Some plastics have been known to leak plasticizers (bisphenol and phthalates) into the food they contain, especially when heated. Because such compounds are suspected of being endocrine disruptors it seems best to avoid eating hot food from a plastic container.
Recently bamboo bowls, cups and plates have become available. As far as I can tell these are made from some kind of composite material which contains bamboo fibers and something that glues these together.
The only information is that it's: renewable, dishwasher safe, bio-degradable (the last two claims seem contradictory), food safe, but not suited to be microwaved.
Is it possible that these kitchen-wares are safer than other plastic bowls, plates and so on? Is it possible to even assess the risks?