Low-Tox Food Storage Containers: Safe, Sustainable Options for Your Kitchen
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Switching to a low-tox lifestyle is an empowering way to protect your health and your family, and one of the easiest (and cheapest) areas to start is in your kitchen. If you’re like many people, your kitchen is stocked with plastic food storage containers, but they may not be the healthiest option when it comes to storing your meals. Traditional plastic containers can leach chemicals like BPA (bisphenol A) and phthalates into your food (and yes, even the microwave-safe and BPA-free products are problematic), especially when exposed to heat or worn over time.
By opting for low-tox food storage containers, you can make a small change with big benefits: healthier food, a safer environment, and a more sustainable kitchen.
In this guide, we’ll go over a couple of the best low-tox food storage container options, how to choose the right ones, and how to transition your kitchen without stress.
Why Switch to Low-Tox Food Storage Containers?
Traditional plastic containers can be convenient, but many are made with chemicals like BPA, BPS, phthalates and other concerning chemicals, which have been linked to hormone disruption, developmental issues, and even cancer in some studies. These harmful chemicals can leach into your food, especially when plastic is exposed to heat (like in the microwave or dishwasher) or when the containers have scratch marks or start to show signs of wear.
By choosing non-toxic alternatives such as glass, stainless steel, or silicone, you can eliminate the risk of harmful chemicals in your food storage. Low-tox containers also tend to be more durable, eco-friendly, and long-lasting, making them a win for both your health and the planet.
Top Low-Tox Food Storage Containers
Here are some of the best non-toxic and safe food storage containers you can use in your kitchen. They are made with materials that are BPA-free, phthalate-free, and free from other harmful chemicals, so you can feel good about what you’re using to store your food.
1. Pyrex Glass Food Storage Containers
Best for Versatility and Durability
Pyrex has been a trusted name in glass storage for generations. Their Glass Food Storage Containers are made from durable borosilicate glass, which is free from BPA, BPS, and other harmful chemicals. These containers are microwave safe, dishwasher safe, and perfect for both storage and reheating. As an added bonus, they are often easy to find and less expensive than some alternatives (I bought mine at Costco).
Pyrex containers come with secure, airtight plastic lids (just don’t microwave them with the lids on). They also come in various sizes and shapes to suit different food storage needs. Similar brands contain wood or bamboo lids, if you’re opting to nix the plastic altogether.
- Key Features: BPA-free glass, microwave and dishwasher safe, airtight lids
- Why It’s Great: Safe, long-lasting, versatile for heating and storing
- Price: Approximately $45 for an 18-piece set
2. LunchBots Stainless Steel Containers
Best for On-the-Go Storage and Kid’s Lunch Containers
If you’re looking for stainless steel food storage containers that are durable and non-toxic, LunchBots is one of many of the stainless food options on the market today. These containers are made from high-quality, 18/8 stainless steel. They are highly durable and dishwasher-safe, making them ideal for packing lunches or storing food when you’re on the go.
LunchBots containers come with leak-proof lids that are either stainless steel or made from BPA-free plastic, and they’re available in a range of sizes to meet different storage needs.
With 3 young kids, I feel a lot better giving them a stainless steel option rather than glass or plastic.
- Key Features: BPA-free stainless steel, leak-proof lids, durable
- Why It’s Great: Perfect for lunch boxes, reusable, safe for all food types
- Price: Approximately $35 for the 3-section bento-style lunch box
3. W&P Porter Glass in Silicone Food Storage Containers
Best for Stylish and Eco-Friendly Storage
W&P Porter offers a unique solution for those looking for a combination of glass and silicone in their food storage containers. The Porter Glass in Silicone containers are encased in a soft silicone sleeve, which makes them more durable and easier to grip. The glass is 100% free from BPA, phthalates, and lead, and the silicone sleeve provides an extra layer of protection.
Honestly, these are my favorite. But they are on the pricier end of your low-tox food storage options. Notably, my 3 year old chucked the one I bought onto the pavement day 1 and it didn’t shatter or even chip — I was impressed (with the lack of breakage, not with the throwing).
These containers are ideal for both storing food and taking meals on the go. They are microwave and dishwasher safe, making them a convenient and practical choice for everyday use. The Porter collection is stylish, eco-friendly, and comes in several sizes to suit your meal prep or food storage needs.
- Key Features: BPA-free glass, silicone sleeve for added protection, leak-proof lids
- Why It’s Great: Stylish, durable, eco-friendly, impressively sturdy, and perfect for on-the-go
- Price: Around $18–$30 depending on size
4. Glasslock Glass Food Storage Containers
Best for Oven-to-Table Storage
For a practical, leak-proof, and oven-safe option, Glasslock offers high-quality glass food storage containers. Made from tempered glass, these containers are resistant to shattering and are also BPA-free. They come with airtight, spill-proof lids, which are made from BPA-free plastic, so you can store food with confidence.
Glasslock containers are oven safe (without the lids), making them an excellent choice for both cooking and storing food. They’re perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
- Key Features: Tempered glass, BPA-free plastic lids, oven-safe without lids
- Why It’s Great: Leak-proof, versatile for cooking and storing, durable
- Price: Approximately $50 for a 24-piece set
5. Stasher Silicone Food Storage Bags
Best for Flexibility and Portability
If you’re looking for something more flexible than traditional containers, Stasher Silicone Bags are an excellent choice. Made from 100% platinum silicone, these bags are completely free from harmful chemicals like BPA, lead, phthalates, and latex. They are reusable, durable, and can be used in the microwave, freezer, or even in the oven (up to 400°F).
Stasher bags are perfect for storing snacks, leftovers, and are even supposed to be safe for liquids without worrying about leaks. They’re a great option for eco-conscious people looking to reduce their single-use plastic consumption and for taking food and snacks on-the-go (especially for kids).
- Key Features: 100% platinum silicone, reusable, microwave and freezer safe
- Why It’s Great: Flexible, multi-purpose, eco-friendly
- Price: Prices vary dependent on size, color, and variety packs
How to Choose the Right Low-Tox Food Storage Containers
When selecting the best low-tox food storage containers, consider these key factors:
- Material: Choose containers made from glass, stainless steel, or silicone, as these materials are safer options. Consider looking for items that are BPA free, but ALSO bisphenol F (BPF) or bisphenol S (BPS) free (BPA’s sneaky substitutes). Glass is ideal for storage and reheating, while stainless steel is great for durability and portability, especially with young kids. Silicone is flexible and versatile, especially for snacks or smaller portions.
- Size and Shape: Think about the types of food you store most often. If you meal prep, you’ll need larger containers. If you store leftovers or snacks, smaller containers or bags may be more useful. Having a variety of sizes will give you flexibility in the kitchen.
- Leak-Proof Features: For items like soups, stews, or packed lunches, look for containers with airtight and leak–proof lids. Many glass and stainless steel containers come with these features, which makes them ideal for safely storing food without mess.
- Durability: Make sure your containers are durable enough to withstand frequent use. Glass is sturdy but can break if dropped (so consider a glass with a silicone wrapping if you or someone in your home is particularly accident-prone), while stainless steel and silicone offer greater durability.
- Ease of Cleaning: Make your life easier by choosing containers that are dishwasher safe. This will save you time and energy when it comes to cleaning up after meals.
Final Thoughts
Switching to low-tox food storage containers is a simple but powerful step toward a healthier, more sustainable kitchen. Opting for glass, stainless steel and silicone all offer high-quality, non-toxic storage solutions that will help keep your food safe from harmful chemicals while also reducing your environmental footprint.
As you start transitioning to a more holistic-minded kitchen, keep in mind that you don’t have to throw away everything at once.
Start by replacing the most frequently used containers and slowly build a collection of non-toxic alternatives. Small changes can add up, and before you know it, you’ll have a kitchen full of safe, eco-friendly food storage solutions.
Happy storing!
