Choosing the right food storage containers is crucial to your health. Look for sustainable, reusable options and BPA-free. These containers are non-porous, don’t turn faint shades of red post-tomato sauce, and come with tight locking lids for a secure seal. They also make reheating leftovers a breeze.
Keep the Lid Closed
Food storage containers are essential for storing leftovers or a batch of homemade sauce. When used properly, they can help prevent foodborne illnesses caused by microorganisms like salmonella and E coli or botulinum, which can be spread through improperly stored foods. But when choosing food storage containers, not all are created equal. Some plastic containers can leach harmful chemicals into your food that may harm your health. To avoid this, choose glass or reusable plastic jars that are BPA-free. Also, look for microwave-safe containers if you’re heating your food. And consider sets that include containers and lids in various sizes to save space in your fridge or pantry. This way, you can grab a container at-a-glance without fumbling around for the matching lid. Plus, this method makes organizing your containers easier and keeps them from mixing up.
Keep the Jar Dry
When storing food in plastic containers, it is essential to dry the container. This helps to prevent the growth of unwanted bacteria and fungi. It also helps to keep the stored food fresh for longer. Avoid storing food in bottles that contain greasy foods or liquids, such as mayonnaise or peanut butter. These bottles will likely be tainted with oils that can cause mold and other problems. It is best to use bottles made of PETE (polyethylene terephthalate) with lids that screw on tightly, creating an air-tight seal. You can find these types of bottles at stores that sell canning supplies. You should also avoid using plastics labeled as microwave-safe, as heating them can lead to the transfer of chemicals into your food. This is especially true for containers made of polyvinyl chloride, which contains plastic softeners linked to estrogen-mimicking chemicals that can affect hormone systems.
Keep the Jar Clean
The plastic containers we store our food in the refrigerator or take on the go are often made from materials that can leach toxic chemicals into our food. The best way to avoid these unwanted contaminants is to choose glass or ceramic storage containers that are non-toxic and easily cleaned. These reusable food storage containers are safe, easy to clean, and can be recycled over time. When choosing a container, be sure to check the label. The number printed on the bottom of a plastic container will tell you what type of material it is made from. The numbers 2, 4, and 5 indicate that the container is safe for food storage, while those with #1 on them are single-use containers that should be recycled or destroyed. As an extra precaution, never store foods in a plastic container previously used to hold cleaning products or other non-food items. Doing so can trigger a chemical reaction that releases harmful chemicals into the food.
Label the Jars
Harmful microorganisms can grow in foods that are past their best-before dates. Properly storing your leftovers and pantry items can prevent them from growing and ensure you get the most out of your ingredients. Plastic containers are labeled with identification codes to help consumers determine their suitability for food use. The code is a tiny triangle with a number in the middle, identifying the type of resin the container is made from. The safest food storage choices are polyethylene and polypropylene, labeled with codes 1 and 2. Plastics with codes 3, 6, and 7 may contain chemicals that can leach into your food. Clear plastic containers allow for accessible inventory and labeling. Customization options include silk screening, pad printing, and other add-ons to make your jars stand out on store shelves. Stacking and organizing your containers into smaller groupings helps you quickly find the ones you need.How to Properly Store Your Food in Plastic Jars for Maximum Freshness
