9 Best Non Toxic Food Storage Containers: A Buying Guide for Health-Conscious Moms

ByJerica

If you are anything like me, you spend 90% of your time thinking about ways that you can make adjustments in your daily life that will benefit both the health, and efficiency of your family. By efficiency I am talking about convenience and cost. 

This usually starts with looking at what we are feeding ourselves and our families, but we also need to think about the containers that we are using to store our food in, and how they can be just as important as that food itself. 

The harm that plastic use can have on both our health and environment has become one of the leading topics in today’s current events. We are surrounded by single-use plastics. Times are tough, and we are trying to pinch pennies wherever we can. So, we re-use that single use plastic a time or two.  

The scary part is that research is only just breaking the surface of how much damage is and can be done. My opinion? Let’s just avoid it completely as best as we can!

 Obviously in today’s world, it is next to impossible to avoid plastics all together but there are convenient and even cost-effective safer options to single-use containers.

I am here to provide you with 9 of the best non toxic food storage containers suggestions that are not only safe for your food and the environment but save you money as well!

1. Repurposed Glass Jars and Containers

Cleaning and reusing glass jars and containers is always my go to! I am SO frugal! Re-use and re-purpose is my jam! (as long as it’s not detrimental to the health of myself or my family that is) 

Glass containers are durable, reusable, and sanitizable! (is that even a word?) They come in so many different sizes. Juices, sauces, spices, there are so many grocery items that we purchase on the daily that are already stored in glass jars and containers that we can re purpose into our own reusable glass storage containers! 

The most common and most obvious, Pasta sauces! 

Anytime I use food items that come in glass, when they are empty, I toss them in the sink with some soap and warm water, soak off the label, and voila! A brand-new glass container to store food! 

Benefits

  • Non-Toxic: Glass does not contain harmful chemicals and does not leach toxins into your food! This means that you don’t have to question whether your food is safe for consumption!
  • Versatile: They can be used to store a wide variety of food, from dry goods to liquids, and then can be heated in a microwave or oven. Convenient!
  • Durable: Unlike plastic, glass containers don’t wear down. They don’t disform when heated, and they last for years and years! The best choice for sustainable options!

2. Stainless Steel Containers

Stainless steel has become a staple in kitchens in recent years. In the days of meal prep tutorials, school lunch packing videos, and water Tok, stainless steel has even become the preference! 

While obviously a little more costly than other plastic alternatives, the health benefits and durability of stainless-steel food storage containers make them the better choice for sure!

Advantages

  • Durable: Stainless steel is known for its ability to withstand heavy use and the test of time.
  • Non-Leaching: It doesn’t react with acidic foods or beverages!
  • Lightweight: It’s the best of both worlds! Strong like glass, but lightweight for everyday use!

Popular Choices

  • U Konserve Divided Rectangle Container: Great for storing and dividing portions, this container is a favorite among health-conscious parents.
  • LunchBots Trio Stainless Steel Food Container: Featuring a handy partition, this container makes it easy to pack healthy meals on the go.

3. Silicone Containers

Silicone food storage containers are a relative newcomer to the mix but are quickly gaining popularity due to their flexibility and durability. Here’s why silicone might be the right fit for you:

Features

  • Non-Toxic: Silicone is free from toxic chemicals and is safe for use with food and drink.
  • Microwave-Safe: They can withstand heat, which makes them great for quick meals or food warming.
  • Easy to Clean: They don’t retain odors or stains and are dishwasher safe.

Recommended Brands

  • Stasher Silicone Food Bag: This versatile bag is perfect for storage and sous vide, and it’s available in various sizes and designs.
  • Ecolunchbox Seal Cup Leak Proof Stainless Steel and Silicone Lid Containers: A combination of stainless steel and silicone for a secure and eco-friendly meal storage solution.

4. Bamboo Containers

Bamboo containers are an eco-friendly option that is as safe for the environment as it is for your family. 

Here’s why they are a great choice:

  • Renewable Material: Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource that grows without using herbicides or pesticides.
  • Biodegradable Natural Materials: At the end of their life cycle, they break down quickly, leaving minimal environmental footprint. You can even throw them in your compost!
  • Elegant Design: They add a natural, calming look to your kitchen, and are free from any harmful chemicals.

Considerations

  • Handwash Only: To ensure the longevity of the bamboo, these containers usually need to be hand washed.
  • Re-Sealing Periodically: The natural fibers can expand and contract with temperatures, so the lids may need re-sealing over time.

5. Ceramic Containers

When it comes to charm and elegance, ceramic containers are hard to beat. They serve as both functional food storage and attractive kitchen decor. Here’s why they’re a mom’s best friend:

  • Leadless Glaze: Modern ceramics are made without lead, making them safe for use in food storage.
  • Retains Freshness: The cool and moisture resistant nature of ceramic helps to keep food fresh longer.
  • Oven-to-Table Versatility: Perfect for cooking and serving food at the table, which takes minimal time for cleanup.

Stylish Options

  • Le Creuset Stoneware Canisters: These beautifully crafted canisters come in a range of sizes and colors to suit any kitchen aesthetic.

6. Mason Jars

Mason jars are a classic for a reason: they’re inexpensive, airtight, and endlessly versatile! 

You can sanitize glass mason jars and use them over and over again. Makes them the safest food storage containers by far, and the most cost effective which is my favorite part!

Benefits to Mason Jars

  • Variety of sizes: They come in so many sizes! You can use them to store anything from tomato sauce to salad! 
  • Extend the life of fresh foods: They keep fruit fresher longer when stored in the jars in the fridge because of their airtight lids!
  • Easy cleaning: Mason jars are dishwasher safe, and you can boil them. This gives you the peace of mind of knowing that the high temperatures ensure sanitization!
  • Preserve and serve!: You can use mason jars for food preservation and serve those foods right out of their jars! 

7. Beeswax Wraps

Beeswax wraps are an eco-friendly, malleable reusable food wraps alternative to aluminum foil. 

They are an excellent way to cover bowls or store produce and cheese!

Best part to bees wrap:

  • Reusable: With proper care, a beeswax wrap can be used for up to a year!
  • Customizable: The warmth of your hands allows the wraps to mold and hold around any item you need to store.
  • Natural Anti-Bacterial Properties: Beeswax, jojoba oil, and tree resin are utilized to create a protective surface against foodborne contaminants.

8. Cloth Bags

Ideal for storing certain types of food, cloth bags are breathable, so they are a great way to store root vegetables, bread, or bulk items without trapping moisture:

​Some examples:

  • Cotton Mesh Produce Bags: Perfect for the grocery store or farmer’s market and storing produce in your fridge due to the breathability of organic cotton.
  • Linen Bread Bags: These are wide enough to store a loaf of bread and tall enough to cover it, ensuring proper air circulation.

9. Eco-Friendly Containers

If sustainability is a strong value for you, invest in containers that not only store your food safely but also align with your environmental goals:

Sustainable Options

  • Made From Recycled Materials: Look for containers made from post-consumer recycled content.
  • Recyclable at End-of-Life: The best eco-friendly containers are those that can be easily recycled when they’ve served their purpose.

By understanding the features and benefits of each type of non-toxic food storage container, you are equipped to make informed choices for healthier cost-effective food storage.

Remember to prioritize your family’s well-being and the sustainability of the products you choose to bring into your home and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your food is stored safely, you are saving money, and helping the earth!