Top-Notch Meal Prep Containers Maintaining Our Takeout-Free Food Choices
Preparing meals in advance can help reduce the need for buying takeout or eating out at work. There are various methods for meal prepping, including storing portions of home-cooked meals or keeping individual ingredients on hand until ready to assemble a dish. Regardless of the chosen approach, having a robust set of meal prep containers is essential for maintaining food freshness until consumption.
We've examined numerous meal prep containers--ranging from ceramic storage sets to sleek salad bowls and spacious lunch boxes. These containers cater to different needs, helping users store leftovers, pack work lunches, and keep their refrigerators organized. This selection ensures there's an option suitable for every kitchen.
Top Picks
- Best Glass: Caraway Food Storage + Minis Set
- Best Bowl: W&P Porter Seal Tight Glass Bowl
- Best Plastic: OXO Good Grips Prep & Go Leakproof Containers
- Best for Big Families: Brilliance Airtight Food Storage Containers
- Best for Salad: S'well Salad Bowl Kit
- Best Bags: Stasher Starter Pack
- Best for Temperature Control: Hydroflask Insulated Food Jar
- Best for Lunch: Bentgo Modern Lunch Box
Key Factors to Consider
When evaluating meal prep containers, several factors should be considered:
Material: Durable options like glass, plastic, and stainless steel are popular. However, eco-friendly alternatives, such as bamboo or bagasse, may offer environmental benefits, albeit at a higher cost.
Size and Compartments: Choose containers based on the desired meal portions and, if necessary, opt for containers with compartments for portion control and separating food types.
Microwave, Freezer, and Oven Compatibility: Opt for containers suitable for microwave, freezer, and oven use to enhance versatility and convenience.
Durability and Longevity: Durable containers can last longer and maintain their appearance, reducing the need for frequent replacement.
Leakproof and Airtight Seals: Containers with secure, airtight lids help prevent leaks and preserve freshness, particularly for transporting meals or storing liquids.
Ease of Cleaning: Prioritize containers that are dishwasher-safe for increased convenience and ease of cleaning.
Price: Balance between cost and quality, considering the environmental impact of disposable containers.
How We Tested the Best Meal Prep Containers
For multiple weeks, we used these containers to store leftovers, prep ingredients, and bring lunches to work. By adhering to cleaning instructions, evaluating performance, and noting any areas of improvement, we gained valuable insights into the qualities and nuances of each container, allowing us to recommend the top options.
For a balanced and hassle-free meal prepping experience, consider investing in one or more meal prep containers from our top picks, carefully considering the factors listed above to ensure a successful choice.
- Preparing meals in advance, using containers like the Best Glass Caraway Food Storage + Minis Set, can help minimize takeout and work meals by storing home-cooked leftovers.
- Choosing durable meal prep containers, such as the Best Bowl W&P Porter Seal Tight Glass Bowl, ensures longevity and maintains food freshness until consumption.
- Eco-friendly alternatives, like the Best Plastic OXO Good Grips Prep & Go Leakproof Containers, offer an environmentally-friendly option for meal prepping.
- Look for containers with compartments, like the Best for Big Families Brilliance Airtight Food Storage Containers, to aid in portion control and separating food types.
- For thriving health and wellness, use microwave, freezer, and oven-compatible containers, such as the Best for Salad S'well Salad Bowl Kit, for meal prepping and cooking.
- Maintaining a disciplined fitness and exercise routine often requires a balanced lifestyle, including proper nutrition in meals prepped using temperature-controlled containers, such as the Best for Temperature Control Hydroflask Insulated Food Jar.
- Invest in a versatile Bentgo Modern Lunch Box, suitable for lifestyle, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, and nutrition, to enjoy a convenient and hassle-free meal prep experience.
