What is the difference between platinum silicone and regular silicone?

When choosing silicone food storage bags, understanding the difference between platinum silicone and regular silicone is crucial for making an informed decision about your family's health and safety. These two types of silicone differ significantly in their manufacturing process, purity, and performance characteristics.

Manufacturing Process

The primary difference lies in how these silicones are cured. Regular silicone, also known as peroxide-cure or tin-cure silicone, uses chemical catalysts that can leave residual compounds in the final product. In contrast, platinum silicone uses platinum as a catalyst during the curing process, which creates a purer, more inert material.

Purity and Safety

Platinum silicone is considered food-grade and medical-grade because of its exceptional purity. During the curing process, platinum acts as a catalyst without becoming part of the final product, leaving behind no harmful residues. This makes it completely safe for direct food contact and eliminates concerns about chemical leaching.

Regular silicone, particularly lower-grade variants, may contain fillers, additives, or residual curing agents that could potentially migrate into food, especially when exposed to heat or acidic foods. These compounds can affect both the taste of food and, more importantly, pose potential health risks.

Heat Resistance and Durability

Platinum silicone offers superior heat resistance, typically withstanding temperatures from -40°C to 230°C (-40°F to 446°F) without degrading. This makes it perfect for use in freezers, microwaves, ovens, and dishwashers. Regular silicone often has lower heat tolerance and may become brittle or discoloured when exposed to extreme temperatures repeatedly.

The durability of platinum silicone is exceptional. Its non-porous surface resists staining, odour absorption, and bacterial growth, maintaining its integrity even after hundreds of uses. Regular silicone may develop micro-cracks over time, becoming less hygienic and potentially harboring bacteria.

Flexibility and Performance

Platinum silicone maintains its flexibility throughout its lifespan, ensuring that seals remain airtight and watertight. This consistent performance is essential for food storage, as it prevents freezer burn and keeps food fresh longer. Regular silicone may become stiff or lose its elasticity over time, compromising the seal quality.

Environmental Impact

Both types of silicone are more environmentally friendly than single-use plastics, but platinum silicone's superior durability means it lasts significantly longer, reducing the need for replacement and minimising waste. A single platinum silicone bag can replace hundreds of single-use plastic bags over its lifetime.

Cost Considerations

While platinum silicone products typically cost more upfront, their longevity and superior performance make them more economical long-term. The investment pays off through reduced food waste, elimination of single-use bag purchases, and the peace of mind that comes with using the safest available material.

Identifying Platinum Silicone

Reputable manufacturers will clearly label their products as "platinum silicone" or "platinum-cure silicone." Look for certifications from food safety authorities and medical device regulators. High-quality platinum silicone should have no odour, maintain clarity (if clear), and feel smooth and consistent to the touch.

For families prioritising health, sustainability, and long-term value, platinum silicone represents the gold standard in food storage solutions.