Non-Plastic Kitchen Organization
Glass, Ceramic and Metal Food Storage Solutions
You have numerous glass, ceramic and metal options available when deciding to replace plastic food storage containers.
Replacing plastic containers for health or aesthetic reasons leads to a world of glass, ceramic and metal choices. The choices range from nostalgic to retro to simple. Storage solutions for the counter top or cabinet, refrigerator or freezer, and even the stove, microwave or oven are available for almost any decorative taste. When searching for the storage container, remember that not all solutions are as versatile as plastic.
Counter and Cabinet Storage
When storing food in canisters, whether on the counter or in a cabinet, a requirement is that the food stays fresh. Metal canisters can be beautiful for counter top displays, but make sure the container is safe for food storage and the lid creates a seal. A used container that shows signs of rusting or is painted on the inside would be better suited for holding bagged food or some kitchen gadgets. Similarly, investigate ceramic or pottery choices since some glazes, such as barium carbonate, are not considered food safe. If the stored item is not expected to remain in the container for more than a few days, such as a fresh batch of cookies, then an airtight lid is not as necessary.
Glass storage solutions are abundant and many have an airtight seal. Major manufactures, such as Pyrex and Anchor Hocking, have responded to the increase in requests for non-plastic counter top storage. There are many options available, whether looking for vintage glass and penny candy jars or plain jars so the contents are easy to see.
Refrigerator or Freezer
All three options are suitable for refrigeration and freezing. Metal is the least common, since it can react with some acidic foods, leave brown spotting on vegetables and cause a cold burn on fingers when it is removed from a freezer. Glass is convenient for refrigeration, especially for leftovers or meals prepared in advance, but can break or shatter if not specifically designed for freezing. Most ceramics can be both refrigerated and frozen; choose a brand such as Corningware that has tested their products for cold temperatures.
Stove, Oven or Microwave
Plastics gained popularity because they are an inexpensive and lightweight way to store leftovers and meals and then be directly reheated or cooked. Non-plastic options can be just as convenient, though they tend to cost and weigh more.
When choosing a metal storage container, realize that many of these containers cannot tolerate quick temperature changes. This is especially true of the thin ones designed as counter top or cabinet storage containers. An exception would be cooking pots and pans, which are designed for heating on the stove or in the oven. It is also not considered safe to place metal in the microwave due to sparking.
Glass and ceramic storage containers can conveniently go from cold to hot. Both are available in a wide variety of sizes. There is also large selection of styles and designs, which makes coordinating the different pieces easier. Though most glass and ceramic kitchenware is safe for all five conditions, make sure the containers are tested for use in whichever situations are desired; refrigeration, freezing, stove top, oven or microwaving.
