What to use instead of plastic to store food?

November 17, 2025 •

3 min read

Studies suggest chemicals leach from food packaging, affecting safety. Discover what to use instead of plastic to store food and find healthier, sustainable options for your kitchen, like glass containers and beeswax wraps.

Quick Summary

Safe and sustainable alternatives exist for food storage, including glass, stainless steel, and silicone. These options are durable and prevent chemical leaching, benefiting health and the environment.

Key Points

Glass containers are safe and non-toxic: They don't leach chemicals and resist stains and odors, making them a long-lasting storage solution.
Stainless steel is lightweight and durable: Perfect for lunches and travel, these containers are unbreakable and won't leach toxins into your food.
Silicone bags are flexible and reusable: These food-grade bags are leakproof, freezer-safe, and can replace disposable plastic bags.
Beeswax wraps offer breathability: A great eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap, they are ideal for storing produce, cheese, and bread.
Mason jars are a versatile and affordable option: They can be used for dry goods, liquids, and freezing, providing a budget-friendly way to go plastic-free.
Avoid microwaving food in plastic: Heat can accelerate the leaching of harmful chemicals from plastic into your food, so always transfer to glass or ceramic first.

Safer Alternatives to Plastic Food Storage

Transitioning away from plastic food storage is a crucial step for both personal health and environmental sustainability. Many common plastics, particularly when heated or scratched, can release endocrine-disrupting chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates. Fortunately, there are many reusable, non-toxic alternatives available today.

Glass Containers: Versatility and Transparency

Glass containers are a cornerstone of eco-friendly kitchens for good reason. Made from natural ingredients like sand, they are chemically inert, meaning they will not leach harmful substances into your food, even when heated. Their non-porous surface resists stains and odors, so last night's curry won't leave a lasting impression.

Benefits of glass containers:

Non-toxic: No BPA, phthalates, or other synthetic additives are a concern.
Durable and Long-Lasting: With proper care, glass containers can last for decades.
Versatile: They are microwave, oven (check manufacturer for temperature limits), freezer, and dishwasher safe.
Airtight Seals: Many options come with secure, airtight lids to keep food fresh for longer.
Fully Recyclable: Glass is endlessly recyclable without a loss in quality.

Stainless Steel Containers: Unbreakable and Lightweight

For packed lunches or situations where you need a more durable option, stainless steel is an excellent choice. Food-grade stainless steel is rust and corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and virtually indestructible.

Benefits of stainless steel:

Highly Durable: Resistant to shattering, cracking, and warping.
Lightweight: A more portable choice than glass for on-the-go meals.
Non-Toxic: Does not contain BPA or other harmful chemicals.
Odor and Stain Resistant: The non-porous surface is easy to clean and doesn't hold onto strong smells.
Recyclable: At the end of its long life, stainless steel is 100% recyclable.

Reusable Silicone Bags: Flexible and Space-Saving

Silicone bags offer a flexible, leakproof alternative to disposable plastic zipper bags. Made from food-grade silicone, they are free from BPA and phthalates and can be used for freezing, microwaving, or even sous vide cooking.

Benefits of silicone bags:

Flexible and Collapsible: Ideal for saving space in the fridge, freezer, or pantry.
Temperature Resistant: Safe for use in the freezer, microwave, and dishwasher.
Airtight and Leakproof: Great for storing marinades, sauces, and soups without fear of spills.
Non-Toxic and Non-Reactive: Won't leach chemicals into your food.

Beeswax Wraps: The Breathable Alternative

As a replacement for plastic cling film, beeswax wraps are a popular and effective alternative. Made from cotton coated in beeswax, jojoba oil, and tree resin, they are reusable, compostable, and naturally antibacterial.

Benefits of beeswax wraps:

Eco-Friendly: Reusable and biodegradable, reducing single-use plastic waste.
Breathable: Helps keep certain foods like cheese, bread, and produce fresher for longer by preventing excess moisture buildup.
Natural and Safe: Made from food-safe, natural ingredients.

Comparison of Plastic Alternatives for Food Storage


Feature	Glass	Stainless Steel	Silicone Bags	Beeswax Wraps
Microwave Safe	Yes (without lid)	No (metal)	Yes	No (will melt)
Oven Safe	Yes (check limits)	Yes (check limits)	Yes (check limits)	No (will melt)
Freezer Safe	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Weight	Heavy	Lightweight to Moderate	Lightweight	Very Lightweight
Visibility	Transparent	Opaque	Translucent	Opaque
Durability	High (but fragile)	Very High	Very High	Low
Cost (Initial)	Moderate to High	Moderate to High	Moderate	Low

Other Eco-Conscious Tips for Food Storage

Beyond these container alternatives, other sustainable practices can help minimize plastic use:

Mason Jars: Versatile and affordable, mason jars are great for storing everything from dry goods and grains to soups and salads.
Cloth Produce Bags: Replace single-use plastic bags for produce at the grocery store and use them for short-term storage in the fridge.
Reusable Bowl Covers: For covering leftovers in bowls, reusable silicone or organic cotton covers are a simple, effective solution.
Consider What You Already Have: Repurposing existing glass jars from items like pickles or honey is a great way to start your plastic-free journey without extra cost.

Conclusion: Making the Switch for a Healthier Kitchen

Moving away from plastic food storage is a health-conscious and environmentally responsible choice. Options like durable glass, lightweight stainless steel, flexible silicone bags, and breathable beeswax wraps offer excellent performance without the risk of chemical leaching. While plastic containers may be convenient and cheap initially, investing in reusable, non-toxic alternatives pays off in the long run for your health and the planet. A mindful switch to these superior materials can transform your kitchen into a safer, more sustainable space for you and your family.

The Earthling Co. 7 Plastic Wrap Alternatives.
BBC. Are plastic storage containers safe for food? .

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, glass is a chemically inert and non-porous material, meaning it will not leach any harmful toxins or absorb odors and stains. This makes it one of the safest and most hygienic options for storing food.

No, you should never place stainless steel containers in the microwave. As a metal, it can cause sparks and damage the appliance. However, it is safe to use in the oven for cooking or reheating.

With proper care, beeswax wraps can last for up to a year or more. To clean them, simply hand wash with cool water and a mild, eco-friendly soap, then air dry. Avoid using hot water, as it will melt the wax.

Yes, food-grade silicone is considered non-toxic and is safe for food storage. It is highly temperature-resistant and can be used safely in both the freezer and the microwave.

The main disadvantages of glass are its weight and fragility. Glass containers are heavier than plastic or silicone, which can be a factor for portability, and they can break if dropped.

Yes, you can use cotton mesh produce bags, beeswax wraps, or simply place items in airtight glass containers. Some vegetables can also be stored in bowls of cold water to maintain freshness.

While BPA-free plastics remove Bisphenol A, they can sometimes replace it with other bisphenols like BPS or BPF, which may also have endocrine-disrupting effects. For the safest option, it is best to avoid plastic entirely, especially when heating food.