Meal Prep Containers for Beginners Buying Guide

Meal Prep Containers for Beginners Buying Guide

Quick Summary

  • Freshware Food Storage Containers - Ideal for budget-conscious users requiring leakproof containers.
    Freshware Food Storage Containers [50 Set] 16 oz Plastic Deli Containers with Lids, Slime, Soup, Meal Prep Containers | BPA Free | Stackable | Leakproof | Microwave/Dishwasher/Freezer Safe
    View details
  • Dealusy 50 Pack (100-Piece) - Excellent for those needing a larger volume of reusable containers.
    Dealusy 50 Pack (100-Piece) 24 oz Meal Prep Containers Reusable with Lids, Sturdy Leakproof & Food Safe, Microwave, Freezer, Dishwasher Safe Prep Containers, To Go Take Out Plastic Food Storage
    View details
  • Bentgo Prep 20-Piece - Perfect for individuals looking for durable, compartmentalized options.
    Bentgo Prep - 20-Piece 1-Compartment Reusable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, PFAS & BPA Free Materials, Durable, Microwave, Freezer, & Dishwasher Safe To Go Food Storage (Mint)
    View details
  • Vtopmart Glass Food Storage Containers - Great for health-conscious users preferring glass storage.
    Vtopmart 8 Pack Glass Food Storage Containers with Airtight Lids, Glass Meal Prep Containers, Lunch Office Meal for Microwave, Oven, Freezer and Dishwasher, BPA Free
    View details
  • Dealusy 50 Set 32 oz Deli Containers - Suited for those who want convenience with solid leak-proof features.
    Dealusy 50 Set 32 oz Deli Containers with Lids, Leak-Proof BPA Free Plastic Take Out Bowls, Food Storage Containers for Takeout Meal Prep Storage, Freezer, Microwave & Dishwasher Safe
    View details

How We Picked

When selecting the best meal prep containers, our focus was on several key criteria:

  • Material: Prioritizing both plastic and glass options to cater to different preferences and health considerations.
  • Durability: Emphasizing containers that withstand repeated use, including microwave and dishwasher safe ones.
  • Leakproof Design: Essential for preventing spills, especially during transport.
  • Size Variety: Offering different capacities to accommodate various meal portions.
  • User Reviews: Highlighting containers with positive feedback, ensuring reliability and satisfaction.

Buying Guide / Decision Criteria

Material

The material of meal prep containers significantly impacts durability, microwave safety, and food safety. Common materials include:

  • Plastic: Lightweight and often more affordable, but consider BPA-free options for food safety.
  • Glass: Although usually heavier, they are microwave, dishwasher, and oven safe, without the risk of leaching chemicals.

Durability

Durability is crucial for meal prep containers, especially as they undergo regular cleaning and heating. Look for containers that are:

  • Microwave Safe: Ensure they can withstand microwave heat without warping.
  • Dishwasher Safe: Facilitates easy cleaning.
  • Freezer Safe: Important for users who like to batch cook and freeze meals.

Size and Capacity

Meal prep containers come in various sizes, making it essential to find what suits your needs:

  • Small (8-12 oz): Good for snacks or sides.
  • Medium (16-24 oz): Perfect for full meals.
  • Large (32+ oz): Ideal for bulk meals or family-sized portions.

Features

Key features can enhance user experience significantly:

  • Airtight Lids: Prevents spills and keeps food fresh longer.
  • Stackable Design: Helps save space in the refrigerator or pantry.
  • Easy Open Lids: Particularly useful for kids or elderly users.

Price

Budget considerations are pivotal. Meal prep containers can range from budget-friendly to premium. Assess:

  • Cost per unit: Bulk packs typically offer better value.
  • Warranty: Some brands offer warranties, reflecting confidence in their products.

Ranked Picks

1) Freshware Food Storage Containers

  • Best for: Budget-conscious users.
  • Consider if: You need a versatile, stackable, leakproof option.

The Freshware Food Storage Containers set includes 50 plastic 16 oz containers, offering a great balance of quality and cost. Made from BPA-free plastic, they're safe for food storage and resistant to stains and odors. These containers can be used in the microwave, and they're also freezer and dishwasher safe, making cleanup and storage a breeze. Their leakproof design ensures that your meals are secure during transport. This is a perfect option for anyone starting out in meal prep who wants an effective solution without breaking the bank. View details

2) Dealusy 50 Pack (100-Piece)

  • Best for: Individuals needing a large volume of reusable containers.
  • Consider if: You appreciate sturdiness and leakproof features.

The Dealusy pack stands out with its 100-piece offering of 24 oz containers that are perfect for meal prepping. Built from sturdy, food-safe plastic, these containers promise durability. They are microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe, ensuring versatile usage. The leakproof design adds to the appeal, preventing spills during transit. This container set is ideal for anyone looking to prepare larger meals or store multiple recipes efficiently while keeping an organized fridge. View details

3) Bentgo Prep - 20-Piece

  • Best for: Someone looking for high-quality, compartmentalized containers.
  • Consider if: You want variety in your meal prep with durable material.

The Bentgo Prep containers provide 20 pieces of 1-compartment, reusable containers that are both durable and functional. They're PFAS and BPA-free, making them a reliable choice for food safety. Microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe, their easy clean-up adds practicality to meal prep. Their durable construction makes them less likely to warp over time, ensuring they maintain their structure with repeated use. Ideal for people focused on healthy eating, this set allows for portion control and easy meal organization. View details

4) Vtopmart 8 Pack Glass Food Storage Containers

  • Best for: Health-conscious users preferring glass storage.
  • Consider if: You value airtight storage.

The Vtopmart pack of glass food storage containers is an excellent choice for those who prioritize health. These 8 containers come with airtight lids that keep food fresh and secure. They are safe for use in the microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher, making them incredibly versatile. The glass material doesn't absorb odors or stains, ensuring your food stays delicious and safe. These containers are ideal for anyone looking to eliminate plastic from their meal prep routine while still enjoying the benefits of portion control. This set is particularly suited for families or individuals preparing fresh meals. View details

5) Dealusy 50 Set 32 oz Deli Containers

  • Best for: Users who want convenience with solid leak-proof features.
  • Consider if: You're looking for bulk purchase options with hassle-free storage.

Another strong entry from Dealusy, the 50 set of 32 oz deli containers is designed for those who often prepare large portions or want to take meals on the go. These containers are made from leak-proof BPA-free plastic, making them suitable for both hot and cold foods, and they can withstand microwave, freezer, and dishwasher conditions. Their spacious design makes them perfect for family meals or storing a week's worth of lunches. This set provides great value and is ideal for busy individuals looking to streamline their meal prep without compromise. View details

Who Should Buy What

  • Budget Users: Freshware Food Storage Containers – Excellent price point with solid functionality.
  • Large Families: Dealusy 50 Pack (100-Piece) – Great for preparing large quantities of meals.
  • Health-Conscious Users: Vtopmart Glass Food Storage Containers – Ideal for those avoiding plastics.
  • Compact Spaces: Bentgo Prep Containers – Their compartmentalized design is perfect for smaller portions.
  • Frequent Travelers: Dealusy 50 Set 32 oz Deli Containers – Ideal for takeout and meal prep on the go.

FAQs

  • Are meal prep containers dishwasher safe? Most meal prep containers are designed to be dishwasher safe, but always check the manufacturer's specifications for best results.
  • Can I use these containers in the microwave? Yes, many meal prep containers are microwave safe, especially those made from BPA-free plastic and glass.
  • How do I prevent my meal prep containers from staining? Use non-staining foods when possible, and clean promptly after use. Glass options tend to stain less than plastic.
  • Can I freeze meals in these containers? Yes, many containers are freezer safe, but again, it's wise to confirm this on the product label to avoid damage.
  • Are there food safety concerns with plastic containers? Ensure the containers are BPA-free and food safe; this mitigates most concerns associated with plastic food storage.
  • What sizes do meal prep containers usually come in? Meal prep containers often range from small (8-12 oz) to large (32 oz or more), catering to different needs.
  • Should I buy single compartments or multi-compartment containers? This depends on your meal prep style; single compartments are great for varied meals, while multi-compartments help with portion control.
  • How do I stack my meal prep containers? Choose stackable designs to save space in the fridge, which also keeps your meal prep area organized.

Final Recommendation + Checklist

When choosing meal prep containers, consider these final recommendations:

  • Assess Your Needs: Determine how much food storage you'll need.
  • Prioritize Materials: Decide between plastic and glass based on your lifestyle.
  • Look for Durability: Ensure containers are microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe.
  • Consider Features: Airtight and stackable features can enhance functionality.
  • Budget Wisely: Find a balance between quality and cost.

By following this guide, you can confidently choose the right meal prep containers to suit your cooking and storage needs!