The packaging that we are going to propose as an eco-friendly alternative to plastic packaging is not so-called smart. They don’t even have an innovative design . They are simply non-plastic containers, made with other materials, with the common denominator of being interesting substitutes for storing food. It will be enough to replace them to achieve a qualitative change for our health and also for the environment.
For various reasons, they are more environmentally friendly than plastic . Healthier for our body, both in the first use and if we reuse them and, on the other hand, they are also less polluting because, as is known, precisely non-biodegradable plastic.
At least in theory, all of them are suitable for storing food, including those made of plastic, as long as it is a plastic or, in general, a material that meets the requirements established by the regulations in this regard.
In the case of plastic materials, however, despite being legally suitable and allowed for food use, it is also true that their composition includes elements that are dangerous to health in numerous studies. Among others, phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA) or PCBs.
Although there are different types of plastics, they generally release toxins or particles that are harmful to health , which we end up ingesting with food. Especially when both the container and the content are hot or simply due to their use over time.
Thus, following the maxim that prevention is better, the most sensible thing to do is not gamble and fill our fridge and pantry with containers made of healthier and more sustainable materials , such as glass or stainless steel, let’s say.
- Hunting for plastic
- Crystal tuppers
- And other materials?
- Glass jars
- Creative recycling solutions
Index
Hunting for plastic
In these times, declaring war on plastic in the kitchen is an act of bravery. Although there are endless alternatives, it is not always easy to end their presence, in part because it is difficult to go against the current, and today plastic is the king of packaging, food and non-food.
In this post we are going to give you easy-to-find alternatives that represent eco-friendly benefits for our health and that of the planet, in this second aspect, either because of their durability or because they are biodegradable.
Crystal tuppers
Tupperware glass containers are very popular, so finding them and choosing the sizes and models that are practical for us is easy. In particular, they will be very useful when, in addition to being used as storage, the content is introduced hot or subsequently heated, either in the microwave or when going on a picnic or exposing them to the sun for any other reason.
Some models allow you get them to the table directly, so we saved using plates, an advantage that, thinking about everything, so it is for the middle atmosphere , then avoid washing more dishes. In general, glass is a very safe material. We will hardly find others that offer us more guarantees of safety with respect to health and the environment.
And other materials?
Indeed, the glass is the material more safe (although the covers are made of plastic not being in contact with food is not a problem), but against the plastic is always preferable to use containers of other more environmentally friendly materials, such as steel stainless steel, silicone or bamboo, among others.
The stainless steel is releasing particles of almost invisible size, but if we do not scratch them when scrubbing them, with forks or other kitchen utensils, it is not significant either. Bamboo is another alternative, although quite unusual, and also silicone, which is becoming more and more common. It does not leave residues and its high tolerance to heat are two of its advantages, but bear in mind that there are different qualities and, therefore, also different heat resistances and even its durability is variable.
Glass jars
The glass jars that are used to store nuts, pasta, rice, sugar and many other foods are another eco-friendly alternative that can make a difference when choosing eco-friendly packaging. As with glass tuppers, in this case it is also convenient to use it in all cases.
Once again, it is important to underline its special convenience when choosing the ideal containers to store wet foods, be they jams, olives or cheese in oil, for example, since plastic containers release toxic materials. In these cases too, plastic is dangerous if it gets hot. Finally, the lids can be made of any material, since they are not in contact with food, ideally airtight, made of bamboo or other sustainable materials.
Creative recycling solutions
When launching with creative recycling it is important to take into account what we need. The important thing is to choose the right container depending on the place and the type of food.
Among other issues, let us bear in mind the importance of protecting the food from bugs , in which case we would have to look for a hermetic seal, or just the opposite, not even need a cover if what we are looking for is to be able to access the food just by stretching out our hand.
Once the most convenient design has been chosen, let’s make use of those glass jars that we have stored, waiting for their reuse. Or, why not, as can be seen in the image above, let’s use scraps of fabric to turn them into small containers for nuts, vegetables or other foods. As always, in matters of home recycling, imagination is power …
If you want to read more articles similar to Alternatives to plastic food packaging , we recommend that you enter our Recycling and waste management category .
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