Omar Khalid
Vitamix containers are available in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, plastic, and glass. While Vitamix initially used stainless steel containers, they transitioned to transparent polycarbonate in the early 1990s to allow users to see the blending process. However, some people prefer stainless steel or glass containers due to concerns about plastic containers scratching over time and potential health risks associated with plastic. In 2007, Vitamix introduced BPA-free Tritan copolyester containers, addressing some of these concerns. Today, Vitamix offers a range of container options, including the standard 64-ounce container made of BPA-free Eastman Tritan copolyester and stainless steel containers in various sizes, such as 48 ounces and 32 ounces. These containers are compatible with different Vitamix blender models, including the Smart System, Classic, and Space Saving varieties.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Old Vitamix containers | Stainless steel |
| Current Vitamix containers | Plastic (transparent polycarbonate) |
| Plastic container switch date | Early 1990s |
| Plastic type | BPA-free Eastman Tritan Copolyester |
| Plastic container capacity | 64 oz, 48 oz, 32 oz |
| Plastic container pros | Durable, transparent, compatible with full-size blenders |
| Plastic container cons | Gets scratched, discolored, and cloudy over time |
| Stainless steel container switch date | 2020 |
| Stainless steel container capacity | 48 oz |
| Stainless steel container pros | Durable, easy to clean, no plastic in contact with food, compatible with full-size blenders |
| Stainless steel container cons | Outside gets hot with hot blends, fingerprints show easily |
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What You'll Learn
- Vitamix switched from stainless steel to plastic containers in the 1990s
- Plastic containers are BPA-free Eastman Tritan Copolyester
- Plastic containers are durable, but some prefer stainless steel
- Stainless steel containers are dishwasher-safe and compatible with all full-size blenders
- Vitamix containers are configured by the category of machine
Vitamix switched from stainless steel to plastic containers in the 1990s
Vitamix blenders used to be made of stainless steel but in the early 1990s, the company switched to plastic transparent polycarbonate plastic. This allowed users to see what they were blending. Stainless steel Vitamix containers are incompatible with current Vitamix models.
Some people dislike how plastic containers get scratched up over time, and there are concerns about preparing food in plastic containers. However, the plastic used by Vitamix is durable, with some users reporting no issues even after 15+ years of use. The plastic containers are also BPA-free, with Vitamix switching to this in 2007.
In 2020, Vitamix released a new stainless steel container option, bringing metal containers back after almost 30 years. The stainless steel container is perfect for making flours as it does not get damaged and does not hold smells. It is also dishwasher-safe and compatible with all full-size Vitamix blenders.
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Plastic containers are BPA-free Eastman Tritan Copolyester
In 2007, Vitamix switched from using transparent polycarbonate containers to using plastic containers made from BPA-free Eastman Tritan copolyester. This type of plastic is renowned for its durability, reusability, and safety. It is used in millions of kitchens worldwide and has been certified by the world's leading agencies for food contact safety, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Eastman Tritan copolyester is a fundamentally different type of plastic than those that contain BPA, such as polycarbonate. It is made without bisphenols or phthalates and is certified by the U.S. FDA, EFSA, and global food-contact safety agencies. Tritan is also free of bisphenol S and any other bisphenol compounds, as proven by third-party labs.
The switch to Tritan copolyester was made in response to consumer demand for BPA-free products. Tritan is trusted by hundreds of companies and is used to make a variety of products, including appliances, drinkware, water bottles, and food storage containers. It is also shatter-resistant and easy to clean, making it a popular choice for cosmetic packaging and eyewear.
However, there has been some controversy surrounding the safety of Tritan. In 2011, researchers tested 455 store-bought food containers and storage products, including several made from Tritan, and found that 72% leached synthetic estrogens. This has sparked a debate about the potential dangers of plastics in food containers and packaging, with some comparing the tactics used by the plastics industry to those used by Big Tobacco to stifle scientific evidence. Nonetheless, Tritan remains a popular choice for many companies and consumers due to its durability and safety certifications.
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Plastic containers are durable, but some prefer stainless steel
Plastic containers are durable, but some people prefer stainless steel for various reasons. Durability is one of the most significant advantages of stainless steel containers over plastic ones. Stainless steel containers are less likely to crack, warp, or melt than plastic containers, which may become brittle and shatter over time. Stainless steel containers are also chemically inert, corrosion-resistant, and robust, making them safer and longer-lasting.
Stainless steel containers are also favoured for their safety. Plastic containers have been known to contain harmful chemicals such as BPA, phthalates, and PVC, which can leach into food and potentially cause health issues. On the other hand, stainless steel containers are made of non-toxic materials and are free of these harmful chemicals, providing peace of mind for those concerned about the health risks associated with plastic.
The versatility of stainless steel containers is another advantage. They can be used for a variety of food storage needs and are suitable for both dry and wet ingredients. Stainless steel containers are also microwave-safe, although it is important to refer to the manufacturer's instructions and choose containers with a microwave-safe symbol. Additionally, stainless steel containers are leak-proof and airtight, helping to keep food fresh for longer.
Another factor to consider is the environmental impact. Stainless steel is 100% recyclable, making it a more environmentally friendly choice than plastic, which is made from non-renewable resources. Stainless steel containers can also be passed down through generations, further reducing waste.
While plastic containers offer advantages such as lower initial cost and design options, stainless steel containers provide durability, safety, versatility, and environmental benefits that appeal to those seeking long-term value and a healthier, more sustainable choice for food storage.
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Stainless steel containers are dishwasher-safe and compatible with all full-size blenders
Vitamix blenders have been around for a while, and the containers have evolved over time. In the early 1990s, Vitamix switched from using stainless steel containers to transparent polycarbonate ones. This change allowed users to see what they were blending. However, some people were concerned about the use of plastic, especially as the containers could get scratched over time.
In 2007, Vitamix addressed these concerns by switching to BPA-free Tritan copolymer plastic. Despite this being a safer alternative, some people still prefer to avoid any kind of plastic container for their blends. As a result, Vitamix reintroduced stainless steel containers in 2020, combining them with the clear, BPA-free lids introduced in 2007.
The 48-ounce stainless steel Vitamix containers are compatible with all full-size Vitamix blenders. They are incredibly durable and versatile, perfect for blending everything from non-dairy milk to tough raw vegetables, nuts, and seeds. The stainless steel construction also makes them easy to clean, and they are dishwasher-safe.
The clear lid on the stainless steel container allows users to monitor and adjust blends without stopping the machine. The container also features an ergonomic handle and a no-drip spout, making it easy to hold and pour, even when it's full. The patented container design creates the Vitamix Vortex, ensuring faster and smoother blends. Additionally, the laser-cut blades are resistant to dulling or bending, maintaining their quality over time.
The stainless steel container is an excellent option for those who prefer a plastic-free alternative. It is worth noting that the outside of the container can heat up with hot blends, so caution should be exercised to avoid burns. Overall, the Vitamix 48-ounce stainless steel container is a durable, versatile, and easy-to-clean addition to any full-size Vitamix blender.
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Vitamix containers are configured by the category of machine
Vitamix containers are designed to be compatible with specific machine categories. The three main product lines are Legacy (Classic and Next Generation), Smart System ?(Ascent and Venturist), and Explorian. Space Saving was another line, but it was discontinued in 2019.
The Smart System blenders were introduced in 2016 and feature SELF-DETECT technology, which automatically adjusts settings based on the container used. These machines are only compatible with containers featuring an NFC chip. Classic machines, on the other hand, are compatible with a wide range of containers, including those from the Legacy line.
The Space Saving blenders are limited to smaller batches of 20 to 40 ounces due to their smaller size. These machines are not compatible with Smart System or Classic containers, as they have different magnet configurations and size constraints.
The Explorian line of blenders is compatible with Legacy containers, specifically those with a 2.2 HP motor (5300 and 6500 models).
It is important to note that not all Vitamix containers are interchangeable with all models. Some containers are designed for specific tasks and have different quantity limitations, so users may consider purchasing additional containers for their machines.
Regarding the materials used for Vitamix containers, the company transitioned from stainless steel to transparent polycarbonate in the early 1990s, allowing users to see the contents during blending. In 2007, Vitamix adopted BPA-free Tritan copolymer plastic, which is known for its durability. While some users express concerns about using plastic containers for food preparation, others find the plastic containers reliable and durable.
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Frequently asked questions
Vitamix containers are made of BPA-free Eastman Tritan copolyester, a type of plastic.
No, Vitamix used to make their containers out of stainless steel. In the early 1990s, they switched to transparent polycarbonate, a type of plastic.
Vitamix switched to transparent polycarbonate in the early 1990s to allow users to see what they were blending.
The plastic used for Vitamix containers is durable and of higher quality compared to other plastic blender containers.
Yes, Vitamix released a new stainless steel container in 2020. This container is compatible with all full-size Vitamix blenders.
