Freezing food is a practical and sustainable way to reduce food waste and save money. However, to achieve optimal results, it is crucial to use the right containers. Reusable containers for freezing food are essential for maintaining freshness, preventing freezer burn, and ensuring easy storage and reheating.
In this article, we will explore the best reusable containers for freezing food, highlighting their features, benefits, and how to choose the right ones for your needs.
Table of Contents
Why Reusable Containers for Freezing Food?
Reusable containers offer several key advantages for freezing food compared to single-use options:
Sustainability
Reusable containers are a more eco-friendly choice compared to disposable options like plastic bags or single-use plastic containers. By using reusable containers, you can significantly reduce the amount of waste going to landfills or oceans. This supports a more sustainable lifestyle and helps minimize your environmental impact.
Cost-Effectiveness
While reusable containers may have a higher upfront cost, they end up being more cost-effective in the long run. You won’t have to continuously purchase new disposable containers each time you want to freeze food. The initial investment in quality reusable containers pays off over time through the multiple uses you’ll get out of them.
Durability
Reusable containers are designed to withstand the rigors of freezing and thawing. They are made from durable materials like BPA-free plastic, silicone, or glass that can handle repeated use. This means you won’t have to replace them as often as flimsy disposable options that may break or degrade over time.
Food Safety
Reusable containers often have airtight lids or seals that prevent air from getting in and causing freezer burn. This helps maintain the freshness and quality of your frozen foods. The secure seals also prevent leaks, keeping your freezer clean and organized.
Versatility
Many reusable containers are designed to be multifunctional. They can be used not only for freezing, but also for refrigerator storage, microwave reheating, and even serving. This versatility makes them a convenient choice for meal prep, storage, and transport.
By considering these key advantages, it’s clear that reusable containers are a smart and sustainable choice for freezing and storing your food.
Top 8 Reusable Containers for Freezing Food
Freezing food is a practical and sustainable way to reduce waste and save money. However, using the right reusable containers is key for maintaining freshness, preventing freezer burn, and enabling easy storage and reheating. Let’s explore some of the best reusable options for freezing food, highlighting their features, pros, and cons.
1. Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers
The Rubbermaid Brilliance containers are a top choice for freezing food. They feature airtight lids that ensure a tight seal to prevent leaks and freezer burn. Made from durable, BPA-free plastic, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Another great feature is that they are microwave and dishwasher safe, making reheating and cleaning very convenient.
Pros:
- Airtight lids provide a secure seal
- Durable BPA-free plastic construction
- Microwave and dishwasher safe
- Stackable for easy freezer organization
Cons:
- May stain over time, especially with certain foods
2. Snapware Total Solution Plastic Food Storage
Snapware offers an affordable and practical option for freezing food in reusable containers. They are stackable for easy freezer storage and have lids that lock into place for a secure seal. Made from BPA-free plastic, they are safe for storing food.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly price point
- Stackable for compact storage
- Locking lids for a tight seal
- BPA-free plastic
Cons:
May stain over time, especially with richly colored foods
3. Souper Cubes Silicone Freezer Trays
For those looking for a flexible, easy-to-use option, Souper Cubes silicone freezer trays are a great choice. Made from durable silicone, they are reusable and dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. The trays are stackable for compact freezer storage. While not ideal for liquids, they work well for freezing individual portions of soups, sauces, and other foods.
Pros:
- Flexible silicone material
- Reusable and dishwasher safe
- Stackable for efficient storage
- Easy to pop out frozen portions
Cons:
- May not be best for freezing liquids
4. Bentgo 20-Piece Lightweight, Durable, Reusable BPA-Free 1-Compartment Containers
Bentgo offers a set of lightweight, durable, and reusable containers perfect for freezing individual portions. Made from BPA-free plastic, they are built to withstand repeated use. The compact size makes them easy to carry and store in the freezer. While the single compartment design limits capacity, they are ideal for freezing single servings of meals, sides, or snacks.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Durable BPA-free plastic
- Reusable for multiple uses
- Compact size for freezer storage
Cons:
- Limited capacity per container
5. YouCopia FreezeUp Freezer Food Block Maker
For those who want to freeze food in convenient blocks, the YouCopia FreezeUp trays are a great choice. Made from reusable silicone, they allow you to easily freeze individual portions of soups, sauces, and more. The compact size takes up minimal space in the freezer. While not suitable for large quantities, they are perfect for freezing single servings.
Pros:
- Reusable silicone material
- Easy to use for freezing food blocks
- Compact size for efficient freezer storage
Cons:
- Limited capacity per tray
6. Walfos Reusable Freezer Containers
Walfos offers a set of reusable freezer containers made from durable, BPA-free plastic. They are microwave and dishwasher safe for added convenience. The containers have tight-fitting lids to prevent freezer burn. While the single-serving size may not be suitable for large meals, they are perfect for freezing individual portions of soups, sauces, and other foods.
Pros:
- BPA-free plastic construction
- Reusable for multiple uses
- Microwave and dishwasher safe
- Tight-fitting lids for an airtight seal
Cons:
- Limited capacity per container
7. Freshmage Freezer Containers with Lids
Freshmage provides reusable freezer containers made from BPA-free plastic. They feature airtight twist-top lids to prevent freezer burn. The containers are microwave and dishwasher safe, making reheating and cleaning easy. While the single-serving size may not be suitable for large meals, they are perfect for freezing individual portions of soups, sauces, and other foods.
Pros:
- Reusable BPA-free plastic
- Airtight twist-top lids
- Microwave and dishwasher safe
Cons:
- Limited capacity per container
8. Zoku Neat Stack Food Storage Containers
Zoku offers a unique set of reusable freezer containers with built-in portion size labels. This makes it easy to portion out meals and snacks. They also include a cooling freezer pack to keep food cold during transport. Made from BPA-free plastic, they are reusable and durable. While not ideal for liquids, they work well for freezing individual portions of solid foods.
Pros:
- Reusable BPA-free plastic
- Built-in portion size labels
- Includes cooling freezer pack
- Compact stacking design
Cons:
- May not be best for freezing liquids
How to Choose the Right Reusable Container
When selecting reusable containers for freezing food, the material is a crucial consideration. Choose containers made from BPA-free plastics, silicone, or glass to ensure food safety. Avoid materials that may become brittle or crack at freezer temperatures. An airtight seal is also essential to prevent freezer burn and maintain food freshness. Look for containers with tight-fitting lids or seals that can be reinforced with freezer tape if needed.
The size of the containers is another important factor. Pick containers that are the right capacity for your needs – not too small or too large. Larger containers over 1/2 gallon can cause food to freeze too slowly, leading to quality issues. Durability is also key, as the containers need to withstand repeated freezing and thawing. Choose scratch and stain-resistant materials that can hold up well over time.
Ease of cleaning and maintenance should also be considered. Select containers that are dishwasher safe for added convenience. Versatility is another plus, as containers that can be used for both freezing and reheating are especially useful. Finally, balance the cost with quality and durability to ensure you get the best value. While reusable containers may have a higher upfront cost, they are more cost-effective in the long run compared to disposable options.
Tips for Using Reusable Containers
Here are some tips for using reusable containers for freezing food:
- Label and Organize: Label containers with the contents and date of freezing to ensure easy identification and organization.
- Leave Headroom: Leave enough headroom in containers to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Freeze Quickly: Freeze food quickly to prevent bacterial growth.
- Thaw Safely: Thaw frozen food in the refrigerator or cold water to prevent bacterial growth.
- Reheat Properly: Reheat frozen food to safe temperatures to prevent bacterial contamination.
Bottom Line
Reusable containers for freezing food are a sustainable and cost-effective solution for meal prep and storage. By choosing the right containers and following proper usage guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of a well-organized freezer, reduce food waste, and save money in the long run.
Whether you prefer plastic, silicone, or glass containers, there is a suitable option for every household. With the right containers and practices, you can make the most of your freezer and enjoy the convenience and savings that come with it.
