Enjoying leftovers is something we all look forward to, and the new year is a good time to kit out your kitchen with reusable containers in a range of shapes and sizes, making it easy to store them. When you think about the fact that 50 percent of the plastic in the U.S. is only used once, the question of how to store leftovers on a regular basis becomes more pressing. Here are three brands that offer a range of sustainable solutions.
U-Konserve
U-Konserve is B Corp-certified, which means they’ve met rigorous environmental standards. The stainless steel nesting containers come with sturdy silicone lids in a great selection of shapes and sizes, perfect for storing food for meal prep, picnics, lunch at work and, of course, leftovers, with zero waste. Plus, U-Konserve belongs to 1% for the Planet, and donates five percent of every online purchase to nonprofit partners. ukonserve.com
Food Huggers
These whimsical, flexible containers, made of 100 percent BPA- and phthalate-free food-grade silicone, will keep fruits and vegetables—or any food leftovers, really!—fresh, and reduce waste. They look like colorful envelopes, in various shapes and sizes, and are a great alternative to plastic, aluminum foil and other single-use solutions. Food Huggers offer an airtight seal, and don’t take up a lot of space, as they “nest” in four sizes—and even offer a hugger specially designed for avocados! foodhuggers.com
ECOlunchbox Splash Box XL
When it comes to food storage, we love to see XL! Made from stainless steel and food-grade silicone—with an embossed ocean- inspired design on the lid—the ECOlunchbox Blue Water Bento food container holds five cups, is dishwasher safe and, best of all, it’s leakproof! Great for storage in the fridge, backpack or briefcase, and easy to open, too. ecolunchboxes.com