Sofia Martinez
Plastic is incredibly convenient for storing food, but it's not the only option. Plastic waste is a scourge on the environment, and it can be harmful to human health. Plastic leaching (when chemicals transfer from plastic to food) can occur during changes in temperature, and studies suggest that this is how plastic ends up in our bloodstreams. The good news is that there are plenty of eco-friendly alternatives for storing food without plastic. From glass jars and containers to stainless steel and beeswax wraps, there's a wide range of options to choose from. These alternatives are reusable, washable, and often freezable, making them perfect for storing leftovers and preserving food.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reusable bags | Cloth bags, mesh bags, and bulk bags |
| Reusable containers | Glass jars, Pyrex, stainless steel containers, ceramic pots, slow cookers |
| Reusable wraps | Beeswax wraps, vegan wax wraps, aluminium foil |
| Reusable ice trays | Silicone ice cube trays |
| Reusable sandwich bags | Cloth wraps, stainless steel baggies |
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What You'll Learn
Glass jars and containers
You can purchase glass storage jars and containers in a variety of sizes from hardware stores, or online and in-store from some sustainable cookware shops. Glass jars from previously purchased food can also be reused after thorough cleaning. Mason jars are a popular choice for storing food without plastic, and they can be used for soups, broths, salad dressings, grains, flours, smoothies, juices, herbs, spices, nuts, and seeds. Glass containers are also suitable for storing leftovers in the freezer, but it is important to avoid freezing liquids in glass as they can expand when frozen.
When choosing glass containers, consider the types of food you will be storing and the size and shape that will be most useful. For example, rectangular glass containers with lids are suitable for food storage in the fridge, while thicker glass jars are recommended for the freezer. Glass containers with bamboo tops and silicone seals are also available for those seeking a zero-waste option.
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Stainless steel containers
Planet Box makes compartmentalised lunch boxes for kids, and you can also buy stainless steel lunch boxes for food on the go. You can also buy stainless steel food containers in all shapes and sizes, including round, rectangular, square, hexagonal, and oval. These containers are eco-friendly, reusable, and great for the home, office, and school. They are also versatile, as they can go in the oven, over a gas burner, in the fridge, freezer, and then the dishwasher.
You can buy stainless steel containers from restaurant supply stores, which are used for leftovers, soups, and slaws. These containers can also be used for fermenting vegetables and curing meat. They nest, stack, and have clip-on lids and racks to fit. They are also super versatile and cheap.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, you can also buy Pyrex containers with plastic lids.
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Beeswax wraps
Making the switch from plastic wrap to beeswax wraps is an easy way to reduce your plastic waste and contribute to a brighter, cleaner future for the planet. They are a return to traditional, non-plastic, and zero-waste food storage methods. You can even make your own beeswax wraps at home using DIY kits or by melting grated beeswax on sheets of fabric.
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Aluminium foil
If you are looking for alternatives to aluminium foil, you can opt for cling wraps and lids, or airtight containers made of glass, food-grade silicone, or stainless steel. You can also use silicone suction lids for the bowls and pots that you already own. If you are storing food in the freezer, thick glass jars are a good option.
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Cloth bags
When shopping, you can bring your own reusable cloth bags to the store and fill them with produce, dry goods, and bulk items. This reduces the use of plastic bags and packaging. Some cloth bags are specifically designed for bulk shopping and can be easily filled and transported.
At home, cloth bags can be used to store a variety of food items. For example, you can put your bagels in a cloth bag and then place them in a ceramic pot or slow cooker, which helps keep them fresh for longer. Cloth bags are also suitable for storing bread, keeping it soft and protected from mould.
In addition to cloth bags, there are other plastic-free options for food storage, such as glass jars, stainless steel containers, and beeswax wraps. However, cloth bags offer a flexible, lightweight, and cost-effective solution for storing and transporting food items without contributing to plastic waste.
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Frequently asked questions
Some plastic-free alternatives to storing food include glass jars, stainless steel containers, beeswax wraps, aluminium foil, and silicone suction lids.
Some tips for storing food without plastic include reusing glass jars from previously purchased food, buying dry goods in bulk and storing them in glass jars, and using cloth bags for bread.
Storing food without plastic can reduce waste, keep food free of chemicals, and is more environmentally friendly. Plastic can leach chemicals into food, especially during changes in temperature, and can have negative effects on hormonal health.
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