13 Plastic-Free Food Storage Containers Making You The Envy Of The Lunchroom
As people become more environmentally conscious, plastic-free containers are becoming increasingly popular. These containers are made from sustainable materials and are ideal for storing food. Here are 13 plastic-free food storage containers that are perfect for the eco-conscious consumer:
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Stasher Bag: These bags are made from silicone and are perfect for storing snacks, sandwiches, and other food items. They are reusable, dishwasher safe, and come in a variety of sizes.
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Bee’s Wrap: This is a reusable food wrap made from beeswax, cotton, and jojoba oil. It is perfect for wrapping sandwiches, cheese, and other food items.
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LunchBots: These are stainless steel containers that are perfect for storing food. They come in a variety of sizes and are dishwasher safe.
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Mason Jars: These jars are perfect for storing food and are also great for canning. They come in a variety of sizes and can be reused over and over again.
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Glasslock: These containers are made from glass and are perfect for storing food. They are microwave safe, dishwasher safe, and come in a variety of sizes.
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LunchSkins: These are reusable sandwich bags that are perfect for storing food. They are made from cotton and are dishwasher safe.
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U Konserve: These containers are made from stainless steel and are perfect for storing food. They come in a variety of sizes and are dishwasher safe.
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Bentgo: These are stackable containers that are perfect for storing food. They come in a variety of sizes and are dishwasher safe.
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Life Without Plastic: These containers are made from stainless steel and are perfect for storing food. They come in a variety of sizes and are dishwasher safe.
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Bamboo Utensils: These utensils are made from bamboo and are perfect for packing with your lunch. They are reusable and come in a variety of colors.
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EcoLunchbox: These containers are made from stainless steel and are perfect for storing food. They come in a variety of sizes and are dishwasher safe.
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LunchBuddy: These are reusable sandwich bags that are perfect for storing food. They are made from cotton and are dishwasher safe.
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Lunch Tote: This is a reusable lunch tote that is perfect for storing food. It is made from cotton and comes in a variety of colors.
In conclusion, there are plenty of plastic-free food storage container options available for the eco-conscious consumer. These containers are made from sustainable materials and are perfect for storing food. By using these containers, you can help reduce your carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the environment.
The Top Sustainable Storage Containers Keeping Your Pantry Plastic Free
When it comes to storing food, using sustainable and eco-friendly containers can make a big difference. Here are some of the top options for keeping your pantry plastic-free:
- Stasher’s reusable silicone bags are a great alternative to hard-to-recycle ziplock bags. They are safe for the freezer, oven, dishwasher, microwave, and sous vide machine.
- Caraway offers premium ceramic-coated glass food containers that are free of harmful chemicals and safe for the dishwasher, microwave, and oven.
- Package Free Shop’s airtight stainless steel zero-waste food containers are not only durable but can also be recycled at the end of their shelf life.
By choosing eco-friendly containers for food storage, you can reduce your plastic waste and help protect the environment.
The Best Eco-Friendly Food Storage Containers
1. Water or No Storage Whatsoever
When it comes to sustainable food storage solutions, sometimes the best option is something you already have at home. For instance, the natural protective skin found on produce can be an ultimate healthy food storage container. Non-cherry stone fruits, avocados, mangoes, tomatoes, apples, melons, squashes, garlic, onions, and potatoes are some examples of produce that come with their own packaging.
Learning how to store food properly is also important to prevent product waste. It is essential to know what needs refrigeration, what doesn’t, and what items can’t be stored together.
In addition to produce, water can also be an excellent zero-waste food storage solution. Hardy vegetables such as celery, potatoes, and carrots last longer after being cut if stored in fresh cool water. The same method can store cut apples and keep halved avocados looking greener for longer. Fresh herbs can also be stored by submerging the root end in a glass jar filled with an inch or two of water. Long-stemmed greens like collard greens, kale, and Swiss chard can be stored in a jar with water, just like flowers in a vase. Asparagus can also be stored in the same way after cutting off the ends.
Using water or no storage whatsoever can be a sustainable and eco-friendly way to store food. It not only reduces waste and plastic usage but also helps to keep food fresh for longer periods.
Plastic-Free Glass Food Storage Containers
When it comes to eco-friendly reusable food containers, glass is the best plastic-free food storage container. Glass containers are fully recyclable, and unlike plastic food containers, you don’t have to worry about common contaminants such as BPA, BPS, and phthalates. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about your glass containers being stained by tomato sauce or having a lingering scent of last week’s leftovers.
There are many options available for plastic-free glass food storage containers. In this section, we will discuss three popular brands: Caraway, Glasslock, and Old Glass Jars.
2. Caraway
Caraway offers non-toxic ceramic-coated glass cubes with Air Release Technology to keep your food fresh and odor-free. The containers come in three main sizes, along with additional Dot and Dash mini containers ideal for sauces and snacks. Silicone storage straps make toting your lunch to work a spill-proof breeze.
The refrigerator/freezer-safe glass containers are free of BPA, BPS, PFOA, PTFE, and heavy metals. With dishwasher-safe materials and a non-toxic non-stick ceramic coating, clean-up is a breeze. While these are generally oven, freezer, and microwave safe non-plastic food storage containers, the lids and Dot and Dash pieces should not be microwaved.
3. Glasslock
Glasslock plastic-free containers are tempered glass that is five times stronger than ordinary glass. It’s BPA-free, oven-safe (except for very high heat), non-toxic, refrigerator/freezer safe, microwave-safe, and dishwasher safe (though keep it on the top rack to be safe). The lids have an integrated water and airtight silicone seal, and if one mysteriously vanishes, you can get free replacements on their website. These glass containers come in several sizes and shapes (circular and rectangular).
4. Old Glass Jars
The most eco-friendly thing we can do is to reuse. The best non-plastic food storage container is something you probably already have in your kitchen: the humble glass jar. Pasta sauce, nut butter, vegetable oil, pickles, and many other types of food often come in reusable glass containers that serve as an excellent (and cheap) non-plastic tupperware solution. Reused glass also happens to be one of the few materials the FDA has deemed “generally…safe”. Just ensure you sanitize first with some hot water and zero waste dish soap.
Glass jars can store a range of foods, but given their shape, they’re ideal for liquids or small foods: soups and stews, homemade trail mix or granola, popcorn or potato chips, bulk grains, nuts and seeds, or smaller fruits and vegetables and herbs. Glass containers can also be stored in the fridge and freezer (if they aren’t filled to the brim, giving food room to expand when frozen). And if you need more motivation to choose the jar, know that for every six tons of reused glass containers, carbon dioxide emissions are reduced by one ton!
Stainless Steel Containers For Food
Stainless steel containers have been used for food storage in many countries, including India, where they are commonly used instead of plastic Tupperware. Stainless steel is a non-porous material, which means that colors and flavors will not embed themselves in the container. It also does not absorb bacteria or leach toxic chemicals like BPA and phthalates. For the most part, stainless steel can be used in a freezer, refrigerator, and oven.
While stainless steel is infinitely recyclable, it is often mixed with materials that are not recyclable, such as paints and resin linings. Therefore, it is recommended to opt for pure, unpainted stainless steel with no mixed materials.
Aluminum is another option, but given that it can leach heavy metals into food when heated or storing acidic foods, it is recommended to look for aluminum with coatings like ceramic so that the aluminum itself does not touch the food.
ECOlunchbox
ECOlunchbox provides a variety of durable non-plastic food storage options in various sizes, shapes, and configurations. Each piece of plastic-free tupperware is made from 100% high-quality, food-grade stainless steel, free of BPA, BPS, and phthalates. They also include the tare weight etched on the bottom, making purchasing bulk foods hassle-free. The Certified B Corp also offers pieces with non-toxic food grade silicone lids, like the Seal Cup Trio, making them the perfect non-plastic food storage containers for children.
Package Free Shop
Package Free Shop’s non-plastic storage and food containers are made from ultra-durable 18-10 food grade 316 stainless steel that is dishwasher, oven, and fire safe, but not microwave safe. The airtight lids feature a non-removable silicone seal that has been factory-installed without adhesive. At the end of the container’s lifespan, the base and silicone seal can be recycled wherever metal and silicone are accepted. Every container is shipped in a 100% plastic-free post-consumer cardboard box with paper wrapping, labels, and tape, all recyclable and compostable.
U Konserve
U Konserve has a range of environmentally friendly tupperware options, including circular and rectangular nesting storage and to-go containers. Everything is made with non-toxic stainless steel that is free of BPA, lead, and phthalates. In an effort to transition away from the formerly #4 plastic lids, they now offer food grade silicone lids for all containers. U Konserve is a member of 1% for the Planet.
Life Without Plastic
Life Without Plastic’s small and large stainless steel containers are fitted with airtight and water-tight lids. For food storage on the go, they offer a set of five nesting round containers in small and medium sizes. Non-plastic containers aside, they’re also one of the best zero waste online stores for homewares outside the kitchen.
Silicone Food Storage Containers
Silicone is a popular alternative to plastic for food storage containers. While the eco-friendliness of silicone is debatable, it is generally considered a better option than plastic. One of the most well-known brands in the alternative to Ziploc bags space is Stasher.
9. Stasher
Stasher offers a wide variety of sizes, colors, and shapes of silicone bags to choose from. These include smaller snack bags and sandwich bags, as well as larger bags for entire meals or bulk foods like grains and beans. Stasher bags are airtight, non-plastic food storage bags that are “self-sealing” and safe to use in the freezer, oven, dishwasher, microwave, and sous vide machine.
One of the main reasons people choose Stasher bags is that they are made with 100% pure platinum-grade silicone, which is better than food grade. This means they are free of BPS, BPA, lead, phthalates, and latex. If you want to freeze meat without plastic, Stasher bags are a great option.
Stasher uses an SA8000-certified manufacturing facility and partners with TerraCycle to provide customers with a means to responsibly recycle unwanted or damaged bags. Overall, Stasher bags are a great choice for those looking for non-plastic food storage containers that are safe and eco-friendly.
Silicone Food Storage Containers
10. Food Huggers
Food Huggers is a women-owned company that offers an excellent selection of non-plastic food storage options for oddly shaped foods. Their products are made of 100% platinum silicone, which is food-grade and free of BPA, lead, and phthalates.
One of their popular products is the Avocado Food Huggers, designed to keep avocado halves fresh for longer periods. The huggers come in various sizes to fit different fruits and vegetables, including butter, citrus, apples, onions, cheese blocks, and bowls.
These huggers are dishwasher, microwave, freezer, and oven safe, making them versatile and convenient for everyday use. They can also be recycled at the end of their lifespan through TerraCycle via their Zero Waste Box. All products are shipped in 100% plastic-free materials.
Food Huggers’ silicone food storage containers are an excellent alternative to plastic containers, providing a sustainable and eco-friendly option for storing food.
Sustainable Food Storage Wraps
11. Bee’s Wrap
Bee’s Wrap is a Vermont-based company that produces sustainable food storage cloths made of GOTS-certified organic cotton coated with sustainably harvested beeswax, organic jojoba oil, and tree resin. Their wraps are perfect for storing fresh veggies, cheese, sandwiches, snacks, and plates and bowls. Bee’s Wrap is a Certified B Corp and Green America Certified Company.
To ensure the longevity of Bee’s Wrap, it is essential to clean it correctly. After its useful life, you can compost it for a zero-waste solution. Bee’s Wrap is an excellent alternative to plastic wrap and sandwich bags.
12. SuperBee
SuperBee is a Certified B Corp and woman-owned company that makes reusable beeswax wraps and bags. Their wraps are made of 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton and a proprietary blend of sustainably harvested, pesticide-free beeswax, organic coconut oil, and tree resin. SuperBee empowers women in Thailand by paying them 20% more than the living wage suggested by the Fair Trade Association and giving back to the local community.
SuperBee’s reusable beeswax bags can last up to two years and be composted after use. Their wraps and bags are an excellent alternative to plastic wrap and sandwich bags, making them a sustainable and eco-friendly option for food storage.
Both Bee’s Wrap and SuperBee offer sustainable food storage solutions that are an excellent alternative to plastic wrap and sandwich bags. Beeswax wraps are an eco-friendly option that helps reduce waste and promote sustainability.
Cloth Eco-Friendly Food Storage Bags
13. Vejibag
Vejibag is a revolutionary non-plastic food storage alternative that is designed to keep fruits and vegetables fresh, crisp, and nutrient-rich for two weeks or more. The bags are made of undyed 100% French terry organic cotton that is grown, milled, and produced in the USA. Vejibags are available in standard and large sizes, and once dampened, they provide a humid, breathable environment to maintain the freshness and crispness of produce longer than plastic bags.
Vejibags are perfect for those who want to reduce their plastic consumption and are looking for a more sustainable alternative. The bags are easy to use and can be washed and reused many times. If storing for more than a few days, it is recommended to re-wet the bag.
Using Vejibag can help reduce the use of plastic bags and containers for fruits and vegetables storage. The bags are also a great alternative to bamboo lids and reusable produce bags, as they are made of organic cotton, which is a biodegradable material.
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Why Choose Non-Plastic Food Storage Containers?
The use of non-plastic food storage containers is becoming increasingly popular due to the negative impact of plastic on the environment and human health. Here are some reasons why you should consider using non-plastic food storage containers:
Eco-Friendly
Plastic containers are not recyclable, and even if they are, their recycling rate is very low. This leads to a significant amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills, waterways, and oceans, causing harm to the environment and marine life. Non-plastic food storage containers, on the other hand, are often made from eco-friendly materials such as glass, stainless steel, or silicone, which are recyclable and reusable.
Healthier Option
Plastic food storage containers contain harmful chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, which have been linked to various health problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and reproductive issues. Non-plastic food storage containers are free from these harmful chemicals, making them a healthier option for storing food.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Non-plastic food storage containers come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, making them a great addition to any kitchen. Glass jars, stainless steel containers, and silicone bags not only look aesthetically pleasing but also add a touch of elegance to your kitchen.
Cost-Effective
While plastic containers may seem like a more affordable option, in the long run, non-plastic food storage containers are more cost-effective. They are durable and can be reused multiple times, eliminating the need to constantly purchase new containers.
Zero Waste
Using non-plastic food storage containers promotes a zero-waste lifestyle by reducing the amount of plastic waste generated. By using reusable products, you are contributing to a sustainable future and reducing your carbon footprint.
In conclusion, choosing non-plastic food storage containers is a simple yet effective way to contribute to a healthier planet and a healthier you. By making the switch, you are not only reducing your carbon footprint but also promoting a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.
Which Plastic Is Safest For Using As Food Storage Containers?
When it comes to using plastic for food storage containers, it is important to consider the safety of the plastic and its impact on the environment. While reusable and non-plastic containers like glass, stainless steel, or silicone are better options, if you must use plastic, there are certain types of plastic that are considered safe for food storage.
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
HDPE is a non-toxic and durable plastic that is commonly used for food storage containers such as milk jugs, juice bottles, and cereal box liners. It is a safe option for food storage, but it should not be heated above its recommended temperature limits to avoid any potential chemical leaching. Therefore, it is not recommended to use HDPE containers in the microwave.
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
LDPE is a flexible and lightweight plastic that is often used for food storage bags, plastic wraps, and squeeze bottles. It is also considered safe for food storage, but like HDPE, it should not be heated above its recommended temperature limits.
Polypropylene (PP)
PP is a strong and heat-resistant plastic that is used for food storage containers such as yogurt cups, ketchup bottles, and syrup bottles. It is also considered safe for food storage and can be used in the microwave, but it is important to follow the recommended temperature limits.
It is important to note that all of these types of plastic should be used correctly and not heated above their recommended temperature limits to avoid any potential chemical leaching. It is always better to select reusable and non-plastic food storage containers whenever possible.
Are BPA-Free Food Storage Containers Safe?
BPA (bisphenol-A) is a chemical used to produce certain types of plastic, including polycarbonate plastic, often used to make food storage containers. Research has shown that exposure to high levels of BPA can potentially lead to health complications, like hormonal imbalance, reproductive issues, and increased risk of certain cancers.
BPA-free eco-friendly tupperware is generally safer than options that contain harmful chemicals. However, it is important to note that some BPA-free plastics may still contain other chemicals that have not been thoroughly tested for safety. Some studies have suggested that these alternative chemicals may also have health risks.
Minimizing exposure to toxic chemicals is better by choosing BPA-free food storage containers, like glass, stainless steel, or silicone food storage containers.
Final Thoughts On The Best Sustainable Food Containers
When selecting food storage containers, it is important to consider the safety of the container and its impact on the environment. While plastic containers can be safe for food storage, it is always better to select reusable and non-plastic options whenever possible.
In addition to glass, stainless steel, or silicone containers, sustainable food storage bags can also be a good option. It is important to properly dispose of old plastic containers and consider recycling or repurposing them.
By choosing non-plastic food storage alternatives that contribute to sustainable food systems, individuals can make a positive impact on the environment and their own health.
