Meal Prep Containers Guide
Why use meal prep containers?
There are several advantages to using meal prep containers, including:
- Save money
- Eat healthier
- Lose weight
- Save time
- Easy transport
How many meal prep containers do I need?
People often ask how many meal prep containers to buy. Of course, this is largely going to depend on how many people you are meal prepping for and how many meals per week you are trying to prep.
If you are a single person just starting to meal prep, I would purchase a four or six set of meal prep containers. With four you could prep most of your lunches for the week, six would allow you to do that and a few dinners. Once you get into the swing of things, you could invest in a larger meal prep container set so you can prep more meals and save more money!
Glass Meal Prep Containers vs Plastic Meal Prep Containers
Which is better: glass meal prep containers or plastic meal prep containers?
The truth is, there are pros and cons to each type of meal prep container. It may come down to your personal needs and preference.
Advantages of glass meal prep containers:
- Lasts longer
- Safer
- Can be reheated in the oven
- Less likely to stain/absorb odors
Advantages of plastic meal prep containers:
- Cheaper
- Lightweight
- Easily disposable
We mostly use glass because we reheat a lot of our foods in the oven, it will save us money in the long run, and I try to reduce the amount of plastic in our lives where I can.
Plastics are classified by which raw materials they are made from. There are seven categories of plastic and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says that you should only be using plastics 1, 2, 4, or 5 for food use.
Most plastic storage containers you come across are made from #4 or #5, but be aware that a lot of Tupperware is made from plastic #7.
If you decide to go plastic, make sure that the meal prep containers are BPA free and classified as a 1, 2, 4 or 5. You can find this code imprinted in a small triangle on the bottom of all plastic containers.
Meal Prep Container FAQs
Are meal prep containers reusable?
Yes, meal prep containers are reusable. Glass ones will last longer than plastic.
Can you freeze meal prep containers?
Yes, you can freeze meal prep containers. There are even meal prep containers made especially for freezing that will help your food stay fresher longer and keep the freezer burn at bay.
Can you microwave meal prep containers?
Yes, meal prep containers can be microwaved. If you are microwaving in a plastic meal prep container, you probably want to make sure that it is BPA free.
Where to buy meal prep containers?
I buy most of my meal prep containers from Amazon (where I do must of my shopping!). You can also usually find them at Target & Walmart.
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