Plastic storage containers have become a staple in many kitchens but are notoriously tricky to organize. So much so that the ‘dreaded container cabinet’ has become somewhat of a joke, but there is a more worrying problem at hand: they're toxic.
If your food storage containers are leftover takeaway boxes or otherwise made from plastic, there's a risk they're made from toxic chemicals and microplastics that contaminate food with every use.
That’s why I've swapped to glass food storage, and I wish I had made the change to this non-toxic home essential sooner.
Why you need to switch to glass food storage
This glass food storage set is made from borosilicate glass, meaning it is oven safe up to 520° Fahrenheit, dishwasher and microwave safe, and completely non-toxic. Complete with bamboo lids, this set will help eliminate plastic from your kitchen.
Of all the household items I stopped buying for a less toxic home, cutting out plastic food containers has made one of the biggest differences – and for six key reasons.
1. They reduce toxins
Plastic is one of the many types of storage you should never use in a pantry due to the toxins.
Tracee Yablon-Brenner, outpatient integrative dietician project coordinator at Holy Name Medical Center explains, ‘There is emerging research that the chemicals in plastics are known to disrupt hormones, cause developmental issues, are associated with thyroid gland abnormalities, hyperactivity of the thyroid gland and may increase cancer risk. The plastics can leach out when hot foods are put in the containers or if plastic water bottles are stored in the heat.
‘There are two main plastics you want to watch out for in storage:
- BPA and BPS: Common in water bottles and plastic containers. These endocrine disruptors can penetrate into food and beverages.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Found in food packaging such as salad dressing containers, foil, plastic cups, trays and lids shower curtains, and vinyl flooring. PVC Releases dangerous chemicals especially when heated such as phthalates and dioxins.’
Glass, on the other hand, is free from these chemicals, making it a far healthier option for the kitchen.
These deep round glass storage bowls are perfect for lunch-prep for meals on the go. They are dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe.
These glass food containers come with air-tight locking lids to prevent leaks and spills. The lids themselves are plastic, however, so remove them before microwaving food to prevent chemical contamination.
Dishwasher, oven (up to 450 degrees F), and microwave safe, these 100% leakproof food containers are odor and stain resistant. They are are also space saving, with a modular design for perfect organization and stacking in your fridge or cabinet.
2. My food stays fresher
So far as food storage to reduce food waste goes, glass is one of the best. I have noticed that using glass storage, especially when organizing a refrigerator, has kept my food tasting fresher for longer. This is because glass is non-porous, meaning it does not absorb odors, flavors, or bacteria, making it a simple food storage trick to extend the life of your groceries.
As a bonus, because glass is fully transparent, I can see everything in my fridge in one glance, so I am at less risk of forgetting food and leaving it to expire.
This glass fridge crisper comes with a silicone lid. Food grade silicone is generally considered non toxic.
3. They are easier to clean
Because they are non-porous, glass storage is also far easier to clean than plastic food containers – meaning I no longer have to spend time scrubbing to remove food stains when washing dishes by hand.
This is especially useful for people who have the best dishwashers. While many plastic food containers aren’t on the list of things you shouldn’t put in a dishwasher, they need to be stacked carefully to prevent damage and warping. You don’t have to worry about this with glass storage, making cleaning a kitchen after dinner quicker and easier.
It isn't only your plastic storage you should consider swapping out. Your plastic kitchen utensils can be just as damaging. Wood, on the other hand, is BPA-free, and doesn't risk scratching your cookware. Hand wash to retain their natural oils.
Stainless steel pans do not have toxic non-stick coatings that peel off and contaminate food, making them a safer choice for cooking. Plus, they are dishwasher safe, making post dinner clean up simple.
Approved by the EWG, the Attitude dish soap is free from harsh chemicals, preventing chemical residue on dishes and protecting your skin from damage when washing up by hand.
4. They are easier to store
Organizing plastic containers is a hassle at the best of times. Because they are so lightweight and flimsy, they fall over easily, making a mess of kitchen cabinets and drawers.
Glass food containers, on the other hand, are much heavier. They sit in place in my kitchen storage, making kitchen organization far quicker and easier.
The only downside is that they are generally larger than plastic food containers. While this means they hold more food, they do not stack as tightly as their plastic counterparts, meaning they take up a little more space when organizing kitchen drawers. As the only downside I have encountered, however, I am prepared to forgive them.
I tested out the Umbra Peggy Organizer and loved how versatile it was. The customizable peg board style means you can create the perfect size slots to keep everything from pans to lids to storage containers penned in and tidy, so nothing is sliding around drawers and cabinets.
5. They look nicer
There is no denying that glass food storage looks nicer than grubby plastic, making them a great aesthetic organizing trick to make a kitchen look more expensive.
And, as they are easier to clean and non-porous, they stay looking neat for longer than plastic, and do not discolor, making the investment continue to pay off.
6. They are more durable
As someone who is always looking for smart ways to save money at home, the durability of glass storage containers is a definite win for me.
Plastic containers (especially those that I repurposed after ordering takeout food) broke very easily and warped when heated up, meaning the lids would never fit properly after a few uses.
While glass does risk shattering if you drop it, with careful handling, they are far more durable than plastic, helping you reduce waste.
Bamboo lids are BPA-free, to help you completely eliminate plastic from your food storage.
Meet the expert
FAQs
What are the disadvantages of glass containers?
For all their pros, there are a few disadvantages to glass containers. Most notably, they are more expensive than plastic, however, given the health benefits, durability and the fact food stays fresher longer, it is an investment I deem worth the outlay.
It's worth noting that glass storage is heavier than plastic, which may prove problematic for people with weakened grip. This would be something to weigh up on an individual basis before deciding to make the swap.
Are the plastic lids on glass containers safe?
Glass containers can come with a variety of lids, such as bamboo, wood, or plastic. The plastic lids can leach dangerous chemicals into food, especially if they are heated up, so remove the lid before microwaving, and store food so that the lid does not touch it when fully sealed to mitigate risk. Many glass containers come with BPA-free plastic so do check product descriptions to check the components. If it doesn't say BPA-free, then it's worth giving the listing a miss for the lack of clarity.
Your food storage is not the only toxin risk in your kitchen. It is worth reading up on our guide to the best non-toxic kitchen appliances, too, to truly mitigate any risk.
