Small Food Storage Containers

You may not think it a big deal when deciding what type of storage container best fits the needs of your family however if you find that you tend to cook meals that can last for a couple of days or like most busy families you eat out often but can never finish your meal then you do have a concern of what type of small food storage containers are best suited for your tasty leftovers.

Small food storage containers are good for transporting meals to school or work as well as refrigerator storage.  There are quite a few food containers on the market that can serve both of these needs that allow you to move the items directly from the fridge to the lunch box. 

Naturally you want your food storage containers to be spill proof, break proof, light weight and do not retain odors after removing the stored food.  They should also be dish washer safe for those times when you are strapped for time and can’t take a moment to hand wash them.

Some people like the popular type of twist and lock small food storage containers which are a relatively new innovative method to food storage. They are inexpensive so they are easily replaced if you misplace them or the plastic degrades.  However, the problem is the concern about the safety of using plastic containers.

Today’s technology has solved that problem so there is no need to worry about contamination.  Even using them in the microwave is safe or using them in the freezer.  They can be taken from the fridge and used to reheat foods when you’re in a pinch for time.

If durability is not a necessity then disposable containers are fine however the lids are often not as tight fitting as some of the well known brands that have this feature as a standard.  Depending on storage space stack-ability might also be a consideration. 

I’ve yet to try the new collapsible containers but think they would make great small food storage containers.  Being able to interchange the lids is also important for my storage options as I often ramble in my storage area pulling out a random lid and am pleasantly surprised when the sizes of my food storage item share the same lids.  Actually it is not really a surprise as I’ve invested a little bit more money for a set that has that advantage plus if a container gets damaged or lost I have a backup.

Another great option is using Mason type jars as they keep items fresher longer and are inexpensive and odor free not to mention easy to clean.  They are heavier than plastic and you run the risk of breaking one every now and then but with careful use they last a long time and are especially useful for storing food items in the cupboard.
 
Even those deli-style plastic round pint and half pint containers from trade stores make great small food storage containers.  They are especially great for seniors who often lack the coordination or hand strength to get the lids off other type of containers. They are easy to hand wash and clean up easily and are dishwasher safe.

For the most part I find plastic type food containers best for my cereals, grains, pastas or leftovers. I use the glass jars for flour, beans, spices, and other non-perishables.

Whichever type of system you use for your small food storage containers pick one brand so you don’t have to deal with mixing up your bottoms and lids. Check the microwave durability for safety.  Most everyday containers should last a year or two with daily use, helping you get more than the value of money paid for them.