A Non-Toxic Christmas Kitchen: Simple Swaps for a Healthier Celebration
Christmas is a time for joy, family, and great food! Let's keep it as healthy as possible (I'm looking at you, Grandma's cinnamon rolls) by keeping hidden toxins out of our kitchens. From cookware to packaging, this Christmas, let’s focus on simple, non-toxic swaps that make your holiday cooking healthier without sacrificing the festive spirit. Whether you’re baking cookies or preparing a hearty family dinner, these tips will help you celebrate with peace of mind.
1. Choose Safer Bakeware for Your Holiday Treats
Why It Matters:
Traditional non-stick bakeware can release harmful chemicals like PFAS at high temperatures. Opt for safer materials like stainless steel, cast iron, or glass.
Try This:
Bake cookies on stainless steel sheets or use silicone coated parchment (look for the “If You Care” brand of parchment and baking sheets) to prevent sticking.
Use glass or ceramic pie dishes for your holiday desserts.
2. Store Leftovers the Safe Way
Why It Matters:
Holiday meals often mean lots of leftovers. Storing food in plastic containers can leach chemicals into your food, especially if reheated later.
No need to run out and buy a whole new set of containers—save and wash glass jars from pasta sauces, pickles, and jams for no-cost bonus food storage!
Try This:
Use glass containers or stainless steel tins for leftovers.
Cover bowls with beeswax wraps instead of plastic wrap.
3. Create DIY Non-Toxic Cleaning Sprays
Why It Matters:
Post-meal cleanup can mean exposing yourself to harsh chemicals in commercial cleaning sprays.
Try This:
Make your own all-purpose cleaner with 1 part vinegar, 1 part water, and a few drops of lemon essential oil (avoid tea tree oil, which may be estrogenic).
Use baking soda to scrub tough messes on counters and stovetops.
4. Avoid BPA in Holiday Packaging
Why It Matters:
Canned goods used in holiday recipes (like pumpkin puree or cranberry sauce) often contain BPA in their linings.
Try This:
Opt for fresh or frozen ingredients whenever possible.
If you need canned goods, look for brands that explicitly state “BPA-free linings.”
5. Choose Fresh, Natural Decorations
Create a healthier holiday atmosphere by avoiding microplastics and VOCs often found in artificial decorations. Instead, opt for real greenery and natural materials. Make it a family tradition! Spend a weekend outdoors gathering evergreen branches, pinecones, and fallen leaves to craft your own garlands and tablescapes. Not only are these decorations more meaningful and personal than store-bought ones, but they’re also better for your health and the environment.
The fresh scent of real evergreens will fill your home with the natural aroma of the season, adding to the festive spirit. Plus, when the holidays are over, you can compost your natural decorations instead of having to store them in your closet.
6. Cook with Festive Ingredients from the Clean Fifteen
The EWG maintains a yearly guide to produce with the least amount of pesticide residues. Choose ingredients from the Clean Fifteen for your holiday meal!
Why It Matters:
Using produce with low pesticide residues helps reduce toxin exposure while keeping your dishes fresh and flavorful.
Try This:
Add festive fruits and veggies like avocados, pineapples, and sweet potatoes to your holiday table.
Recipe Idea: One-Pan Holiday Skillet Dinner
Keep Christmas simple and stress-free with a cast iron skillet dinner featuring seasonal ingredients!
Sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, cranberries, and your protein of choice (e.g., turkey or chicken thighs).
Roast everything in the skillet with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary for a festive, no-fuss meal.
This Christmas, enjoy the warmth and joy of the season without worrying about hidden toxins in your kitchen. With these simple swaps and ideas, you can focus on what matters most: good food, great company, and lasting memories.
What are your favorite non-toxic holiday tips? Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear how you celebrate!