CUTLERY
Of the cutlery tested, Jaya's was the most durable. It's made from natural plant starch, and moms said they liked the smooth, comfy feel. The fork prongs withstood kids' bending (and, yes, stabbing). ($50 for a 250-count combo-pack case; amazon.com)

"These were great. I washed and reused them!" --Nancy Brooke Smith, mom of Roma, 7, Bea, 5, and Frances, 2, New York City

PLATES/BOWLS
Who knew? The leftover material from sugar refineries creates fabulous, sturdy dishes. StalkMarket's microwave-safe, oil-resistant plates and bowls can handle anything from hot soup to fruit salad. ($36 for 25 12-packs; amazon.com)

"They worked just as well as the regular stuff. I let milk soak in a bowl all day and it stayed strong." --Stacy Glascock, mom of Alex, 5, and Abby, 2, Cedar Falls, IA

CUPS
Eco-Products's cold cups are made from corn; its hot cups, from paperboard and corn. They withstood icy drinks and steaming coffee. (Cold: $8.50 for 50 12-oz cups, hot: $7 for 50 12-oz cups; eco products.com)

"The hot cups were better than coffee shops' cups -- I didn't need a sleeve. I even reheated one and used it later." --Alice Todaro, mom of Jeffrey, 4, and Lauren, 2, Wilmot, OH

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