Food Storage Container Buying Guide: Find the Right Containers

Wilted lettuce in the fridge, leftovers that quickly lose their flavour, or the challenge of transporting your work lunch without leaks—a well-organized kitchen depends on the right storage solutions. High-quality food storage containers are more than just simple boxes. They help reduce food waste, preserve the freshness and taste of your meals, and simplify daily life through meal prepping.

This guide is here to help you navigate the options. We'll introduce different materials and features, and present a selection of models to make it easier for you to choose the right food storage containers.

What to Look for When Buying Food Storage Containers

The variety of storage containers is vast. To make the right choice, three criteria are particularly important: the material, the sealing mechanism, and the intended use.

Material: Glass or Plastic?

The decision between glass and plastic depends on your personal priorities.

• Glass Food Storage Containers: Containers made from borosilicate glass are especially versatile. They are oven-safe (usually without the lid), won't absorb odours or stains, and are easy to clean. Since glass is non-porous, the flavour of your food remains pure. They are also a durable option for eco-conscious households.
• Plastic Food Storage Containers: Modern plastic containers are lightweight, shatterproof, and often more budget-friendly. It's crucial to look for the BPA-free label to ensure no harmful plasticizers leach into your food. High-quality plastic is robust and ideal for transport or freezer storage.

Sealing Mechanism: A Tight Seal is Crucial

A good seal is the heart of any food storage container. An airtight lid prevents contact with oxygen, which extends the shelf life of food and preserves flavours. For transporting soups, sauces, or marinated dishes, a leak-proof seal is essential. Systems with silicone gaskets and multi-sided locking clips often offer the highest reliability.

Intended Use: From Meal Prep to Pantry Organisation

Consider what you will primarily use the containers for:

• Meal Prep Containers: Those who meal prep will benefit from containers that are oven-safe and microwave-safe. This allows food to be reheated directly in the container. Being dishwasher-safe also makes cleanup easier.
• Pantry Containers for Dry Goods: For coffee, nuts, cereal, or pasta, stackable containers that protect contents from moisture and pests are ideal. Special vacuum-sealed containers can further extend shelf life by reducing the oxygen level.
• Refrigerator Storage: Transparent containers help you keep track of what's inside. For delicate foods like fruits and vegetables, there are models with special features to regulate the atmosphere inside.

Our Recommended Food Storage Containers

Based on the criteria mentioned, we have compiled a selection of food storage containers that stand out for their specific features and are suited for various applications.

1. LocknLock Oven Glass 630ml

LocknLock Oven Glass 630ml Food Storage Container with Lid

What makes it stand out: This food storage container combines the durability of borosilicate glass with a patented locking system. According to the manufacturer, the glass is heat-resistant up to 400°C (without the lid) and can go directly from the freezer to a preheated oven. The four-sided locking system with a silicone seal ensures a reliably airtight and watertight closure.

Advantages:

• Oven-safe up to 400°C (glass container without lid)
• Airtight and leak-proof thanks to a patented locking system
• Made from borosilicate glass: odour and stain-resistant
• BPA-free, freezer-safe, and dishwasher-safe
• Stackable, space-saving design

Who it's for: Ideal for anyone looking for meal prep containers you can use to cook, bake, store, and serve. Perfect for lasagne, casseroles, or reheating leftovers without transferring.

2. 5five Airtight Vacuum Glass Jar 1L

5five Airtight Vacuum Glass Jar 1L

What makes it stand out: This pantry container features a vacuum pump integrated into the lid. By simply pumping the lid, air is removed from the container, which slows down the oxidation process and extends the freshness of dry goods like coffee beans, nuts, or biscuits. The container itself is made of clear borosilicate glass.

Advantages:

• Integrated vacuum pump in the lid to reduce oxygen
• Extends the shelf life of dry goods
• Transparent glass container for a clear view of the contents
• Easy-to-use vacuum system
• Modern, cylindrical design

Who it's for: A great choice for anyone who stores delicate dry goods and wants to preserve their aroma and crispness for as long as possible.

3. LocknLock Fresh Block Storage Jars (640 ml, Set of 2)

LocknLock Fresh Block Storage Jars with Lids - Set of 2, 640 ml

What makes it stand out: These plastic containers were specially designed for storing fruits and vegetables. According to the manufacturer, the "Breath Care Fresh Solution" absorbs the ripening gas ethylene, which can extend the freshness of fruits and vegetables by up to 31 days. The double-seal closure also protects against odours and bacteria.

Advantages:

• Special feature to absorb ethylene for longer-lasting fresh produce
• BPA-free and antibacterial plastic (according to SGS testing)
• Impact-resistant and thick-walled construction
• Space-saving, modular, and stackable design
• Microwave, freezer, and dishwasher-safe

Who it's for: Recommended for households that regularly buy fresh produce and want to actively combat food waste.

Discover More Options

Every kitchen is different, and food storage needs are diverse. If the models presented here don't exactly match your requirements, there are numerous other options available.

Explore our full range of clear round containers with lids to find the perfect solution for your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between glass and plastic food storage containers?

Glass food storage containers (especially borosilicate glass) are heat-resistant, do not absorb odours or stains, and are considered very hygienic. However, they are heavier and can break if dropped. Plastic containers are lightweight and shatterproof, making them ideal for on-the-go. With plastic, you should look for the BPA-free label. High-quality plastic is durable but can stain over time with strongly coloured foods like tomato sauce.

Are all food storage containers truly airtight and leak-proof?

No, the quality of the seal varies greatly by model and manufacturer. Look for high-quality gaskets, often made of silicone, and a robust locking mechanism. Products explicitly advertised as airtight and leak-proof, which feature patented locking systems (e.g., with four locking clips), generally offer greater reliability for transporting liquids.

Can I put hot food directly into food storage containers?

With glass food storage containers (borosilicate glass), this is usually possible. However, avoid thermal shock by not placing a hot container on a cold, wet surface or rinsing it with cold water. For plastic containers, it is recommended to let food cool slightly before storing to prevent the material from warping. Always follow the manufacturer's specific instructions, especially regarding microwave and oven use.

Written by your Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer