Meal prepping has become a cornerstone of modern healthy living, helping individuals save time, manage their budgets, and maintain a balanced diet. By preparing meals in advance, you can avoid the temptation of unhealthy fast food and ensure you always have a nutritious option readily available. However, the success of your meal prepping efforts hinges on one crucial factor: choosing the right containers.

The market offers a wide array of meal prep containers, each with its own set of features, materials, and benefits. From glass to plastic to stainless steel, and from single-compartment to multi-compartment designs, the options can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider when selecting meal prep containers and provide our top recommendations to help you make the best choice for your needs. Let’s dive in!

Factors to Consider When Choosing Meal Prep Containers

Choosing the right meal prep containers is essential for keeping your food fresh, organized, and easy to transport. Several factors come into play when making your selection. Here’s a detailed look at what to consider:

  • Material (glass vs. plastic vs. stainless steel): The material of your meal prep container significantly impacts its safety, durability, and versatility.

    • Glass: Glass containers are non-toxic, easy to clean, and often oven-safe, making them ideal for reheating meals. However, they can be heavier and more prone to breakage than plastic.
    • Plastic: Plastic containers are lightweight, durable, and generally more affordable. Look for BPA-free options to avoid harmful chemicals. Some plastic containers are microwave-safe, but it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s instructions.
    • Stainless Steel: Stainless steel containers are durable, non-toxic, and resistant to stains and odors. However, they are not microwave-safe and can be more expensive than plastic.

  • Size and shape: Selecting the right size and shape is crucial for portion control and efficient storage.

    • Consider your typical meal sizes and choose containers that accommodate them without excessive empty space.
    • Rectangular or square containers often stack more efficiently in the fridge and pantry than round ones.

  • Compartments: The choice between single and multiple compartments depends on the types of meals you typically prepare.

    • Single-compartment containers are ideal for casseroles, stews, and other dishes where the ingredients are mixed.
    • Multi-compartment containers are perfect for keeping different food items separate, such as salads with dressing, or meals with distinct sides.

  • Lids and sealing: Airtight and leak-proof lids are essential for preventing spills and keeping food fresh.

    • Look for containers with secure locking mechanisms or tight-fitting seals to ensure your food stays contained during transport.
    • Check reviews to see if other users have experienced any issues with leaking.

  • Ease of cleaning: Dishwasher-safe containers can save you significant time and effort in the kitchen.

    • Make sure both the container and the lid are dishwasher-safe before purchasing.
    • Consider containers with smooth surfaces and rounded corners, which are easier to clean by hand.

  • Stackability: Stackable containers can maximize space in your fridge and pantry.

    • Look for containers with flat lids that allow them to be stacked neatly on top of each other.
    • Some containers are designed to nest inside each other when empty, saving even more space.

  • Freezer-safe: If you plan to freeze meals for longer-term storage, freezer-safe containers are a must.

    • Ensure the containers are made of materials that can withstand freezing temperatures without cracking or becoming brittle.
    • Leave some headspace in the container to allow for expansion as the food freezes.

Top Meal Prep Container Recommendations: Glass

Glass meal prep containers offer a range of benefits that make them a popular choice for health-conscious individuals. They are non-toxic, easy to clean, and often oven-safe, allowing for convenient reheating. Here are some of our top glass container recommendations:

  • Benefits of Glass Containers:

    • Non-toxic: Glass is inert and doesn’t leach harmful chemicals into your food, even when heated.
    • Easy to clean: Glass containers are typically dishwasher-safe and resistant to stains and odors.
    • Oven-safe: Many glass containers can be used in the oven, making them ideal for baking and reheating.

  • Recommended Brands and Models:

    • Pyrex: Pyrex is a well-known and trusted brand that offers a variety of glass containers in different sizes and shapes. Their containers are durable, oven-safe, and dishwasher-safe.
    • Weck: Weck jars are a stylish and functional option for meal prepping. They feature a classic design with glass lids and rubber gaskets, providing an airtight seal.
    • Caraway: Caraway offers high-quality ceramic-coated glass containers with unique air release technology. The lids fit tightly and help keep oxygen away from foods.
    • Real Food Dietitians’ Favorite 30-Ounce Rectangular Containers: These containers are made from heavy-duty borosilicate glass and come with locking lids. They are microwave-, dishwasher-, freezer-safe, and even oven-safe.

  • Features and Benefits:

    • Pyrex: Durable, oven-safe, dishwasher-safe, available in various sizes and shapes.
    • Weck: Airtight seal, stylish design, stackable, available in various sizes.
    • Caraway: Airtight lids with air release technology, ceramic-coated glass, includes magnetic storage rack.
    • Real Food Dietitians’ Favorite: Heavy-duty borosilicate glass, locking lids, microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, freezer-safe, oven-safe.

  • Appropriate Uses:

    • Casseroles: Glass containers are perfect for baking and storing casseroles.
    • Stews: Their non-reactive nature makes them ideal for storing acidic stews.
    • Salads: Glass containers keep salads fresh and prevent wilting.
    • Egg Roll in a Bowl: The 30-ounce rectangular containers are perfect for this meal.
    • Stir-fry noodles: The 30-ounce rectangular containers are also perfect for this meal.

Top Meal Prep Container Recommendations: Plastic

Plastic meal prep containers offer the advantages of being lightweight, durable, and often more affordable than glass. However, it’s essential to choose BPA-free options and be mindful of reheating practices. Here are some of our top plastic container recommendations:

  • Benefits of Plastic Containers:

    • Lightweight: Plastic containers are easy to carry, making them ideal for packed lunches and on-the-go meals.
    • Durable: Plastic is less prone to breakage than glass, making it a good choice for active individuals.
    • Affordable: Plastic containers are generally more budget-friendly than glass or stainless steel.

  • Recommended Brands and Models:

    • Rubbermaid Brilliance: Rubbermaid Brilliance containers are known for their leak-proof design, stain-proof construction, and crystal-clear appearance.
    • Bentgo: Bentgo offers a variety of stylish and functional bento-style containers with multiple compartments, perfect for portion control and keeping different food items separate.

  • Features and Benefits:

    • Rubbermaid Brilliance: Leak-proof, stain-proof, crystal-clear, microwave-safe with vents, dishwasher-safe.
    • Bentgo: Bento-style design, multiple compartments, portion control, durable, BPA-free.

  • Concerns about Reheating in Plastic:

    • Some plastics can leach chemicals into food when heated.
    • Always choose BPA-free plastic containers to minimize this risk.
    • Consider transferring food to a glass or ceramic dish before reheating in the microwave.

  • Appropriate Uses:

    • Packed lunches: Plastic containers are ideal for packing lunches for school or work.
    • Snacks: Their lightweight design makes them perfect for carrying snacks on the go.
    • Salads with dressing compartment: Bentgo containers are great for keeping salad ingredients separate until mealtime.

Top Meal Prep Container Recommendations: Specialty Containers

In addition to standard glass and plastic containers, several specialty containers are designed for specific meal prepping needs. These containers can help you optimize your meal prep process and enjoy your meals even more.

  • Containers for Specific Purposes:

    • Souper Cubes: Souper Cubes are designed for freezing soups, stews, and other liquid-based meals in individual portions.
    • Jars with built-in spoons: These jars are perfect for overnight oats, yogurt parfaits, and other grab-and-go breakfasts.
    • Bento boxes: Bento boxes offer multiple compartments for portion control and keeping different food items separate.
    • Salad Containers: These containers are specifically designed to keep salad ingredients fresh and prevent wilting.

  • Recommended Brands and Models:

    • Souper Cubes: Souper Cubes offers trays in various sizes, allowing you to freeze precise portions of your favorite soups and stews.
    • Jars with Built-In Spoons: Look for 16-ounce jars with lids and built-in spoons for convenient breakfast meal prepping.
    • Bentgo Salad Container: This bento box-style container has a large section in the bottom for holding salad greens, then a separate divider compartment that stacks on top for holding three more salad components, plus dressing.

  • Features and Benefits:

    • Souper Cubes: Allows for freezing individual portions, easy to store and reheat.
    • Jars with built-in spoons: Convenient for on-the-go breakfasts, microwave and dishwasher-safe.
    • Bento boxes: Portion control, keeps food items separate, stylish design.
    • Salad Containers: Keeps salad ingredients fresh, prevents wilting, includes dressing container.

  • Pros and Cons of Mason Jars:

    • Pros: Versatile, affordable, reusable, can be used for a variety of purposes.
    • Cons: Can be bulky, not always leak-proof, may require separate lids for optimal sealing.

Tips for Maximizing the Life of Your Meal Prep Containers

Proper care and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your meal prep containers, saving you money and reducing waste. Here are some essential tips to keep your containers in top condition:

  • Proper Cleaning and Care:

    • Dishwasher settings: Use the top rack for lids and delicate containers. Avoid high-heat settings for plastic containers.
    • Hand-washing tips: Use warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching.
    • Stain removal techniques: For stubborn stains, try soaking the container in a solution of baking soda and water or using a paste of baking soda and vinegar.

  • Storage Solutions:

    • Stack containers: Stack containers of the same size and shape to save space.
    • Nest containers: Nest smaller containers inside larger ones when not in use.
    • Use lid organizers: Keep lids organized and easily accessible with a lid organizer.

  • Lid Maintenance:

    • Clean lids regularly: Wash lids thoroughly after each use to prevent buildup of food residue.
    • Check for damage: Inspect lids for cracks or tears, and replace them if necessary.
    • Store lids properly: Store lids in a way that prevents them from being crushed or bent.

  • Replacing Worn-Out Containers:

    • Signs of wear and tear: Replace containers that are cracked, warped, or stained.
    • Disposal methods: Recycle plastic and glass containers whenever possible. Check with your local recycling program for guidelines.

Ready to revolutionize your meal prep game? Click here to explore our top-rated meal prep container collection and start saving time and eating healthier today!

FAQ

What are the best meal prep containers for weight loss?

For weight loss, portion control is key. Bento-style containers with multiple compartments can help you manage your portions effectively.

Are glass meal prep containers better than plastic?

Both glass and plastic have their pros and cons. Glass is non-toxic and oven-safe, while plastic is lightweight and durable. The best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

What size meal prep containers should I buy?

The ideal size depends on your typical meal sizes. Aim for containers that can comfortably hold your meals without excessive empty space. 24-30 oz containers are a good starting point for main meals.

How do I prevent my meal prep containers from leaking?

Choose containers with airtight and leak-proof lids. Ensure the lids are properly sealed before transporting your meals.

Are Rubbermaid Brilliance containers worth the money?

Rubbermaid Brilliance containers are known for their leak-proof design and stain-proof construction, making them a worthwhile investment for many users.

How do I store my meal prep containers to save space?

Stack containers of the same size and shape, and nest smaller containers inside larger ones when not in use.

Can I put my meal prep containers in the oven?

Only oven-safe glass containers can be used in the oven. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before using any container in the oven.

What are the best meal prep containers for salads?

Salad containers with separate compartments for toppings and dressing are ideal for keeping salads fresh and preventing wilting. The Bentgo Salad container is a great option.

How often should I replace my meal prep containers?

Replace containers that are cracked, warped, or stained. The lifespan of your containers depends on the material and how well they are cared for.

Where can I buy cheap meal prep containers?

Discount stores, online retailers, and restaurant supply stores often offer affordable meal prep containers. Look for sales and promotions to save even more money.