Food storage containers are pretty self-explanatory. They are containers that help store any food you have, whether it be leftovers, meal prep, or other fresh food. Many are compatible with both wet and dry foods. Most households most likely have a combination of store-bought storage containers and carry-out containers that they just reuse for saving leftovers. However, what you maybe do not realize is that those low-quality storage containers are filled with toxic chemicals that are seeping into your food. Unless you are doing the research and doing your best to get yourself the best food storage containers, you will be stuck dealing with a lot of issues and concerns when it comes to your food. These regular containers are not just filled with chemicals, but they do not even do their job well in any way.

If you are using a regular plastic food container, there are a few things you will probably have to worry about in the near future. Many of these regular plastic containers are not microwave safe—even though they may say so—and the Chinese take-out containers definitely are not. So if you often use them in the microwave to heat up your leftovers, which you absolutely should not do, you will have to deal with microwave degeneration. Most plastic food containers are not formulated to withstand the effects of being heated in a microwave. Due to the intense and focused heat, the plastic container can warp or even melt. And in the process, it can also release tons of chemicals into your food.

Another thing that the best food storage containers do not have to deal with is BPA, or Bisphenol A. You have probably heard of this stuff before. It is a common issue when buying plastic water bottles. This is a chemical that is often found in plastics. However, many companies have started avoiding the use of it due to the studies that have shown how harmful it can be. This chemical can result in numerous health risks, and children and infants are especially susceptible to trace amounts of the chemical.  

In addition to BPA, there are various kinds of bacteria that plastic food containers can harbor. Due to the design of certain containers, cleaning them properly may be a bit difficult. And if they are not cleaned entirely, the small particles of food left over can turn into a breeding ground for bacteria, which then get introduced to your food.

The best food storage containers are free of any and all chemicals, as well as typically being microwave safe and easy to clean. So, while buying the cheap ones in bulk may sound like the cheaper idea, you may be paying for it more in the long run.

Types of Food Storage Containers

The best food storage containers can come in various different shapes and sizes within a set, and each set can be made from different materials. Of course, each has their own advantages and disadvantages, so the final choice is up to you. Hey, we can't do all the work for you. Typically, food packaging includes a wide array of materials, like plastic, metal, glass, even paper, which are processed and formed. Some containers will have subcategories, like plastic can either be rigid or flexible. Others will be microwave safe, others airtight, some can even be made for specific food types like liquid, poultry, and more.

Glass

Glass food containers are probably among the best food storage containers available. Their features and lack of chemicals make them perfect for preserving and storing food to keep it fresh. These containers are also typically microwave safe and have become the standard container choice as they cannot transmit dangerous chemicals to foods. Not to mention they can be reused nearly forever. Glass is also commonly used for storing liquid, as it is transparent and allows to display the content. In addition, unless the glass is cracked, there is no chance of spillage, as they are very durable. Glass containers are perfect for refrigeration as well, as the glass is not easily affected by cold or heat. In fact, some glass food storage containers are even freezer safe for the long-term storage of your food.

In terms of preserving the freshness of the food, glass containers can effectively prevent odor and moisture buildup, keeping your food as fresh as it was when you put it in. More or less. These containers are also incredibly convenient. Unlike plastic, which can crumple under too much weight, glass can be stacked and placed under far heavier objects without worry. This makes these containers perfect for long-term storage. However, glass containers tend to be a bit more expensive. But it is definitely worth it in the long run.

Metal

This is a common material, specifically stainless steel, for the best food storage containers as well. These have many of the same advantages that glass has but with a few exceptions. While metal is easy to clean and does not contain any chemicals, you cannot microwave this material. For obvious reasons. Beyond that one shortcoming, various types of metal can be effective as food storage containers. Aluminum is effective at keeping odor as a minimum, as well as moisture. However, metal containers do not retain heat, which may bring the preservation level down a bit.

Plastic

This material is the most common. You will find plastic food containers everywhere in grocery stores. These are good for both solid and liquid storage, however you just have to be cautious about the seal quality. There are also different styles that plastic containers can come in, rigid and semi-rigid. Rigid containers retain their shape and can hold a variety of solid foods. Semi-rigid containers are typically suited for dry foods and some liquid foods.

When it comes to what kind of plastic is used, there are a few different options. The three most popular types are polyethylene, polyester, and polypropylene. Polyethylene is far more flexible than the other two variations, but not a durable as polypropylene.

The biggest issue that plastic has, which I mentioned before, is that you have to be sure that there are no toxic chemicals like BPA. Look for the seal on the container that says it is BPA free plastic. That is the only way to know for use if the container is free of it. In addition, it is recommended that you do not microwave any plastic container, regardless if it says it is microwave safe or not. Just don't do it.

Paper

If you want to go truly eco-friendly, paper is the way to go. These, while they may not seem ideal, are designed to be leak proof and retain heat very well. The reason they are so eco-friendly is because they are biodegradable and compostable. Paper food containers are typically made from cellulose paper fiber, which makes them rather durable. However, while these are very environmentally friendly, they do not tend to be reusable. The paper is easily stained, even by dry food, and cannot be washed. Therefore, your only options are to recycle them or compost them after they are used.