Sustainable Food Storage Solutions
By Malia Noll
There are a myriad of places we can begin to notice plastic in our homes. What was once a household staple has slowly become something we itch to remove and replace altogether—especially when it comes to food storage. While it may not be realistic to do a full overhaul of all plastic products at once, we can take smaller steps towards progress like replacing one item or category at a time. Today, we’re focusing on food and drink storage solutions.
ADVERSE EFFECTS OF PLASTIC STORAGE ON OUR HEALTH & THE ENVIRONMENT
Consider this: many plastic storage containers, especially those that house food, contain BPA ( Bisphenol A), (a chemical found in many plastics) that is well known for its endocrine disrupting properties, meaning it can block or mimic the hormones in our body and cause adverse health issues (1). In addition to the concerns we have with plastic use for human health, the EPA cites that approximately 82.2 million tons of containers and plastic packaging were discarded in 2018, which accounts for 28.1% of total municipal waste in that year (2)! If individuals collectively worked to replace disposable plastic storage containers with reusable alternatives, we could greatly reduce the amount of discarded plastic and forgo many harmful chemicals that leach into our foods.
SO WHAT CAN WE DO?
This article tackles plastic storage throughout the home and offers practical alternatives to your current needs. For food, we highly recommend switching to glass storage solutions or food grade silicone. Silicone is produced using silica (from sand), oxygen and carbon molecules to produce a flexible, lightweight material that is as pure as glass, won’t break when cared for properly, and is resistant to high heat. Food grade silicone has revolutionized the sustainable food storage industry, and we’re endlessly excited to continue supporting high quality brands that produce innovative, safe products for consumers.
Keep reading as we dive into our favorite sustainable storage solutions for the home that will serve you (literally) for years to come.
Coffee Storage
STOJO COFFEE CUP
A collapsible coffee mug? You better believe it! Stojo’s sturdy design keeps hot drinks contained and leak-free when full, and easily collapses for easy storage after a wash. The innovative design is truly exciting, and this cup is sure to be a staple in your weekday coffee routine!
Sustainability Practices:
Made of LFGB certified, food grade silicone
Free from BPA, Lead, Phthalates, Glues and Adhesives
Our Picks:
PORTER CERAMIC MUG
Ideal for travel or simply keeping your drink warm on a commute or car ride, Porter’s minimalist ceramic mug combines modern style with functionality. Dishwash between use for easy cleaning, and even microwave as you sip so your drink is always piping hot!
Sustainability Practices:
No need for paper or plastic coffee mugs
Reusable
Ceramic
Our Picks:
Ceramic To-Go Mug 12oz, $26
Lunch Storage
STOJO BOX
Sandwiches and salads on-the-go have never looked better. Aside from the on-point aesthetics of Stojo’s products, you’ll love how easy it is to pack, seal and be on your way. And the easy-open lids are a great solution to packing lunches for the kids.
Sustainability Practices:
Made of LFGB certified, food grade silicone
Free from BPA, Lead, Phthalates, Glues and Adhesives
Our Picks:
STOJO BOWL
Another to-go essential we just can’t live without - Stojo bowls! Mix and match your collection of Stojo products or opt for all one color scheme to create a unified look. You only need a few products—simply dishwash between uses and you’ll always have them on hand!
Sustainability Practices:
Made of LFGB certified, food grade silicone
Free from BPA, Lead, Phthalates, Glues and Adhesives
Our Picks:
PORTER BOWL
These spill-proof glass and silicone storage containers prove that upgrading to eco-friendly food storage solutions can be incredibly exciting. Grab these any time you pack your lunch, and never worry if liquids slosh around—the seal tight lid has you covered!
Sustainability Practices:
Glass and silicone are a perfect alternative to plastic containers
Reusable and made to last
Our Picks:
Refrigerator Storage
HAWKINS NEW YORK LIDDED BOWLS
Whether you’re a baker, a seasoned chef or a simple cook, every kitchen requires a non-toxic, beautiful set of mixing bowls that double as storage containers for everyday dishes. We love the neutral finish of these bamboo bowls and the natural texture of their beechwood lids. They even nest perfectly together when not in use, saving prime real estate in cluttered kitchen drawers and cabinets.
Sustainability Practices:
Made of Recycled Bamboo Fiber + Beechwood
100% biodegradable materials
Our Picks:
STASHER BAGS
Stasher bags are an essential home storage product for our SISTAIN team! They’re incredibly versatile, and will quickly become your go-to solution for storing everything from a half chopped onion to frozen veggies or snacks on-the-go. Plus, they’re dishwasher, microwave and oven safe!
Sustainability Practices:
Made from the highest quality platinum silicone, which does not degrade over time
Free of BPA, BPS, lead, latex, and phthalates
Stasher has passed all U.S. and Canadian food safety standards in addition to the most strict guidelines of all, the European Union food safety standard. Even their colorants, which give Stasher bags their “to-dye-for” hues, are completely safe for food.
Our Picks:
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Malia Noll is a former public accountant turned self-employed copywriter who works with small businesses to build genuine connections to customers through strategic writing. Malia is based in Columbus, Ohio and specializes in promotional writing, email marketing and editing.
