Alexei Volkov
Freezing food is a great way to preserve flavour and nutrients, but the plastic containers we use to store food in the freezer can be harmful to the environment and our health. Some plastics contain potentially harmful chemicals that can contaminate food, especially during changes in temperature. To avoid this, there are several eco-friendly alternatives to plastic containers, such as glass jars, stainless steel containers, and beeswax food wraps. Glass containers are microwavable, dishwasher-safe, and freezable, but it is important to leave some space at the top to allow liquids to expand and avoid breakage. Stainless steel containers are also versatile and easy to clean, but they should never be used in the microwave. Other alternatives include aluminium foil, ice cube trays, and muffin pans. By using these alternatives, we can reduce plastic waste and enjoy our frozen meals without worrying about the negative impact of plastic on our health and the environment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Containers | Glass jars, stainless steel containers, Pyrex dishes, glass Tupperware, muffin pans, baking sheets, aluminium foil |
| Jars | Wide-mouth jars, Weck canning jars, Le Parfait jars, mason jars |
| Other | Waxed milk, juice, and cream cartons, butcher paper, waxed paper, parchment paper |
| Tips | Always leave headspace when freezing liquids, allow food to cool before freezing, label and date items |
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What You'll Learn
Glass containers and jars
Pyrex dishes and containers are freezer-safe and less likely to crack or shatter than regular glass containers. However, it is important to avoid using glass containers for food or drinks that you know will expand over time or when frozen, as this can cause the glass to break.
When freezing food in glass containers, it is recommended to allow the food to cool before placing it in the freezer. Additionally, coating the food in oil can help seal out air and prevent freezer burn. While glass containers are a more environmentally friendly alternative to plastic, they may break in the freezer, requiring extra cleanup.
Glass jars with glass lids, such as Weck canning jars and Le Parfait jars, are also available. These jars are ideal if you want to avoid any potential contact between the food and a non-glass lid.
Overall, glass containers and jars offer a sustainable and effective way to freeze food without plastic, but it is important to take the necessary precautions to prevent breakage.
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Stainless steel containers
One of the biggest advantages of using stainless steel containers is that they are stackable, which saves space in your freezer. Additionally, they are leakproof, airtight, and BPA-free. This means that you can safely store your food without worrying about leaks or chemical contamination.
However, it is important to note that stainless steel containers should never be used in the microwave. If you plan to reheat your frozen food in the microwave, you will need to transfer it to a microwave-safe container first.
When choosing stainless steel containers, look for options with tight-fitting lids to ensure your food stays fresh and prevent spills. Some stainless steel containers also come with handles, which can be convenient for transportation, but may impact their stackability.
Overall, stainless steel containers are a durable and environmentally friendly option for freezing food without plastic. They are a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to reduce their plastic waste and keep their food fresh and nutritious.
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Beeswax food wraps and bags
Beeswax wraps are ideal for freezing fruits and vegetables, such as sliced bananas, bell peppers, and berries. They can also be used to wrap leftovers, bread, cheese, and herbs. The wraps are breathable, which means that freezer burn can occur if food is stored for a long time. However, if you intend to consume the food in the near future, freezer burn won't be an issue.
Beeswax wraps are easy to clean and can be washed with cool water and mild dish soap, then air-dried. They should be stored in a bowl on the counter or kept flat or rolled in a kitchen drawer. With proper care, beeswax wraps can be reused over 100 times in a year.
In addition to wraps, beeswax bags are also available for storing food. To use a beeswax bag, place your food inside, leaving some room to seal the bag. Then, fold over the opening a couple of times and use the warmth of your hand to seal it shut.
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Ice cube trays and muffin tins
To use this method, simply scoop your chosen food into the ice cube tray or muffin tin compartments and place the tray in the freezer. Once the portions are frozen, you can transfer them out of the tray and into another container for longer-term storage. This could be a jar, another type of reusable container, or even wrapping them in paper for shorter-term freezing.
Using ice cube trays and muffin tins is a handy way to avoid using plastic, as it allows you to freeze multiple small portions at once, which can then be stored efficiently in a variety of containers. This method also makes it easy to take out exactly the amount you need, without having to thaw a large block of food.
It is important to note that when using this method, you should transfer the frozen portions to a different container for long-term storage. The trays and tins are best used for initial freezing and portioning, rather than for extended storage.
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Aluminium foil
When using aluminium foil for freezing, it is important to label the contents and the date of freezing. This helps in keeping track of what is in your freezer and ensures that you use the items in a timely manner.
In addition to aluminium foil, parchment paper can also be used for wrapping and storing food items in the freezer. Parchment paper is excellent for wrapping items like baked goods, burgers, or individual portions of meat. It prevents sticking and is compostable in many cases. To use parchment paper for freezing, wrap the items snugly and then place them in a larger container or reusable bag for added protection.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use glass jars, stainless steel containers, beeswax food wraps and bags, and silicone-sealed containers.
Always leave headspace when freezing liquids in glass containers to avoid breakage. Glass jars without shoulders or with wide mouths are preferable. Pyrex containers are also a good option as they are less likely to crack or shatter.
Many fruits do not need packaging in the freezer, such as tomatoes, bananas, and peaches.
You can use baking sheets, aluminium foil, butcher paper, waxed paper, or freezer tape. However, these options may not be as durable or sustainable as glass or stainless steel containers.
