Around the world food waste is a serious problem. However, common food storage solutions often include lots of plastic which is an issue unto itself. Luckily today, savvy eco-conscious people have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to food storage choices that won’t end up in a landfill or potentially add unwanted chemicals to your food. A few mindful choices can go a long way in helping to curb food waste and the emissions associated with their production and disposal.
That’s a wrap!
Choosing to use beeswax wraps over plastic wrap is a fantastic decision to store your foodie goodies. They are breathable and can be reused and are often biodegradable. For things like sandwiches they are sturdy and efficient to keep food fresh. You can also wrap things like cheeses and other solids to keep them ticking over for a longer amount of time. Wraps made of things like hemp and resin are also durable and great for long-term use.
Bowled over
When it comes to covering a bowl, look to reusable covers with elastic to keep a good seal atop bowls in your refrigerator. Available in small, medium and larger bowl sizes, all you need to do is simply wash them in between uses and of debris free most you can toss in the washing machine. Want a really affordable solution? Head to the pharmacy and pick up a few elastic shower caps – that will act with the same basic functionality.
You’ve got it in the bag
Storage bags have come a long way since the archaic throw-away Ziplock bags your Mum packed your lunch in as a kiddo. Reusable silicone food bags are airtight, leakproof and have zipper-top for ease of use. Available with many different features, materials, sizes and price points – a good Google search will give you hundreds of options. Just read the reviews to make sure you are getting the best bang for your buck that you will be able to use in the long-term.
Jars are a clear winner
The pioneers had it right with their zero-waste way to store things in jars. Just think about it – jars can be refrigerated, put in the freezer, used for bulk goods in the pantry, taken to the store when grocery shopping; and even used to store trash! Plus many brands come with the lids attached. Can you imagine not having to rummage around in the drawer anymore for a matching plastic container cover? Perfect for taking your lunch to the office, chuck your soup or salad into one of these old school storage solutions without having to worry about leaks onto your laptop during your commute.
Glass containers set you up for storage success
Not only are these an affordable and a great way to store larger food items and leftovers, many are over safe. This means that you can do some weekly food prep over the weekend and pop these in the oven after a long day at the office and have a healthy tasty meal for the whole family in no time. For meals on the go some smaller sets have bamboo lids and cutlery with an adjustable elastic wrap. For the best results choose a version with a silicone seal that will create an airtight seal and keep your food fresh.
Ditch the plastic produce bags
Reusable produce bags and linen bread bags are not only more user-friendly (no more fiddling in the store trying to open plastic ones on the roll) but since most are made of cotton, polyester or even cotton most are machine-washable. There are organic materials available in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials, patterns and more. Many enterprising craftspeople often sell locally made ones at farmers markets stalls.
Give your food a hug
Food Huggers brand containers are a cornerstone of any zero waste kitchen because of their flexibility, versatility and functionality. Much loved fruit and vege like apples and avocados that are often only half-eaten can be covered with one of these clever contraptions and saved for later.