Tropical Mango & Avocado Bowl In Coconut Bowls, White Table (1)

The Best Containers for Meal Prep and Storage

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The Best Containers for Meal Prep and Storage (Yes, Including Coconut Bowls!)

Meal prepping has become a game-changer for busy people looking to save time, eat healthier, and reduce food waste. But let’s face it, the success of your meal prep routine depends not just on what you cook but also on how you store it. The right containers can make all the difference in keeping your meals fresh, organized, and ready to grab on the go. Whether you’re a seasoned meal prepper or just getting started, this guide will help you choose the best containers for your needs—yes, we’ll even talk about coconut bowls!

The Best Containers for Meal Prep and Storage (Yes, Including Coconut Bowls!)

1. Glass Containers with Airtight Lids

Glass containers are the gold standard for meal prep, and for good reason. They’re durable, non-toxic, and don’t retain odors or stains from food. Plus, they’re microwave-, oven-, and dishwasher-safe, making them incredibly versatile. If you’re prepping meals that need reheating, glass containers are a great choice because they don’t warp or release harmful chemicals when exposed to heat.

Look for options with airtight lids to keep your meals fresh for longer. Bonus points if the lids have snap locks or silicone seals to prevent leaks—perfect for soups, stews, or saucy dishes.

Best For: Main meals, leftovers, and reheatable dishes.

2. BPA-Free Plastic Containers

If you’re looking for lightweight and budget-friendly options, BPA-free plastic containers are a solid choice. They’re great for people who carry their meal prep to work or school because they’re lighter than glass and less likely to break. Many plastic containers are also stackable, which makes them ideal for small kitchens or packed fridges.

However, it’s important to check that they’re microwave-safe (and avoid microwaving them too often) to prevent wear and tear. While plastic containers are convenient, they may not last as long as glass ones and can sometimes retain food odors.

Best For: Snacks, salads, and meals on the go.

3. Stainless Steel Containers

Stainless steel containers are sleek, durable, and eco-friendly. They’re perfect for those who want a long-lasting option that doesn’t involve plastic. Stainless steel is also naturally odor- and stain-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about your container smelling like yesterday’s curry.

Keep in mind that stainless steel containers aren’t microwave-safe, so they’re better suited for cold meals or foods that don’t need reheating. They’re also great for outdoor activities like camping or picnics because they’re virtually indestructible.

Best For: Cold meals, salads, and outdoor adventures.

4. Silicone Food Storage Bags

Silicone food storage bags are a fantastic alternative to single-use plastic bags. These reusable bags are flexible, lightweight, and easy to clean. They’re perfect for portioning out snacks, storing chopped fruits and veggies, or freezing individual servings of soup or sauce.

Most silicone bags are freezer-, microwave-, and dishwasher-safe, making them incredibly versatile. Plus, they’re a great space-saving option since they take up less room than rigid containers.

Best For: Snacks, freezer storage, and portioning.

5. Coconut Bowls

Yes, coconut bowls deserve a special mention! These eco-friendly bowls are made from upcycled coconut shells and bring a natural, rustic vibe to your meal prep game. While they’re not ideal for storing food in the fridge or freezer (since they aren’t airtight), they’re fantastic for serving meals like smoothie bowls, salads, or grain bowls.

Coconut bowls are lightweight and biodegradable, making them a sustainable choice for anyone looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Just remember that they’re best suited for dry or room-temperature foods and should be hand-washed to maintain their quality.

Best For: Serving smoothie bowls, salads, and snacks.

6. Mason Jars

Mason jars aren’t just trendy—they’re also incredibly practical for meal prep. These glass jars come in various sizes and are perfect for layering salads, storing overnight oats, or portioning out snacks like nuts and trail mix. Their airtight lids keep food fresh and prevent spills.

Mason jars are also freezer-safe if you leave some room at the top for expansion. However, they can be a bit heavy and fragile, so they might not be the best choice for on-the-go meals.

Best For: Salads, overnight oats, and snacks.

7. Divided Containers

If you like keeping your foods separate (hello, picky eaters!), divided containers are a must-have. These containers come with built-in compartments that make it easy to portion out meals without mixing everything together. They’re especially handy for bento-style lunches or meals with multiple components like protein, veggies, and grains.

Divided containers are available in glass, plastic, or stainless steel options, so you can choose one that fits your needs.

Best For: Bento lunches and portion control.

Tips for Choosing the Right Containers

  • Consider Your Lifestyle: If you’re always on the go, lightweight options like BPA-free plastic or silicone bags might be more practical than heavier glass containers.
  • Think About Storage Space: Stackable containers can save a lot of room in your fridge or pantry.
  • Invest in Quality: Spending a little more on high-quality containers can save you money in the long run since they’ll last longer.
  • Opt for Eco-Friendly Options: If sustainability is important to you, look for reusable materials like glass, stainless steel, silicone, or coconut shells.

The Best Containers for Meal Prep and Storage

Meal prep is all about making your life easier—and having the right storage containers is key to staying organized and keeping your food fresh. Whether you go for sturdy glass containers, lightweight silicone bags, or charming coconut bowls for serving your creations, there’s something out there to fit every lifestyle and preference.

So next time you gear up for meal prep Sunday (or whatever day works best for you), don’t forget to stock up on the right containers.

Your future self will thank you!

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