The Ultimate Guide to the Best Food Storage Containers

Whether you're a home cook or a professional chef, food storage containers are an essential part of any culinary repertoire. They help keep your kitchen clutter-free, extend the shelf life of your food, and make meal prep a breeze. In this guide, you'll learn about the different types of food storage containers, their benefits, and how to pick the best one for your needs.

Why You Need Good Food Storage Containers

Food storage containers are a must-have in any kitchen. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Keep Food Fresh: Proper food storage can greatly extend the shelf life of your food, reducing waste and saving you money in the long run.
2. Organization: Food storage containers can help keep your pantry, fridge, and freezer organized, making it easier to find what you need when you need it.
3. Meal Prep: If you're into meal prepping, food storage containers are invaluable. They allow you to portion out meals and snacks for the week, making healthy eating a breeze.
4. Transporting Food: Whether you're bringing lunch to work or sharing a dish at a potluck, food storage containers make it easy to transport your food safely and conveniently.

Types of Food Storage Containers

Food storage containers come in a variety of materials, each with its own set of pros and cons. Here are some of the most common types:

1. Glass Containers: Glass is a popular choice for food storage because it is non-reactive, which means it won't absorb odors or flavors from your food. It's also microwave-safe and often oven-safe, making it a versatile choice. However, glass containers can be heavy and prone to breaking.
2. Plastic Containers: Plastic containers are lightweight, durable, and often less expensive than glass. They are also typically microwave and dishwasher safe. However, some plastic containers can absorb odors and stains, and they may not last as long as glass.
3. Stoneware Containers: Stoneware containers are aesthetically pleasing and can be used for both storage and serving. They are often microwave and dishwasher safe, but they can be heavier and more fragile than plastic or glass.

Top Food Storage Containers

Based on our research and testing, here are some of the top food storage containers in the market:

1. Pyrex Simply Store 18-Piece Set: This set includes a variety of sizes, all made from durable tempered glass. The colorful lids are easy to match with their corresponding containers.
2. Snapware Total Solution 20-Piece Food Storage Set: This plastic set is leakproof and resistant to stains and odors. It includes a variety of sizes and shapes, making it a versatile choice.
3. Rubbermaid Brilliance 10-Piece Food Storage Containers: This set is made of durable, see-through plastic and includes containers of various sizes. The lids seal tightly, keeping out moisture and humidity.
4. Glasslock 18-Piece Container Set: This set includes a variety of shapes and sizes, all made from durable glass. The lids lock in place to prevent spills, making these containers an excellent choice for meal prep.

Our Favorite Picks

After extensive research and testing, our top pick is the Rubbermaid Brilliance 10-Piece Food Storage Containers. These containers aced all our tests, offering excellent sealability, ease of cleaning, and resistance to stains and odors. For a budget-friendly glass option, we recommend the Glasslock 4-Piece Rectangle Oven Safe Container Set.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Food Storage Container

When choosing a food storage container, consider the following factors:

1. Material: Choose a material that suits your needs. Glass is durable and doesn't absorb odors or flavors, but it can be heavy and breakable. Plastic is lightweight and durable, but it may absorb odors and stains. Stoneware is aesthetically pleasing and versatile, but it can be heavy and fragile.
2. Lid Type: Look for a lid with a good seal to keep your food fresh. Some lids have a snap closure, while others have a rubber or silicone gasket for an airtight seal.
3. Capacity: Consider the sizes of the containers included in the set. If you often cook in large batches, you may need larger containers. If you mostly store small amounts of food, smaller containers may suffice.
4. Ease of Cleaning: Most food storage containers are dishwasher safe, but check the manufacturer's instructions to be sure.

How to Organize Food Storage Containers

To keep your food storage containers organized, consider the following tips:

1. Stack Containers: Choose containers that can be stacked to save space in your cabinet or pantry.
2. Label Containers: Use a label maker or wine bottle pen to note each container's contents. This will make it easier to find what you need.
3. Use Containers with See-Through Lids: This will make it easier to identify the contents of each container at a glance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many food storage containers do I need? The number of containers you need depends on the quantities and varieties of food you need to store. As a rule of thumb, it's better to have bins that are slightly larger than you think you need.
2. How do you clean food storage containers? Most food storage containers are dishwasher safe. However, always check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure your containers can be cleaned in the dishwasher without warping or damaging their seal.

Conclusion

Choosing the right food storage containers can make a big difference in keeping your kitchen organized and your food fresh. With the information provided in this guide, you should be well-equipped to make an informed decision.

References

• The Best Food Storage Containers for 2023
• The Best Food Storage Containers for Every Type of Food
• The Best Food Storage Containers are Practically Unbreakable
• The Best Food Storage Containers for Keeping All Your Leftovers Fresh
• The Best Food Storage Containers to Keep Your Kitchen Organized