stainless steel flatware. While stainless steel is known for its durability and resistance to rust and corrosion, not all stainless steel is created equal. The number you see stamped on the back of your flatware, like 18/10 or 18/0, refers to the percentages of chromium and nickel in the material. Chromium (the first number) helps protect against rust, while nickel (the second number) adds shine and increases corrosion resistance. However, the presence of nickel comes with a health cost.
Nickel is classified as a neurotoxin, which can negatively affect your brain and nervous system. Chronic exposure to nickel has been linked to a variety of health issues,[1] including:
- Brain fog and cognitive impairment: Nickel can disrupt neurological function, leading to confusion, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating.
- Behavioral changes: Over time, exposure to nickel may cause shifts in mood and behavior, contributing to irritability or depression.
- Allergic reactions: Nickel is a common allergen, and even minor contact can cause skin rashes or irritation in sensitive people.
For families concerned with reducing toxin exposure, choosing nickel-free flatware is important in protecting long-term health.
Understanding Stainless Steel Numbers: What 18/0, 18/10, and 13/0 Mean
When shopping for flatware, you’ll often see numbers like 18/10, 18/8, or 18/0 stamped on the back. These numbers indicate the composition of the stainless steel:
- 18/10: This means the stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 10% nickel.
- 18/8: This contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel.
- 18/0: This is nickel-free, containing 18% chromium and 0% nickel.
Chromium is a crucial element that adds rust resistance to stainless steel, but the second number—nickel—is what you want to pay attention to. Flatware with a second number of zero (18/0) means it is completely free of nickel, making it a safer, non-toxic option for your family.[2]
Why Most Flatware at Costco Contains Nickel
Costco is a popular retailer known for its high-quality, budget-friendly kitchenware, but most of the flatware sets sold at Costco are made from 18/10 stainless steel. While this type of steel is durable and resistant to corrosion, it also contains 10% nickel, which, as mentioned, can pose health risks over time.
Interestingly, some Costco flatware sets feature “knives only” made from 13/0 stainless steel. This means that while the knives are nickel-free, the rest of the set (forks and spoons) still contains nickel. If you’re not aware of this distinction, you could unknowingly be exposing your family to nickel even if the knives are safe.
How to Avoid Nickel in Flatware
If you’re committed to avoiding nickel in your flatware, here’s what you need to do:
- Look for the 18/0 Stamp: The easiest way to ensure your flatware is nickel-free is to check the back of the utensil for the “18/0” stamp. This tells you that the flatware contains 18% chromium and 0% nickel, making it a safer choice.
- Consider 13/0 Knives: If you find a set at Costco where only the knives are 13/0, be aware that the other utensils in the set still likely contain nickel. It’s best to look for an entire set that is labeled 18/0.
- Explore Alternative Retailers: While Costco is a convenient option, it may not always offer the best selection of nickel-free flatware. Specialty kitchenware stores or online retailers may have more options for fully nickel-free flatware sets.
- Ask for Non-Toxic Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to reach out to manufacturers or customer service at stores like Costco to inquire about the specific materials used in their flatware sets. They can provide additional insight into whether the flatware contains nickel or other harmful substances. Additionally, many retailers offer flatware made specifically for those with nickel sensitivities, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations or special ordering options.
- Research Specialty Brands: There are brands dedicated to providing non-toxic kitchenware, including nickel-free flatware sets. Doing a bit of research into these specialty brands can help you find high-quality flatware made from safe materials. These brands often offer sets made from 18/0 stainless steel, and many are available through online marketplaces or smaller specialty retailers.
Why 18/0 Stainless Steel is the Gold Standard for Non-Toxic Flatware
By choosing flatware made from 18/0 stainless steel, you significantly reduce your exposure to heavy metals like nickel. Here’s why:
- Nickel-Free: The absence of nickel ensures that your flatware won’t contribute to long-term toxicity in your body, helping you avoid the neurological and cognitive health risks associated with nickel exposure.
- Durable and Resistant to Corrosion: Chromium, which makes up 18% of the steel, adds rust resistance, making 18/0 stainless steel flatware a durable and safe choice. You get all the benefits of high-quality stainless steel without the downsides of nickel.
- Better for Sensitive Skin: For individuals who are nickel-sensitive or suffer from nickel allergies, choosing 18/0 flatware can prevent skin irritations, rashes, and other allergic reactions from contact with nickel.
The Importance of Non-Toxic Kitchenware for Your Family’s Health
Our daily exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins often goes unnoticed, but even the smallest, everyday items—like flatware—can impact our long-term health. Over time, exposure to heavy metals like nickel can contribute to brain fog, fatigue, behavioral changes, and even more severe neurological issues. By switching to non-toxic alternatives like 18/0 stainless steel flatware, you are taking a proactive step in limiting exposure to toxins in your home.
Whether you’re shopping at Costco or another retailer, always ensure you understand what goes into the products you bring into your home. It’s not just about finding the best deal—it’s about providing the health and safety of your family for years to come.
Conclusion
Shopping for flatware might seem like a small decision, but it can significantly affect your health. Costco is a great option for high-quality products, but it’s essential to know what you’re looking for when it comes to flatware. Avoid sets made from 18/10 stainless steel or any that contain nickel, and instead opt for 18/0 or 13/0 stainless steel to limit your family’s exposure to harmful heavy metals.
By being mindful of the materials in your kitchenware, you’re making a powerful choice to prioritize your family’s health. Non-toxic, nickel-free flatware is a simple yet impactful way to ensure that even the smallest details of your home support a cleaner, healthier lifestyle.
References:
- Anyachor, Chidinma Promise, et al. “Mechanistic Considerations and Biomarkers Level in Nickel-Induced Neurodegenerative Diseases: An Updated Systematic Review.” IBRO Neuroscience Reports, vol. 13, July 2022, pp. 136–46. PubMed Central.
- Kamerud, Kristin L., et al. “Stainless Steel Leaches Nickel and Chromium into Foods During Cooking.” Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, vol. 61, no. 39, Oct. 2013, pp. 9495–501. PubMed Central.
- Clemente-Suárez, Vicente Javier, et al. “Mitochondria and Brain Disease: A Comprehensive Review of Pathological Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities.” Biomedicines, vol. 11, no. 9, Sept. 2023, p. 2488. PubMed Central.