"Green" containers

DiamondDeb · 06-21-2009, 03:36 PM

Which types are safe for both people and the environment?

How to tell a safe plastic? Plastic water bottles are not safe...are the 1 & 5 gallon jugs we buy water in even safe? What to do?

Plastic wrap is not safe...but is aluminum foil OK?

Plastic storage containers are mostly said to be best avoided so I am using a few glass ones I have but what are the best options for storing foods in the fridge & freezer?

Darkfire · 06-21-2009, 04:10 PM

I do not nuke...I really try hard not to nuke anything. Dh won't let me throw it out, he uses it sparingly. To not leach anything into me.

Most of what I eat out of is pyrex glass bowls they have plastic lids. I do have some plastic buckets but most are recycled. These have a plastic lid but all glass in the nuker. Again I really try not to but a nice ribeye I cooked and now the fat is cold...sometimes I just can't help it...

When I cleaned out my father's house I was inundated with plastic buckets. I am still using them and he died in 2001. As they crack and break I recycle and do not buy more.

There are all glass storage bowls but the lids are not air tight.

For freezing I still have some bags. I buy the recycled kind at the Organic market. I use paper bags and butchers paper when I can. OR a glass bowl with no lid. Like for freezing fruit for a day or two. Like say some of my berries are going south for the winter....I just drop them in a glass bowl and freeze it for a smoothie or sorbet.

I also use shoe boxes. I store my soaps in there. Appliances, like my salad shooter which I use for cheese and grating soap for the laundry.

I am also interested in what others use.

BikerAng · 06-22-2009, 10:13 AM

I try my hardest not to use plastic either (and I don't own a microwave - friends and family think I'm weird!

).

I use glass mason jars (I've put them in the freezer, but one broke so I don't use them for freezing anymore). I bought pyrex bowls and storage containers (Costco had these for a while) and they are fine in the freezer (they do have plastic lids, I just try not to let the food touch the lid). For meat I wrap it butcher paper and then put them into the freezer zip lock bags (wish I had a better way to keep the freezer burn away, but this is the best solution I've found so far). I also have corning ware that I use to cook in and then just store the food in that in the fridge (I think they are freezer safe too?).

I pretty much use glass or ceramic/porcelain for everything I can. I still have a couple of plastic storage containers but will eventually recycle them (just keeping them around for when I bring food to BBQ's and stuff and then just leave it behind). I keep most glass containers (like pasta sauce or salsa jars) and use them for storing.

I found a large glass flip top type bottle at Ikea and use that for water when traveling.

fawn · 06-29-2009, 06:00 PM

I too don't have a microwave and like you Ang, use a lot of mason jars for storage. My water bottle is stainless steel and rarely do I purchase plastic wrap or aluminum foil. I save every glass jar also.

Aediekins · 06-29-2009, 06:54 PM

I have been phasing out plastic from our kitchen for about a year, and the conversion is pretty much complete! I do microwave still, but only in glass containers.

Mason jars ARE safe for the freezer, but only the following types...

Wide Mouth (16 oz) Pints Freezer safe
Regular Mouth (4 oz) Crystal Cut Freezer safe
Regular Mouth (8 oz) Crystal Cut Freezer safe
Regular Mouth (12 oz) Crystal Cut Freezer safe
Regular Mouth (8 oz) Half Pints Freezer safe

I do still use plastic baggies for lunch purposes as I havent found an alternative I am happy with. I don't use aluminum foil either.

Stainless steel is also good to use.

I just love my widemouth ball jars. And they look great in my fridge!

Love your signature Fawn!

DiamondDeb · 06-29-2009, 10:48 PM

I'll be working away from home soon and it just occurred to me I'm going to need something to take my lunches in. I know I'll be taking things like salads or soups or poultry/veggies. I've always taken them in Tupperware or something similar. What is a good alternative?

Aediekins · 06-30-2009, 02:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DiamondDeb

I'll be working away from home soon and it just occurred to me I'm going to need something to take my lunches in. I know I'll be taking things like salads or soups or poultry/veggies. I've always taken them in Tupperware or something similar. What is a good alternative?

Glass jars

Darkfire · 06-30-2009, 07:18 AM

To-Go Ware® - 3-Tier Stainless Steel Food Carrier - ReusableBags.com

I use the two tiered one. I love the thing. It really works.

JoSkids · 07-01-2009, 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Darkfire

To-Go Ware® - 3-Tier Stainless Steel Food Carrier - ReusableBags.com

I use the two tiered one. I love the thing. It really works.

Do a Bento Box search - many of them are plastic nowadays, but there are some metal ones (like the one darkfire shows above) and lacquer.

Keep in mind that bento boxes are not usually leakproof so they need to be carried in upright positions. Check out lunchinabox dot net. I think Biggie has explored plastic alternatives.

And to top it off, "Bento-ing" is fun!

Suncharm · 07-02-2009, 05:33 AM

I'd take soups in a stainless steel lined thermos, bring a glass bowl from home for microwaving if it doesn't stay hot enough

wrap sandwiches in butchers paper

I've also seen 3-tier stacking stainless lunch boxes.

If you have a drawer at your office you could keep a glass plate and bowl and real silverware for your use.

DiamondDeb · 07-02-2009, 12:33 PM

Are there any "green" containers that can be used in a microwave? I'm not interested in giving up my microwave and will want to take things like soup to work.

DiamondDeb · 07-02-2009, 12:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Suncharm

I'd take soups in a stainless steel lined thermos, bring a glass bowl from home for microwaving if it doesn't stay hot enough

wrap sandwiches in butchers paper

I've also seen 3-tier stacking stainless lunch boxes.

If you have a drawer at your office you could keep a glass plate and bowl and real silverware for your use.

Taking a glass bowl to use in the microwave might work. Sounds like taking a lot of stuff though.

JoSkids · 07-02-2009, 12:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DiamondDeb

Are there any "green" containers that can be used in a microwave? I'm not interested in giving up my microwave and will want to take things like soup to work.

Wouldn't canning jars work for that - just remove the lid before putting it in microwave.

DiamondDeb · 07-02-2009, 12:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JoSkids

Wouldn't canning jars work for that - just remove the lid before putting it in microwave.

Yes, but they would not be the best shape to eat out of. I was thinking about something so i would not have to take additional containers.

And I'd still need something to cover the top of the jar with when microwaving to prevent splatters.

JoSkids · 07-02-2009, 01:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DiamondDeb

Yes, but they would not be the best shape to eat out of. I was thinking about something so i would not have to take additional containers.

And I'd still need something to cover the top of the jar with when microwaving to prevent splatters.

ok, misunderstood. I thought you were looking for something to take your soup in to work and which would be heatable as well...

Aediekins · 07-02-2009, 01:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DiamondDeb

And I'd still need something to cover the top of the jar with when microwaving to prevent splatters.

Papertowel

Aediekins · 07-02-2009, 01:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Darkfire

To-Go Ware® - 3-Tier Stainless Steel Food Carrier - ReusableBags.com

I use the two tiered one. I love the thing. It really works.

Thank you for posting that link!!! Holy cow, that is just what I need. Now what do you use for ice? I mean to keep things cool? I still have those crap plastic ice blocks and would love an alternative.

DiamondDeb · 07-06-2009, 05:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aediekins

Papertowel

Not green. I'd rather not.

DiamondDeb · 07-06-2009, 05:39 PM

What about insulated containers for taking food to work? I think they are steel on the inside? Not sure. They'd eliminate the need to use a microwave at work, too.

I'm just not sure on all the good choices for containers and if a plastic lid might be a problem, too?

I hate investing in things I think are good only to discover they are not.

JoSkids · 07-06-2009, 05:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DiamondDeb

Yes, but they would not be the best shape to eat out of. I was thinking about something so i would not have to take additional containers.

And I'd still need something to cover the top of the jar with when microwaving to prevent splatters.

Invert the bowl that you would be putting the soup into...

brittone2 · 07-08-2009, 02:48 PM

We use pyrex mostly (freezer, fridge, oven, microwave)

If you must use plastic, #5 is currently thought to be the safest, but I try to avoid it as much as possible.

I use parchment (with is silicone coated). From what I've read, silicone in solid form is considered very stable and okay to use.

I do not use aluminum foil. If I do (when we camp and do "packet dinners" or "hobo dinners" I put the food in parchment paper, and then wrap the whole parchment bundle in foil.

DH, the kids and I all use Klean Kanteen water bottles (and love them!). My dd started w/ a KK as her first sippy cup

eta: we use mason jars and glass in general for storage. We have some ball jars that specify they are okay for freezing (I bought them to use for freezer jam but you can use them for other things as well).

DiamondDeb · 07-11-2009, 03:03 PM

I found info that the plastic gallon jugs for water are safe. I feel better knowing that. They're #2.

Quote:

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

A semi-rigid plastic used in milk jugs and some water containers. Appropriate for outdoor pursuits such as hiking and backpacking.

* Temperature range: -148°F to 248°F (-100°C to 120°C).
* To identify: Traditionally, HDPE is often a cloudy white color; colored versions are available. Exterior is firm yet slightly pliable.
* Recycling number: No. 2.
* PROS: Low weight; durable. Bottle's content level is viewable. Less expensive than copolyester or polycarbonate. BPA-free.
* CONS: With force, could be punctured. May retain or convey some odors or tastes.

Darkfire · 07-22-2009, 07:27 PM

I got a couple pics of my 'bento' in use and closed for you. This is the two tiered one from reusable bags. With a bonus of Kombucha and my Yogurt and frozen fruit for tomorrow.

06-21-2009, 03:36 PM	#1
DiamondDeb Fat Burning Machine Extraordinaire! Join Date: Jun 2002 Posts: 53,790 Gallery: DiamondDeb	"Green" containers Which types are safe for both people and the environment? How to tell a safe plastic? Plastic water bottles are not safe...are the 1 & 5 gallon jugs we buy water in even safe? What to do? Plastic wrap is not safe...but is aluminum foil OK? Plastic storage containers are mostly said to be best avoided so I am using a few glass ones I have but what are the best options for storing foods in the fridge & freezer?

06-22-2009, 10:13 AM	#3
BikerAng MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Duvall, WA Posts: 1,834 Gallery: BikerAng Stats: 195/167/155 5'9" WOE: Atkins - organic & humanely raised Start Date: Feb 2007	I try my hardest not to use plastic either (and I don't own a microwave - friends and family think I'm weird! ). I use glass mason jars (I've put them in the freezer, but one broke so I don't use them for freezing anymore). I bought pyrex bowls and storage containers (Costco had these for a while) and they are fine in the freezer (they do have plastic lids, I just try not to let the food touch the lid). For meat I wrap it butcher paper and then put them into the freezer zip lock bags (wish I had a better way to keep the freezer burn away, but this is the best solution I've found so far). I also have corning ware that I use to cook in and then just store the food in that in the fridge (I think they are freezer safe too?). I pretty much use glass or ceramic/porcelain for everything I can. I still have a couple of plastic storage containers but will eventually recycle them (just keeping them around for when I bring food to BBQ's and stuff and then just leave it behind). I keep most glass containers (like pasta sauce or salsa jars) and use them for storing. I found a large glass flip top type bottle at Ikea and use that for water when traveling. Last edited by BikerAng; 06-22-2009 at 10:16 AM..

07-08-2009, 02:48 PM	#21
brittone2 Senior LCF Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Posts: 403 Gallery: brittone2	We use pyrex mostly (freezer, fridge, oven, microwave) If you must use plastic, #5 is currently thought to be the safest, but I try to avoid it as much as possible. I use parchment (with is silicone coated). From what I've read, silicone in solid form is considered very stable and okay to use. I do not use aluminum foil. If I do (when we camp and do "packet dinners" or "hobo dinners" I put the food in parchment paper, and then wrap the whole parchment bundle in foil. DH, the kids and I all use Klean Kanteen water bottles (and love them!). My dd started w/ a KK as her first sippy cup eta: we use mason jars and glass in general for storage. We have some ball jars that specify they are okay for freezing (I bought them to use for freezer jam but you can use them for other things as well). Last edited by brittone2; 07-08-2009 at 02:50 PM..

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06-21-2009, 04:10 PM	#2
Darkfire MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Baltimore, Maryland 21225 Posts: 1,659 Gallery: Darkfire Stats: 319/296/137 WOE: Organic, Lowerish Carb, Gluten Free, Caesin Free Start Date: June 1 09	I do not nuke...I really try hard not to nuke anything. Dh won't let me throw it out, he uses it sparingly. To not leach anything into me. Most of what I eat out of is pyrex glass bowls they have plastic lids. I do have some plastic buckets but most are recycled. These have a plastic lid but all glass in the nuker. Again I really try not to but a nice ribeye I cooked and now the fat is cold...sometimes I just can't help it... When I cleaned out my father's house I was inundated with plastic buckets. I am still using them and he died in 2001. As they crack and break I recycle and do not buy more. There are all glass storage bowls but the lids are not air tight. For freezing I still have some bags. I buy the recycled kind at the Organic market. I use paper bags and butchers paper when I can. OR a glass bowl with no lid. Like for freezing fruit for a day or two. Like say some of my berries are going south for the winter....I just drop them in a glass bowl and freeze it for a smoothie or sorbet. I also use shoe boxes. I store my soaps in there. Appliances, like my salad shooter which I use for cheese and grating soap for the laundry. I am also interested in what others use. Last edited by Darkfire; 06-21-2009 at 04:12 PM.. Reason: ug hit send to soon

06-29-2009, 06:00 PM	#4
fawn Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 12,204 Gallery: fawn Stats: sz 18/4 WOE: Whole organic, free range, wild caught, pastured Start Date: February 7, 2000	I too don't have a microwave and like you Ang, use a lot of mason jars for storage. My water bottle is stainless steel and rarely do I purchase plastic wrap or aluminum foil. I save every glass jar also.

06-29-2009, 06:54 PM	#5
Aediekins MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Sep 2004 Posts: 1,169 Blog Entries: 1 Gallery: Aediekins Stats: St/199 Curr/189 Gl/160 and toned! WOE: General Low-Carb Start Date: 4th Restart- May 2009	I have been phasing out plastic from our kitchen for about a year, and the conversion is pretty much complete! I do microwave still, but only in glass containers. Mason jars ARE safe for the freezer, but only the following types... Wide Mouth (16 oz) Pints Freezer safe Regular Mouth (4 oz) Crystal Cut Freezer safe Regular Mouth (8 oz) Crystal Cut Freezer safe Regular Mouth (12 oz) Crystal Cut Freezer safe Regular Mouth (8 oz) Half Pints Freezer safe I do still use plastic baggies for lunch purposes as I havent found an alternative I am happy with. I don't use aluminum foil either. Stainless steel is also good to use. I just love my widemouth ball jars. And they look great in my fridge! Love your signature Fawn! __________________ Chelsie

06-29-2009, 10:48 PM	#6
DiamondDeb Fat Burning Machine Extraordinaire! Join Date: Jun 2002 Posts: 53,790 Gallery: DiamondDeb	I'll be working away from home soon and it just occurred to me I'm going to need something to take my lunches in. I know I'll be taking things like salads or soups or poultry/veggies. I've always taken them in Tupperware or something similar. What is a good alternative?

06-30-2009, 07:18 AM	#8
Darkfire MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Baltimore, Maryland 21225 Posts: 1,659 Gallery: Darkfire Stats: 319/296/137 WOE: Organic, Lowerish Carb, Gluten Free, Caesin Free Start Date: June 1 09	To-Go Ware® - 3-Tier Stainless Steel Food Carrier - ReusableBags.com I use the two tiered one. I love the thing. It really works.

07-02-2009, 05:33 AM	#10
Suncharm Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: Tampa Bay, FL Posts: 15,014 Gallery: Suncharm WOE: Kicking ED out of my life	I'd take soups in a stainless steel lined thermos, bring a glass bowl from home for microwaving if it doesn't stay hot enough wrap sandwiches in butchers paper I've also seen 3-tier stacking stainless lunch boxes. If you have a drawer at your office you could keep a glass plate and bowl and real silverware for your use.

07-02-2009, 12:33 PM	#11
DiamondDeb Fat Burning Machine Extraordinaire! Join Date: Jun 2002 Posts: 53,790 Gallery: DiamondDeb	Are there any "green" containers that can be used in a microwave? I'm not interested in giving up my microwave and will want to take things like soup to work.

07-06-2009, 05:39 PM	#19
DiamondDeb Fat Burning Machine Extraordinaire! Join Date: Jun 2002 Posts: 53,790 Gallery: DiamondDeb	What about insulated containers for taking food to work? I think they are steel on the inside? Not sure. They'd eliminate the need to use a microwave at work, too. I'm just not sure on all the good choices for containers and if a plastic lid might be a problem, too? I hate investing in things I think are good only to discover they are not.

07-22-2009, 07:27 PM	#23
Darkfire MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Baltimore, Maryland 21225 Posts: 1,659 Gallery: Darkfire Stats: 319/296/137 WOE: Organic, Lowerish Carb, Gluten Free, Caesin Free Start Date: June 1 09	I got a couple pics of my 'bento' in use and closed for you. This is the two tiered one from reusable bags. With a bonus of Kombucha and my Yogurt and frozen fruit for tomorrow.