Storage Solutions: Ways To Avoid Plastic In Food Storage

Take a look at your kitchen—in your refrigerator, in cabinets—chances are there's a lot of plastic and single-use packaging and containers. Cutting down on plastic waste in the home doesn't need to be done overnight, instead start with small changes that add up over time. Food storage is a good place to start, and here are some tips to store food without relying on plastic from Recycle Across America.

The easiest change is to transition from using plastic containers to longer-lasting, higher-quality options like glass or steel. While generally a little more expensive, these types of containers usually have a much longer life and are often oven-safe, which means you can cook and store in the same container. In addition, glass won't melt in the microwave or dishwasher, and both glass and steel are ideal for freezer storage. To save money, keep large jars, such as pasta sauce, to use later.

For many, plastic wrap is a go-to for everything from covering dishes to protecting herbs, wrapping sandwiches and more. Instead of wasting time fighting with cling wrap that only seems to cling to itself, here are some easy swaps for storage.

• When covering leftovers, place a plate over bowls or serving dishes, or use glass jars or containers.
• To store lettuce, lay it flat on a tea towel, roll into a log, and lightly tie the ends to hold it all together.
• Similarly, beans, peas and similar vegetables can be stored wrapped up in a damp cloth.
• Sandwiches, cheese, and other food items can be wrapped in reusable beeswax wraps. While more expensive than traditional plastic wrap, the wraps can be cleaned and reused several times before they need to be replaced. For smaller snacks like chips or grapes, consider purchasing fabric sandwich and snack bags that are indefinitely reusable and easy to clean.

To store bread without relying on single-use plastic bags, wrap it in a pillowcase or a piece of fabric and place inside a wooden bread box.

Most fruits and veggies can be stored whole, no need for plastic at all. Starting at the store, trade out single-use plastic film produce bags for washable, reusable net bags, available in a variety of sizes. Once at home, place root vegetables like onions and potatoes in a basket in a cool, dark space to keep them fresh for the longest amount of time. Treat fresh herbs like a bouquet of flowers by snipping off the ends and placing them on a glass of water, then store in the counter or in the fridge. Celery and carrots, similarly, can also be stored in water, by standing celery in a glass of water and placing carrots in a jar of water.