As more Indian homes rediscover the charm of traditional brass utensils—also known as kansa or peetal—there’s a growing need to pause and ask: is it truly safe to use brass for cooking or eating every day?
The shine of brass dinnerware evokes a vintage warmth, and its connection to Ayurvedic practices makes it all the more desirable. But behind the aesthetic lies an important conversation about health, reactivity, and long-term safety. In this guide, BlackCarrot uncovers the facts about kansa metal and why ceramic and stainless steel remain the top choices for modern homes.
The Rise of Brass Utensils in Modern Indian Kitchens
With over 12,000 monthly searches, “brass utensils” are clearly trending again. Influencers, online stores, and even luxury brands have embraced this return to roots. Yet many customers remain unaware that brass is a reactive metal—a characteristic that raises serious health concerns when it comes to food and water.
Several brass utensil brands in India include disclaimers like “Do not store food or water for more than 4-5 hours,” often hidden in the fine print. Why? Because brass can leach into food, especially when it’s hot or acidic, making daily use potentially harmful.
What is Kansa or Brass (Peetal)?
Kansa, or brass, is an alloy made by combining copper and tin. It has a rich history in Indian households and Ayurvedic traditions. However, while copper has trace mineral benefits, both copper and tin are highly reactive with acidic foods, such as curries, tomato-based gravies, lemon-infused dishes, and even fermented items.
When these foods come into contact with brass or kansa, especially at high temperatures, metal ions can leach into your food or drink. This can lead to multiple health risks including metal toxicity, allergies, and even neurological complications with prolonged exposure.
Are Brass Utensils Safe for Cooking and Eating?
While it’s tempting to switch to kansa utensils for their traditional appeal, science and food safety regulations tell a different story.
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Brass is not recommended for cooking acidic foods or storing liquids.
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The material oxidizes easily and requires high maintenance.
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Long-term consumption of leached metals may lead to digestive issues, skin reactions, and neurological disorders.
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Children and pregnant individuals are especially vulnerable.
At BlackCarrot, we believe in creating homes that are both elegant and safe. That’s why we strongly advocate for alternatives like ceramics and food-grade stainless steel for everyday dinnerware.
Why Ceramic Dinnerware is the Ideal Choice
Ceramics are non-reactive, non-toxic, and have been trusted for centuries across cultures for their safety and versatility.
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✅ Food-Safe & Inert: No metal leaching, even with acidic or hot foods
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✅ Easy to Clean: Dishwasher safe, scratch-resistant
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✅ Aesthetic Variety: Available in modern minimal styles or warm earthy tones
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✅ Perfect for Entertaining: Adds visual elegance without compromising safety
Looking for timeless and safe dinner sets? Browse our ceramic dinnerware collection to discover designs that elevate your table.
The Power of Stainless Steel in Modern Homes
With over 60,000 monthly searches, stainless steel continues to be one of the most trusted materials for cookware and drinkware. It’s sturdy, stylish, and scientifically proven to be food-safe and non-reactive.
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✅ Resistant to corrosion and heat
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✅ Ideal for storage, cooking, and drinking
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✅ Durable enough for daily family use
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✅ Safer than brass or copper for long-term health
Whether you’re prepping meals or hydrating on the go, our stainless steel cutlery and bar accessories offer a polished and practical alternative to brass.
The Misconceptions Around Brass: What the Fine Print Doesn’t Tell You
It’s easy to assume that because brass has been used historically, it must be safe. But traditions need to evolve with science.
Many brands know the potential dangers of kansa and subtly shift responsibility to the consumer through vague disclaimers. When they recommend not storing food or water in brass for more than 4-5 hours, it’s because the material isn’t stable.
If you’re spending more for aesthetics, you deserve transparency. We at BlackCarrot believe that good design should never come at the cost of your health.
How to Use Brass Safely (If You Must)
Still in love with the golden finish of brass utensils? Here are some safer ways to use them:
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Use brass only for dry servings like nuts, sweets, or décor
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Avoid using them for liquids, curries, or hot meals
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Never leave food or water in them for hours
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Polish regularly to avoid tarnishing, but note this involves chemicals too
Better yet, choose ceramic or stainless steel options that bring the same elegance—without the risks. Explore our curated range at BlackCarrot for safer, contemporary dinnerware made to last.
Final Word: Choose Safer, Smarter, Stylish Tableware
Trends come and go, but your health stays for life. While brass utensils may be beautiful and nostalgic, they are not always the safest for everyday use. Choosing ceramic or stainless steel dinnerware ensures you’re making an informed and responsible decision for your home.
At BlackCarrot, we combine timeless aesthetics with modern safety standards—so you never have to compromise.
Shop now for ceramic dinnerware that blends beauty and safety!
Explore stainless steel essentials for your everyday lifestyle!