A lot of people use plastic storage containers to meal prep and store leftovers. However, did you know glass containers are better for you and the environment?
Unlike glass or stainless steel food containers, plastic ones may leach poisonous chemicals into your food. With glass containers, you do not have to wait for your food to cool before putting your leftovers in them. Plus, not all plastic containers are microwave-safe. When glass is recycled, it can be regenerated into more glass, but plastic food containers may or may not be recyclable depending on where you live. Stainless steel containers may be more convenient when you’re packing for on the go meals and don’t want to risk glass breaking. Plus, they are usually 100% recyclable.
In addition to glass and steel food containers, here are a few ways to reduce your plastic use when it comes to meals:
- Reusable Cutlery: The energy and water needed to wash reusable cutlery is more sustainable than single-use items, making them a more sustainable option.
- Reusable Straws: In addition to saving the turtles, reusable straws help reduce waste in landfills and the amount of CO2 produced as a byproduct of making single-use straws.
- Bee’s Wrap: This innovative invention allows you to mold beeswax into various forms and use it as an alternative to plastic wrap, plastic sandwich bags, and more.
- Reusable Lunch Bag: This alternative to paper bags helps reduce waste and keeps your food from leaking during transportation.
Written by Emily Su, Class of 2022.
Photo Credit: Kickstarter