Storing food without plastic can be a great way to reduce your environmental footprint and promote sustainable living. We have several reasons to look for alternatives to plastic wrap and plastic storage containers. For starters, we know that plastic is damaging our environment, especially our oceans, soil, and drinking water supply. One way to cut back on that production is to shift demand by using other types of storage options. Another reason to move away from plastic storage is because of health concerns. We have been warned about plastic for years because chemicals like BPA and phthalates, which are considered to be endocrine disruptors, can seep into our food. Here are a few tips on how to store food without plastic:
- Use glass containers: Glass containers are a great alternative to plastic containers as they are reusable, recyclable, and do not leach harmful chemicals into your food. They’re great for storing anything and everything – soups, broths, salad dressings, grains, juices, herbs and spices, nuts and seeds. They’re also a good choice for storing chopped veggies you’ve prepped in advance for the week.
- Invest in beeswax wraps: Beeswax wraps are a natural alternative to plastic wrap. They are reusable, biodegradable, and made from natural materials. Similar to plastic wrap, you can use beeswax wraps to cover foods like half-cut fruit or vegetables, put them over bowls for storage, or make pockets with them to carry snacks, sandwiches and baked goods. Beeswax wraps are very moldable, so you can just warm them with your hands to help them adhere around a bowl or your food.
- Try silicone bags: Silicone bags are a great alternative to plastic bags and can be used to store food in the fridge or freezer. They are reusable, durable and can be put in the dishwasher for easy cleaning.
- Use cloth produce bags: When shopping for fruits and vegetables, bring your own cloth produce bags instead of using the plastic ones provided at the store.
- Store in the pantry: Some foods like potatoes, onions, and garlic do not require refrigeration, so consider storing them in a cool, dry place like a pantry or cupboard.
- Make your own food: Whenever possible, make your own food from scratch and store it in reusable containers.
By implementing these tips, you can reduce your reliance on plastic and store your food in a more sustainable way. Remember that small changes add up, and every little bit helps in the fight against plastic pollution.