When looking into food storage, you’ll have to decide what containers you will be using. Glass and plastic are the two most common ones, each with their own pros and cons – but which of the two is the better choice? That’s what we will be focusing on here.
We can tell you right away, however, that the answer to this question depends on the context in which they will be used.
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Glass vs Plastic Containers
As mentioned, it’s not a simple answer of “A is always better than B”. Both types have their pros and cons, and it’s important to be aware of them to make a fully informed decision – after all, food storage containers will typically last you for quite some time, rather than being a one and done type of product.
So, why don’t we go through all of them?
Glass Containers
Let’s start with glass containers.
First of all, glass containers are often deemded as more eco-friendly, since they can be constantly reused and when taken care of right, can last you for years – you can throw them in the dishwasher or wash them by hand and they will be as good as new before you know it. Plus, they are recyclable.
Glass containers also tend to be considered safer. While it’s not really an issue if you purchase food-grade and high quality plastic containers, some substandard ones might be enhanced with chemicals that, to put it simply, are just not the best for your health. These chemicals can then get into your food, potentially creating a safety hazard. Glass, on the other hand, is a non-toxic material.
There’s also the aesthetic aspect, although this one is more personal, if you will. Some people prefer the look of glass containers rather than plastic ones.
Unfortunately, however, glass containers also have a number of cons. Firstly, they are quite heavy, which might not make that much of a difference when one or two containers are involved but can definitely be noticeable when we’re talking about more.
Then, there’s also the fact that they break more easily. All it takes is the wrong pavement, and all that is left from your beautiful glass food storage container is a memory and a pile of broken glass.
Plastic Containers
What about plastic containers, then? Are they better? Well, they certainly have their positives.
First of all, plastic containers are definitely cheaper due to the nature of the material they are made of and their production process – something to consider if you’ll be requiring many instead of just a few. This ties in with the second point, as they’re also much lighter compared to glass. That’s why caterers, or more specifically anyone who works with food that requires transportation, prefer purchasing high-quality plastic supplies rather than glass ones.
Secondly, plastic food containers present a lot more variety compared to glass containers – not only in terms of colors, but also shapes. Plastic containers can be molded into almost anything you want.
What about their sustainability, then? Are they really as bad as some portray them to be? Well, that depends on where you’re purchasing them from. At CMJJ Gourmet, we make sure that all of our products are recyclable.
Again, just like glass, however, plastic containers also have their cons – and one that can be bothersome if you’re worried about the aesthetics of your kitchen utensils is the fact that they tend to absorb the color of the food you put in it, leaving a stain behind.
Are Glass Containers Better than Plastic Ones?
So, are glass food containers better than plastic ones?
As we mentioned in the very beginning, the right answer would be – in some cases. Glass containers work best when you intend to only use them at home, for example, for meal preparation or when you end up with leftovers. They’re easy to clean, pretty durable and safe. However, they’re also rather heavy – and while with one, you probably won’t feel that much of a difference, the problem starts when you need to transport several.
That’s why, where transportation or catering is involved, plastic containers are a better choice. They are lightweight, don’t break as easily as glass and when bought from the right supplier, can also be eco-friendly, helping you keep your environmental impact under control.
If you’re planning on keeping your food stored long-term, however, then glass containers are a better choice. They’re non-porous, so no air or liquid will make its way into your food.
Plastic vs Glass Food Containers – An Overview
The Bottom Line
Both glass and plastic food containers are a common sight in kitchens, but have you ever wondered which of the two is a better choice? If so, now you have the answer – although we’re not sure it’s a satisfying one. The truth is that each of them is better in a different setting.
Just take the catering example we mentioned. Can you imagine carrying around dozens of heavy glass containers without a guarantee that they won’t break and, at the same time, contaminate the food with shreds of glass? Doesn’t sound like a pleasant scenario, if we’re honest. It goes the other way, too – in some cases, glass containers are simply more suitable.
It’s as simple as that.
Resources:
- https://www.marthastewart.com/8051855/best-material-food-storage-containers-plastic-metal-glass
- https://earth911.com/home-garden/glass-food-storage-containers/
