Why Should You Care About Non-Toxic Containers for Food Prep and Storage?
How many times have you cooked dinner and then thrown the leftovers into a Tupperware container without much thought? If you’re like me, a lot. Today, these plastic containers, long a staple in our kitchens, have come under scrutiny due to concerns about their potential to release harmful chemicals into our food. Fortunately, there are safer alternatives on the market. Read on to see our recommendation for the best non-toxic food containers for preparation and storage. Following our favorites is a detailed discussion of the various materials in non-toxic containers and the chemicals to avoid.
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The Best Non-Toxic Food Storage Containers
Traditional fridge and pantry plastic food storage containers often contain toxic chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA), Bisphenol S (BPS), and phthalates, known endocrine disruptors linked to infertility, obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.1 To ensure your well-being, opting for non-toxic containers is a smart move. Here are our recommendations:
EcoLunchBox
- EcoLunchBox’s 3-piece non-toxic stainless steel to go food storage containers are are highly durable and lightweight.
- They are free from BPA’s.
- The clips can be loosened so kids can open them easily.
- Dishwasher safe.
- EcoLunchBox is a certified b corporation, meaning they are committed to using business as a force for good.2
Caraway
- Caraway’s beautiful, non-toxic ceramic-coated glass containers with glass lids are dishwasher, microwave, oven (up to 450°F), refrigerator, and freezer safe.
- The ceramic coating is BPA, BPS, and heavy metal free.
- The full set comes with dot and dash containers to hold accompanying condiments, such as salad dressing or ketchup, inside the main containers.
Anchor Hocking
- Anchor Hocking’s tempered glass storage containers are safe for fridge, freezer, oven (bases only), microwave, and dishwasher.
- While this set has plastic lids, they are BPA-free. Plastic lids are less concerning than plastic food containers as they rarely come in contact with the food.
- Their storage comes with a 5-year limited warranty and is USA-made.
Rubbermaid
- Rubbermaid’s Brilliance non-toxic glass food storage set is, well, um..brilliant. It’s beautifully designed with 100% airtight, leak-proof lids.
- The built-in vents allow you to microwave food splatter-free without removing the lid.
- The set is BPA-free and microwave, dishwasher, and freezer-safe. The bases are oven-safe up to 450°F.
- The BPA-free plastic lids are odor and stain-resistant, and the modular set is stackable.
Pyrex
- Pyrex’s Freshlock glass storage has airtight and leak-proof BPA-free lids.
- They are dishwasher, freezer, and microwave-safe and come with unique built-in write-and-erase labels on the lids. The bases are conventional oven-safe.
- Pyrex is backed by a 2-year limited warranty.
OXO
- Oxo’s glass storage containers are made from highly durable BPA-free borosilicate glass. The bases are designed to transition from the freezer to the oven without fully thawing.
- The covers are plastic with a silicone seal.
Ball Mason Jars
- Ball Mason Jars, made since 1886, are terrific for storing wet and dry goods and preserving.
- These soda-lime glass jars are available in a variety of sizes, are freezer-safe (wide mouth design only), BPA-free, and made in the USA.
- They also make stylish drinking glasses or pantry storage containers and can be used for creative decor and crafts.
Urban Green
- Urban Green’s non-toxic pantry storage containers are made of highly durable borosilicate glass.
- The eco-friendly bamboo lids close securely with a silicone ring.
- The containers are plastic, BPA, and phthalate-free.
U Konserve
- U Konserve’s unique stainless steel to go food storage containers come with plastic-free silicone lids.
- The lids are easy for kids to open and leak-proof.
- The containers are dishwasher and freezer-safe, and the bases are oven-safe up to 300°F.
- The bases are 304 (18/8) stainless steel and BPA, phthalate, and lead-free.
- U Konserve is a certified b corporation.
Hydroflask
- Yep, Hydroflask makes more than water bottles! Their durable stainless steel food storage containers and cute kid’s food containers are made with 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel.
- They have an easy-grip lid and a leakproof tight seal and are double vacuum insulated to keep hot food hot and cold food cold.
- They are BPA-free and dishwasher-safe.
Stasher
- Stasher’s food-grade silicone storage bags offer a sustainable solution, allowing you to break free from the constant cycle of purchasing disposable plastic bags or wrapping food in plastic wrap.
- They come in a variety of colors and different sizes with a patented pinch-lock silicone seal and are endlessly reusable.
- Stasher bags are dishwasher-safe, microwavable, and freezer-friendly. They are oven-safe up to 425°F.
- Stasher is a certified b corporation.
Bee’s Wrap
- No food storage list would be complete without mentioning sustainable beeswax wraps that let you ditch single-use plastics.
- Bee’s Wrap beeswax wraps are made with organic cotton, beeswax, organic plant oil, and tree resin. If you’re vegan, they also make wraps with plant-based wax (coconut and soy).
- They are reusable, plastic-free, and made in the USA.
- Bee’s Wrap is a certified b corporation.
What Are The Safest Non-Toxic Food Storage Container Materials?
Glass Containers
Glass is a top pick for the best food storage containers. They are non-porous, ensuring no harmful substances leach into your food. Glass is recyclable. Even if it did end up in a landfill, it does not leach chemicals into the earth. Plus, glass containers are durable and can be used for storage and reheating. Best of all, glass food storage containers do not retain smells or stains.
Stainless Steel Containers
Stainless steel containers are another excellent choice for non-toxic food storage. They are corrosion-resistant, don’t retain odors or flavors, are stain resistant and easy to clean. Stainless steel to go food storage containers are lightweight, and environmentally friendly, as they are recyclable and have a long lifespan.
Silicone Containers
Silicone food storage bags are a versatile option for safe food prep. They are free from harmful chemicals, heat-resistant, and flexible, making them ideal for storage and cooking. Silicone food storage bags are also lightweight and easy to store, making them a practical choice for any fridge or pantry.
Beeswax Wraps
Beeswax wraps are a unique and eco-friendly way to store food safely. Made from cotton infused with beeswax, resin, and plant oil, they create a natural barrier to keep food fresh. Beeswax wraps are perfect for wrapping sandwiches, cheese, fruits, and more.
Help me get started!
Do you want to live a less-toxic, more eco-friendly lifestyle but have no idea where to begin? Here’s our “Non-Toxic 101” guide to get you started today!
What Chemicals Should I Avoid in Food Containers?
Stiff plastic containers are usually made with chemicals like BPA and BPS, while softer plastic items like Ziploc bags often contain phthalates.
These hazardous compounds can seep into the stored food and then into our bodies, posing a risk of various health complications.
Here’s a little more about each toxic chemical:
❌ Bisphenol A (BPA): Often used in producing plastics and epoxy resins, BPA can be found in various everyday items such as food containers, water bottles, and even the lining of canned goods. It’s a known endocrine disruptor and has been associated with hormone-related issues, potentially impacting fertility and increasing health risks.3
❌ Bisphenol S (BPS): Increasingly used as a BPA substitute in various products, BPS is also found in items like thermal paper receipts and some plastics. While it’s marketed as a safer alternative, emerging research suggests that BPS shares many of the harmful effects of BPA, including endocrine disruption and potential impacts on fetal development.4
❌ Phthalates: Often hidden under “fragrance” in cosmetics, personal care products, and plastic items. Phthalates can cause skin irritation and increase the risk of asthma and allergies. They are also endocrine disruptors, potentially affecting hormones and fertility.5
Taking Action
Now that you’re armed with knowledge about non-toxic storage containers, here’s how you can take action:
- Assess your current food storage containers and replace any that may be toxic.
- Invest in high-quality, non-toxic storage containers for your pantry and fridge that suit your needs.
- Educate friends and family about the importance of non-toxic food storage.
Remember, making informed choices about the containers you use for food prep can contribute to your overall well-being and help reduce your environmental footprint.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to safe food preparation, choosing from our list of the best non-toxic storage containers is smart and responsible. Whether you opt for glass, stainless steel, silicone, or beeswax wraps, these alternatives offer peace of mind and a healthier approach to storing and enjoying your meals.
Your Turn
What are your favorite non-toxic storage containers, and how have they improved your food prep routine? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!
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Sources
- Poison.org, National Institute of Health, Healthline, and Zero Breast Cancer ↩︎
- B Lab ↩︎
- Poison Control ↩︎
- National Center for Biotechnology Information ↩︎
- Zero Breast Cancer ↩︎
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