Choosing between glass and plastic containers is often confusing when it comes to store your food items. Here we have given a comparison helping you choose the right container.
Plastic or glass container? You may have come across this dilemma while choosing the container for food storage and meal prep. Both have their pros and cons. You like to choose the container which is best for both food and environment.
This is why you must weigh down both options to get the right one for you needs.
Plastic Containers:
Whether its bottle, bucket or jar, plastic containers are present in every kitchen across the world. Plastic containers are lightweight, easily portable and won’t damage if dropped. And good thing is that they are cheaper.
However, plastic can be your health threat as it seep out harmful chemicals to the food it stores. Besides, plastic waste is dangerous for environment.
Therefore, you must choose the plastic containers carefully. Plastics are categorized into seven codes, from 1 through 7. You can find these codes at the bottom of all plastic containers. These seven codes are given below….
Code 1:
Polyethylene terephthalate ethylene is used to make containers to store juice, soft drink, butter and water.
Code 2:
High-density polyethylene, which is used in manufacturing of shampoo and detergent containers
Category 3:
Polyvinyl chloride is used to package peanut butter and cooking oil and also detergent and window cleaner.
Category 4:
Low-density polyethylene is found in grocery store bags, most plastic wraps and some bottles.
Category 5:
Polypropylene is used in straws and other clouded plastic containers as well as yogurt and syrup containers.
Category 6:
Polystyrene you will find in egg cartons, Styrofoam food trays, disposable cups and bowls and carryout containers.
Category 7:
Usually polycarbonate is found most often in baby bottles, sports water bottles, some plastic cutlery and some name-brand food storage containers.
The safest plastic containers to store your foods are those coded with 1,2,4 and 5. Make sure to choose BPA free plastic containers.
Glass Containers:
Besides being attractive, glass containers are safe choice for food storage. Unlike plastic, they don’t leach harmful toxins when in contact with food. These containers can be safely used for hot liquids and foods. They can be used again and again as they don’t risk environmental and personal health. Glass containers can be washed and sterilized. Their transparency makes it easy to identify and manage food storage.
However, glass containers have their downsides too. They are delicate, requiring you to handle them with care. Plus, glass containers are expensive. But these risks are often outweighed by the benefits of these containers.
Which One You Choose?
Well, it is clear that both are the suitable containers for your kitchen. Plastic containers are safe as long as you follow precautions and avoid storing extreme food or liquid. Plastic food containers are ideal for storing cold food.
On the other hands, you have to be extra careful with glass containers as they are fragile and prone to breakage.