How to Buy Meal Prep Containers: 8 Powerful Tips

Introduction: 

Meal prep containers are like magic wands for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine, save money, and eat healthier. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or a parent, having the right meal planning containers can make your life a whole lot easier. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about meal planning containers, from choosing the perfect ones to using them effectively. Best of all, we’ll keep it simple, so even a 5th grader can understand!

What Are Meal Prep Containers? 

Meal planning containers are like super storage boxes for your food. They come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, and they’re perfect for keeping your food fresh and organized. You can use them to store leftovers, pack your lunch, or keep ingredients ready for your next meal. By preparing meals in advance and storing them in these containers, you can save heaps of time and eat healthier.

Why Use Meal Prep Containers? 

Using meal planning containers is like having a secret weapon in your kitchen arsenal. Here’s why they’re so awesome:

1. Saves Time: Cook once, eat for days! With meal planning containers, you can cook your meals for the week all at once, so you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen every day.
2. Saves Money: Forget expensive takeout – meal planning containers let you buy ingredients in bulk and cook at home, saving you a bundle in the long run.
3. Healthy Eating: When you prepare your meals, you’re in control of what goes into them. That means you can make healthier choices and avoid sneaky added sugars and fats.
4. Reduces Waste: Say goodbye to food waste! Storing leftovers in meal planning containers helps you make the most of your groceries and reduce your carbon footprint.

Types of Meal Prep Containers 

Meal prep container come in all shapes and sizes, but there are three main types to choose from:

Plastic Containers Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to carry
• Affordable and budget-friendly
• Available in heaps of different sizes and shapes 

Plastic Containers Cons:

• Can stain easily, especially if you’re reheating tomato-based dishes
• Some plastics may absorb odors from strong-smelling foods
• Not all plastics are safe for use in the microwave, so check the label before you zap them.

Glass Containers Pros:

• Durable and long-lasting, so you won’t need to replace them as often
• Stain-resistant, so they’ll stay looking good as new
• Microwave and oven-safe, making reheating a breeze 

Glass Containers Cons:

• Heavier than plastic, which might make them trickier to transport
• Typically more expensive upfront, but they’ll pay for themselves in the long run
• Glass can break if dropped, so handle with care.

Stainless Steel Containers Pros:

• Super durable and built to last a lifetime
• Won’t stain or absorb odors, no matter what you throw at them
• Environmentally friendly and fully recyclable 

Stainless Steel Containers Cons:

• Not safe for use in the microwave, so you’ll need to transfer your food to a microwave-safe dish before reheating
• Generally more expensive than plastic or glass options
• Heavier than plastic, which might not be ideal for on-the-go meals.

How to Choose the Best Meal planning Containers 

When it comes to choosing the perfect meal prep containers, there are a few key things to keep in mind:

1. Size and Shape: Pick containers that match your portion sizes and fit neatly in your fridge or pantry.
2. Material: Decide whether you prefer plastic, glass, or stainless steel, based on your needs and preferences.
3. Lids: Look for containers with snug-fitting lids that seal tightly to keep your food fresh and prevent leaks.
4. Microwave and Freezer Safe: If you plan on reheating or freezing your meals, make sure your containers can handle it.

Tips for Effective Meal Prepping Ready to become a meal prep pro? 

Here are some simple tips to get you started:

1. Plan Your Meals: Sit down and decide what you want to eat for the week ahead, then make a shopping list and hit the supermarket.
2. Cook in Batches: Spend a few hours on the weekend cooking up a storm, then divide your meals into individual portions and pop them in your containers.
3. Label Your Containers: Write the name of the dish and the date it was prepared on each container, so you know exactly what’s inside and when it needs to be eaten.
4. Store Properly: Pop your containers in the fridge or freezer, depending on when you plan to eat your meals, and make sure they’re properly sealed to keep everything fresh.

Easy Meal Prep Ideas for Beginners Feeling overwhelmed? 

Don’t worry – here are some simple meal prep ideas to get you started:

1. Grilled Chicken and Veggies: Cook up a batch of chicken breasts and roast some veggies like broccoli, carrots, and capsicum. Serve with brown rice or quinoa for a nutritious meal.
2. Spaghetti Bolognese: Whip up a big pot of spaghetti Bolognese and portion it out into containers for easy weeknight dinners.
3. Overnight Oats: Mix oats, milk, and your favorite toppings like berries, nuts, and honey in small containers. Leave them in the fridge overnight for a delicious grab-and-go breakfast.
4. Salad Jars: Layer your favorite salad ingredients in a jar, starting with the dressing at the bottom. Add veggies, protein, and greens on top, then shake and enjoy when you’re ready.

Maintaining Your Meal planning Containers 

Keep your meal planning containers in tip-top condition with these handy tips:

1. Wash Properly: Wash your containers with warm soapy water after each use, or pop them in the dishwasher if they’re dishwasher-safe.
2. Avoid Stains and Odors: Rinse your containers immediately after use to prevent staining and odors, and use baking soda or lemon juice to tackle stubborn stains.
3. Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your containers for cracks or damage, especially if they’re made from plastic. Replace any damaged containers to keep your food safe and fresh.

Choosing the Right Accessories for Meal Prep Success 

Level up your meal prep game with these must-have accessories:

1. Cutting Boards and Sharp Knives: Invest in high-quality cutting boards and sharp knives for efficient meal prep.
2. Measuring Tools: Make sure you’re portioning your ingredients accurately with a set of measuring cups and spoons.
3. Mixing Bowls and Storage: Use lightweight mixing bowls for ingredient prep and marinating, and stock up on high-quality storage bags and wraps for on-the-go meals.
4. Timers and Reusable Containers: Keep track of cooking times with a kitchen timer, and store your prepped meals in microwave, freezer, and dishwasher-safe containers for ultimate convenience.

FAQs:

Q: Can meal prep containers go in the microwave? 

A: It depends on the material. Glass containers and most BPA-free plastics are microwave-safe, but stainless steel containers should never be used in the microwave. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines to be safe.

Q: How do I preventplastic meal planning containers from staining? 

A: To prevent staining, rinse your containers immediately after use and avoid storing foods with strong colors like tomato sauce. You can also use a mix of baking soda and water to scrub out stains, or consider switching to

glass containers for foods that are likely to stain.

Q: Are meal planning containers dishwasher-safe? 

A: Many meal prep containers, especially those made from glass or high-quality plastic, are dishwasher safe. However, always double-check the manufacturer’s instructions. Washing lids by hand can extend their lifespan and maintain their sealing ability.

Q: How long can I store meals in meal planning containers? 

A: Cooked meals can generally be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you need to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Remember to label your containers with the date to track freshness.

Q: How can I ensure my meal planning containers are leak-proof? 

A: Look for containers with airtight, secure locking lids. Some containers come with silicone seals for extra leak protection. Testing with water before using them for liquids can help ensure they are leak-proof.

Conclusion

Meal prep containers are like magic wands that can transform your cooking routine. By choosing the right containers and following simple meal prep tips, you can save time, money, and effort while eating healthier meals. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, meal planning containers are a game-changer. So, what are you waiting for? Get prepping and enjoy the benefits of a well-organized kitchen and nutritious meals every day!