As someone who loves to cook, I am always looking for the best and safest food storage containers for my food. I have tried many different types and brands over the years, and I have found that there are a few key things to look for when choosing a food storage container.
Now, I will share with you the three main things to consider when selecting a food storage container for your home.
What Materials are Safest Food Storage Containers Made from?
When selecting materials to make food storage containers, it is important to choose safe options. Plastic and glass are generally the most popular choices, as they are lightweight and contain no harmful chemicals.
However, certain types of plastic must be avoided due to the presence of bisphenol A (BPA), a known endocrine disruptor. BPA-free plastic products may be labeled as “Made Without BPA,” “No BPA” or “BPA-free.”
Glass itself is naturally non-toxic but must be handled with care as it is prone to shattering. Alternatively, several metal options such as stainless steel and tin can be used; these metals typically won’t react with acidic foods, making them ideal for long-term storage.
In addition, ceramic containers should also be considered; just make sure they don’t have a glazed enamel coating that could contain lead or other potentially dangerous metals.
Ultimately, when choosing materials for a food storage container safety should always come first.
Top 5 The Best Safest Food Storage Containers to buy
How to Choose the Best and Safest Food Storage Containers?
Choosing the best and safest food storage containers can be a challenge, as there are many different shapes, sizes, and materials available. When selecting food storage containers, it is important to consider the purpose they will be used for, as well as their compatibility with the foods that will be stored in them.
Some questions to consider: Is the container suitable for both cold and hot items? Are they airtight or leakproof? Is there enough room for larger items such as casseroles or entire chicken roasts?
Additionally, heat-resistant glass or plastic is recommended if you plan on using the containers in microwaves. Finally, inspect the container before purchasing to verify that there are no cracks or weak spots. With these considerations in mind, you can make sure you have chosen the right safest food storage containers!
Materials
As above, I have shown you the safest material types of storage containers. Now it’s time to see deeply its pros and cons:
Glass
Safest glass food storage containers are usually the safest option, as they will not leach any chemicals into your food. Plus, glass is also non-porous and can be easily cleaned. However, its major disadvantage is that it is vulnerable to breakage.
Pros
- Plastic, toxic free
- Can use in the microwave, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, oven
- Non-porous surface for easy cleaning
- Recyclable and eco friendly
- Does not impact the food taste, smells, or stains
- Does not create the metallic flavors
- A beautiful look that is suitable for most kitchen decor
Cons
- Heavier and more expensive
- Require careful handling and care
Stainless steel
Stainless steel does not release any toxins and it is highly durable. Plus, it is also the best option for reheating and storing food. However, its major disadvantage is that it can create a metallic flavor if you are not careful with cleaning.
Pros
- Durable and strong
- Non-toxic and non-porous surface
- Can be used in dishwashers, ovens, stoves, and refrigerators
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Stay like new for a long time
Cons
- Not microwave free
- More expensive than plastic or glass containers
- Can leach the chromium and nickel into foods
- Without polishment, it may create a metallic flavor
Silicone
Silicone is an excellent material for safest plastic food containers. It is non-toxic, flexible and lightweight. Plus, it is also resistant to high temperatures and can be easily bent to fit into tight spaces. However, its major disadvantage is that it cannot be used in the oven or dishwasher.
Pros
- Flexible and durable
- Lightweight and safe for food contact, nice for traveling
- Non-toxic and non-porous
- Microwave, oven, freezer and refrigerator safe
- Unbreakable, flexible and soft that is useful for kids
- Can be bent to fit into tight spaces
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Does not react with acidic foods
Cons
- Poor quality silicone might have fillers
- Can absorb some smells and tastes of food
Ceramics
Ceramic containers are a great option for food storage. They are non-toxic, reusable, and dishwasher-safe. Plus, they also come in many beautiful and decorative designs so you can find something to match your kitchen decor. However, they may be prone to cracking or chipping if not handled with care.
Pros
- Non-toxic & Eco friendly
- Can handle a wide range of temperatures
- Microwave, dishwasher, freezer, and refrigerator safe
- Beautiful design and durable
Cons
- Fragile and prone to cracking or chipping if not handled with care
- Can be heavy, so not suitable for traveling
- Expensive than other materials.
Size & shape
The size and shape of your food storage containers can vary according to your needs. If you are cooking for one or two people, then a smaller container would be perfect. On the other hand, if you are cooking for a large family, then a larger container may be necessary.
Also, consider the shape of the containers. For example, round containers are great for storing liquids, while rectangular containers can be used to store dry goods.
Easy portioning
If you are looking for easy portioning, then look for containers with divided sections. These containers will allow you to easily store and organize your ingredients and dishes. Also, make sure that the lids of the container fit snugly and securely to prevent spills.
Price
The price of food storage containers can vary depending on the material and quality. Generally, plastic containers are the most affordable, followed by glass and stainless steel. Ceramic containers tend to be more expensive but they offer a beautiful look and are highly durable.
Best Safest Food Storage Containers Brands
- Pyrex (Pyrex Simply Store 18-Piece set)
Pyrex is a trusted name in kitchenware. Their storage containers are made with tempered glass and come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. Pyrex Simply Store 18-Piece set is one of the bestsellers of this brand.
Pros
- Made of borosilicate glass
- Withstand the high heat, chemicals, and electricity
- Durable with good materials
- Attractive look
- Nontoxic and stain free
Cons
- Can not recycle and be stacked simply
- Easy to break without careful handling
- More expensive than another brand
- Tupperware (Food storage container set with airtight lids)
Although made of safest plastic food containers, Tupperware is a leading brand of food storage containers. They offer a wide range of products, from plastic containers to glass and stainless steel containers.
Their products are made with food-grade, BPA-free materials that are safe for use in the refrigerator, freezer, or microwave. Plus, they have lids that fit securely to keep food fresh and prevent spills.
Pros
- BPA-free materials
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Secure lids for safe storing
- Dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Can be prone to discoloration over time
- The lids may not fit properly after several uses
- Not very attractive in design.
- Can become brittle over time with frequent use.
- Anchor Hocking (Trueseal Glass Food Storage containers)
Anchor Hocking is a well-known kitchenware company that offers a variety of glass and plastic food storage containers. Trueseal Glass Food Storage containers set is the greatest set for containing foods that you should not miss.
Their products are made with BPA-free materials, making them safe for use in the refrigerator, freezer, or microwave. Plus, they come in many different sizes, shapes, and colors to fit your storage needs.
Pros
- BPA-free materials
- Wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors
- Dishwasher safe
- Secure lids that prevent spills
- Stain and odor resistant
Cons
- Glass containers can be prone to breaking
- Not as attractive as other brands in design.
- More expensive than other brands.
- Cleaning can be difficult and time-consuming.
- Rubbermaid (Rubbermaid Takealongs Food Storage Containers)
Rubbermaid is another well-known brand of kitchenware. They offer a wide range of food storage containers that are made with BPA-free materials, making them safe for use in the refrigerator, freezer, or microwave.
Rubbermaid Takealongs Food Storage Containers are perfect for traveling and it is very reasonably priced.
Pros
- BPA-free materials
- Wide range of sizes and shapes
- Secure lids that prevent spills
- Dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Plastic material may become brittle over time with frequent use.
- Not very attractive in design.
- Can be prone to discoloration over time.
- Lock&lock (36 pieces lock and lock easy essentials color mate food storage container)
They offer many different sizes, shapes, and colors that are made with glass material to keep your food safe. Their containers also have secure lids to keep food fresh and prevent spills. Plus, they are easy to clean and maintain.
Pros
- High-quality glass
- Wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors
- Secure lids that prevent spills
- Dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Quite more expensive than other brands.
FAQs about The Safest Food Storage Containers
1. What are safe food containers?
Safe food containers are made with materials that are BPA-free and approved for use in the refrigerator, freezer or microwave. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit your storage needs, plus they have secure lids to keep food fresh and prevent spills.
2. Are plastic food containers safe?
Plastic food containers are generally safe as long as they are BPA-free and approved for use in the refrigerator, freezer, or microwave. However, plastic can become brittle over time with frequent use so it’s important to check the material before buying.
3. Is Pyrex better than Rubbermaid?
It depends on personal preferences. Pyrex containers are made with glass and are generally more expensive than Rubbermaid products, but they may be more attractive in design.
On the other hand, Rubbermaid containers are made with BPA-free materials that are dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe. Both brands offer secure lids to keep food fresh and prevent spills.
4. Which food containers are harmful to people’s health?
Plastic food containers that are not BPA-free can be harmful to people’s health. These types of containers can release chemical compounds into foods and drinks, making them unsafe for consumption. It is important to always check the material before buying any food container.
5. How often should food storage containers be replaced?
It is recommended to replace food storage containers every 1-2 years, depending on how often they are used. Containers that become brittle or discolored over time should be replaced immediately for safety reasons.
Conclusion
It is important to choose the right safest food storage containers to ensure that your food remains safe and fresh. Different materials, sizes, shapes, and colors are available from different brands such as Pyrex, Rubbermaid, and Lock&Lock.
Make sure to read the product labels before buying to determine if the material is BPA-free and approved for use in the refrigerator, freezer, or microwave. Additionally, be sure to replace your food storage containers on time or when they become brittle or discolored over time.
Related:
- What is the Safest Stainless Steel Cookware for your Kitchen?
- The Best Safest Rice Cooker: Buying Guide Tips
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