9 Safe Non-Toxic Food Storage Picks

We all know that processed foods aren’t the healthiest choice, but did you know that the containers we use to store food can also affect our health?

Plastic containers can leak harmful chemicals like BPAs, phthalates, and microplastics into our food and the environment. Even those labeled “BPA-free” might still be risky.

That’s why we’ve looked for the best non-toxic food storage options. So, what makes a container non-toxic?

First off, it should be completely plastic-free, including the lids! The safest materials are those that don’t release any chemicals, like glass, stainless steel, silicone, and natural waxes.

We’ve used these strict criteria to pick our top nine plastic-free food storage containers. Stay tuned to find out which ones made the cut and why.

Later, we’ll also talk about which “safer” plastics are okay for food use and which ones to avoid. Plus, we’ll share some tips on how to minimize risks when using any plastic containers.

Let’s dive in!

What Makes a Container Non-Toxic? Safety Criteria & How We Chose

Here’s what we look for in plastic-free food storage containers:

• Plastic-Free: We mean 100% plastic-free, including the lid. No BPA-free plastics or any other harmful chemicals like Bisphenols or phthalates.
• Inert Materials: Go for materials like glass, stainless steel, or silicone. These don’t release harmful chemicals or affect the taste of your food.
• Free of Nasty Stuff: We avoid containers with PFAS, lead, cadmium, phthalates, and all Bisphenols. Just like your cookware and dishes, your food storage should be safe too.
• Built to Last: Durability is key, no matter the material. Most of our glass options are borosilicate, which is tougher and more sustainable than regular glass.
• Eco-Friendly: The container should be easy to recycle or compost.
• Responsible Brands: Look for brands that care about the planet and have eco-friendly practices.
• Testing: We thoroughly test the containers—checking for leaks, handling temperature changes, and even leaving food in them for two weeks to make sure they clean up easily.

It’s not just about avoiding plastic. We choose containers that are safe, durable, and good for the environment. With these standards, you can be confident you’re picking the best options for your food storage.

9 Best & Safest Non-Toxic Food Storage Containers: Reviewed

Let’s dive into the best non-toxic food storage containers of 2024 so far. We’ve thoroughly checked each one against our detailed criteria, and all nine have passed with flying colors.

#1: Anyday (Top Pick Overall)

• Materials: Made from frosted borosilicate glass with a lid and an LFGB-certified platinum silicone seal. It’s completely plastic-free.
• Appliances: You can use it in the freezer, microwave, dishwasher, and even in the oven (the bowl can handle up to 500℉, and the lid up to 400℉).
• Origin: US-based company, made in China. Available for shipping to the US, Canada, and Australia.
• Price Range: $35 – $190
• Warranty: Comes with a 2-year warranty.

Pros:

• Even Steaming: Cooks food evenly, so it keeps more of its nutrients.
• Microwave-Friendly: Works well in the microwave, giving consistent results and can handle a variety of dishes.
• Durable & Easy to Clean: Built to last and cleans up easily—no more scrubbing forever!
• Versatile: Great for storing, cooking, and reheating all kinds of food.

Cons:

• Steam Vent Knob: Sometimes the steam vent knob can leak hot steam, so be cautious.
• Heat: The container can get quite hot, so use oven mitts when handling it.
• Size Confusion: The containers might seem smaller than they look in the pictures.

I’m really impressed with Anyday’s products. They do a fantastic job of reheating leftovers and cooking meals from scratch in the microwave. For example, I cooked raw chicken in one of their bowls, and it was perfectly done in just eight minutes!

Their dome-shaped borosilicate glass bowls and silicone-sealed lids work together to create a tight seal that circulates steam, keeping the food’s flavor and preventing it from drying out.

What I love most is the lid’s push-button knob, which ensures a completely leak-proof seal—perfect for taking meals on the go. I even did an “upside down” test to check, and it passed with flying colors. Given its versatility and durability, Anyday is definitely my top choice. While the stainless steel options are more durable for transport, these glass bowls are microwave-safe!

The 2-pack Starter Set from Anyday, which includes both a large shallow and a deep dish, is great for chicken, pasta, and more. Their Everyday and Complete sets offer even more storage options.

On top of that, Anyday’s support for causes like The Lee Initiative and Baby2Baby shows they care about social issues. Plus, their use of glass—an eco-friendly and recyclable material—proves they’re committed to sustainability.

#2: U-Konserve

• Materials: 18/8 stainless steel body; clear LFGB-certified silicone lid. 100% plastic-free.
• Appliances: Works in the fridge, freezer, and dishwasher, and is oven-safe up to 300℉ (containers only). Not microwave-safe, but U-Konserve’s Bounce Box is.
• Made in: China. Ships to all US states (free shipping on orders over $49) and select international locations.
• Price range: $11 – $100+
• Warranty: 1 year

Pros:

• Sturdy yet surprisingly lightweight stainless steel that lasts a long time.
• No plastic parts, so you avoid waste and chemical leaching.
• Fits well in the fridge and bags, and is dishwasher safe.
• Clear silicone lids let you see what’s inside without opening the container.

Cons:

• Sometimes the silicone lids pop off in the fridge.
• The containers might be smaller than you expect.

U-Konserve almost didn’t make my list because I’ve been loyal to another brand for years. Both brands offer similar materials and quality, with sturdy, non-toxic 18/8 stainless steel and leak-resistant silicone lids.

But I’m glad I gave U-Konserve a try because they have three standout features:

1. Clear silicone lids: They’re the only brand with clear lids, so you can easily see inside. They also offer teal and blue lids to help you keep track of different lunches.
2. Tare weight markings: Each container has etched tare weights, which is handy for bulk shoppers. They come in sizes ranging from 5oz to 50oz and in various designs like standard, divided, or nesting.
3. Eco-conscious commitment: U-Konserve doesn’t just use recyclable materials; they’re also a Certified B-Corp and donate 5% of sales to environmental charities, making them a great eco-friendly choice.

#3: Caraway

• Materials: Tempered glass body with ceramic-coated non-stick surface and silicone-sealed lids. 100% plastic-free.
• Appliances: Safe for freezer, microwave, and oven up to 450ºF (but not the lids or inserts).
• Pictured set includes: 1 large, 2 medium, 2 small, 2 Dots (0.5-cup), 2 Dash (1.1-cup), and 2 straps.
• Made in: China. Ships to the US, Canada, UK, EU, and Australia.
• Price range: $35 – $245
• Warranty: 1 year

Pros:

• High-quality glass with a non-stick ceramic coating makes cleaning a breeze.
• Stylish design and colors, plus packaging that’s perfect for gifts.
• No plastic parts, which means less chemical leaching and environmental impact.
• Comes with handy storage racks and is dishwasher safe, making meal prep easy.

Cons:

• Heavier weight may not be ideal if you have joint issues or limited storage space.
• Not completely leak-proof, so they’re not the best choice for soups or other liquids.
• Requires careful handling to avoid damaging the coating (no metal utensils or abrasives!).
• Lids can be a bit tricky to remove.

Caraway’s non-toxic storage containers stand out with their easy non-stick cleanup—no harmful PFAS coatings here. I tested their non-stick claim by leaving food in one for two weeks (yep, gross), and cleaning was a breeze with just soap and a sponge. Even if scratched or overheated, these containers don’t leach chemicals. The glass lids have Air Release Tech to keep your food fresh.

What’s really cool? You can use these containers as on-the-go bento boxes. The included Dot & Dash inserts and straps make it super simple. Plus, Caraway offers six color options and a unique storage rack for easy organization.

Caraway also cares about the environment. They use recyclable glass and PFAS-free coatings, and their products ship without plastic.

Just a heads-up: these containers aren’t 100% leak-proof. If you need leak-proof options, check out Anyday (#1), U-Konserve (#2), or Pyrex (#5).

#4: Zip Top

• Materials: LFGB-certified silicone. 100% plastic-free.
• Appliances: Safe for freezer, microwave, and dishwasher.
• Made in: USA. Ships to all US states and Canada.
• Price range: $9.99 to $100

Pros:

• Cuts down on waste by replacing single-use plastic bags.
• Stand-up design makes it easy to fill and eat straight from the bag. Plus, it’s dishwasher-safe for simple cleaning.
• Great for meal prep: store dry snacks, freeze grains, or reheat leftovers.
• Sturdy build ensures a secure seal for dry foods.

Cons:

• Not completely airtight or leak-proof, so it’s better for dry foods.
• Strong-smelling foods might leave a lingering scent or stain. Boiling the bag for 15 minutes can help.
• Can be tricky to seal properly if you’re not careful.

Zip Top offers a fantastic plastic-free alternative to Ziploc bags, made entirely from LFGB-certified silicone. They help cut down on plastic waste without leaching chemicals into your food.

What sets Zip Top apart? Their one-piece design is super durable. While they’re not 100% leak-proof, I prefer them to the plastic sliders you find on most brands. Thicker liquids like gravy generally stay put, but things like tomato soup might still leak a bit.

The upright design is a game-changer for me. It saves space in the fridge and makes snacking on the go easy—trail mix from my cup holder during hikes is my go-to!

But what really sold me? Zip Top is the only company making their bags in the US, and they offer a range of colors and sizes, including unique silicone “Dish” and “Cup” sets. Plus, their 100% recyclable packaging shows they’re serious about being eco-friendly.

#5: Pyrex Ultimate

Materials: Tempered glass body with leak-proof silicone rims. 100% plastic-free.
Appliances: Safe for microwave, freezer, dishwasher, and oven (including the lids).
Set includes: Five versatile sizes: 16oz, 24oz, 32oz, 48oz, and 56oz.
Made in: USA for the containers; China for the lids. Ships worldwide.
Price: $79.99 for the Ultimate Set (shown)
Warranty: 2 years

Pros:

• Clear glass design lets you easily see what’s inside, and the silicone rim fits smoothly with the glass lid.
• Glass and silicone are great alternatives to plastic, free from harmful chemicals.
• Works for refrigeration, freezing, microwave heating, and oven use.
• Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.

Cons:

• Lids can take up space inside, so you might have less storage room than expected.
• Some reports of broken containers due to poor packaging upon arrival.

The Pyrex Ultimate set is impressive with its all-glass design and silicone lids. The silicone rims make the containers airtight and leak-proof, offering a healthier and eco-friendly option compared to plastic.

Although Pyrex has switched from borosilicate to soda-lime glass, I’ve found their tempered glass to be just as reliable. In all my years using Pyrex, I’ve never had a container break from temperature changes—just be sure not to put cold glass into a hot oven.

Plus, Pyrex, through its parent company Instant Brands, does more than just offer non-toxic food storage. They also support important humanitarian efforts and aim for sustainable practices.

#6: Seed & Sprout (Plastic-Free Shop)

• Materials: Borosilicate glass body; lid with LFGB-certified silicone rims. 100% plastic-free.
• Appliances: Safe for microwave, freezer, dishwasher, and oven (including the lids). Note: S&S silicone bags are not oven-safe.
• Set shown: Round Glass Eco Stow in Praline.
• Made in: Australia, Taiwan, China, and India. Ships worldwide.
• Price: $63 for the set shown; S&S food storage starts at $9.

Pros:

• Durable glass containers great for the fridge, freezer, and oven.
• Perfect for meal prep, leftovers, and batch cooking. They stack neatly for easy storage.
• Attractive design.
• Excellent customer service.

Cons:

• Lids can sometimes have trouble sealing properly, so you might need bands to keep them tight.
• Not completely airtight or leak-proof, so they’re best for dry foods or non-liquid leftovers.

Seed & Sprout is a fantastic brand that’s completely plastic-free, offering everything from eco-friendly food storage to camping gear.

Their Eco Stow containers are a standout. Made from borosilicate glass with silicone rims, these are not just safe and recyclable, but also more durable than regular glass. That means they’re even better for the environment.

Each lid has an adjustable air vent—open it for reheating or close it to keep food fresh. They’re not ideal for soups, but they handle thicker sauces without a hitch.

With various sizes and silicone rim colors like Oatmilk and Praline, choosing your style is a breeze. Plus, S&S is committed to environmental responsibility. Their zero-emissions headquarters and Silicone Take-Back program mean your purchase supports a good cause.

#7: Life Without Plastic (Plastic-Free Shop)

• Materials: Borosilicate glass body, bamboo lid, and FDA-certified silicone seal. For the stainless steel versions: 18/8 stainless steel with an FDA silicone lid seal. 100% plastic-free.
• Appliances: Freezer, microwave, dishwasher, and oven-safe (containers only—bamboo lid isn’t oven-safe). Stainless steel versions are freezer, dishwasher, and oven-safe (without silicone seal).
• Made in: India and China. Ships globally.
• Price range: $10 to $123
• Warranty: 1 year

Pros:

• The divided container is perfect for meal prepping.
• Bamboo lid is sustainable and less likely to warp compared to wood.

Cons:

• Limited options for food storage.
• Not leak-proof without the included security band, which can be a hassle if it gets lost.

Life Without Plastic offers another great plastic-free option. Their divided glass container is fantastic for meal prepping. It’s made from sturdy borosilicate glass, which is more durable and sustainable than regular glass.

I love the bamboo lids for their water resistance and eco-friendliness. Bamboo grows faster than wood, making these lids a better choice for the environment.

The silicone seal and security bands help keep your food from leaking while you’re on the go. Just remember, the glass container can break if dropped. If you need something tougher for travel, check out their 54oz all-stainless container, which is leak-proof and more rugged. The stainless steel version with dividers is great for organized meal prep.

Plus, LWP’s commitment to sustainability shines through with their plastic-free packaging and ethical sourcing. Their Green America certification shows they take their eco-friendly mission seriously, making them a solid choice all around.

#8: Kilner Jars

• Materials: Borosilicate glass with a silicone lid seal. 100% plastic-free.
• Appliances: Safe for the freezer, oven, dishwasher, and microwave.
• Based in: The UK, made in China. Ships to the US and the UK.
• Price range: $30 to $65
• Refund window: 14 days

Pros:

• The clasp mechanism with a leak-proof silicone seal keeps food fresh and completely plastic-free.
• Great for various uses like meal prep, storing leftovers, and canning.
• Classic design with thick, high-quality glass that’s both durable and easy to see through.

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with the clasp mechanism breaking after a few months, suggesting a drop in quality.
• A few jars arrive damaged, possibly due to poor packaging.
• Customer service might not always be up to par.

Kilner jars are my top choice for keeping mixed nuts fresh. Since 1842, Kilner has been a leader in food preservation and sustainability, thanks to their tough glass, patented vacuum seal system, and classic design.

These jars are made from borosilicate glass, which is more durable and eco-friendly than regular glass. It lasts longer and is infinitely recyclable, helping to reduce environmental impact.

Kilner’s vacuum seal system is key to keeping food fresh and cutting down on waste.

But Kilner doesn’t just stop at canning jars. They also offer clip-top oil bottles and small spice jars. Their 68 oz clip-top jars are perfect for storing larger items like vegetables, cereal, and pasta.

#9: Bee’s Wraps

• Beeswax Wraps: Made from organic cotton, beeswax, organic plant oil, and tree resin.
• Vegan Wraps: Made from organic cotton, candelilla wax (instead of beeswax), soy wax, organic coconut oil, and tree resin.
• 100% Plastic-free.
• Appliances: Safe for the fridge and freezer (just make sure to wrap food completely to prevent freezer burn).
• Made in: The USA. Ships worldwide.
• Price range: $5.99 to $99
• Warranty: 30 days

Pros:

• A reusable and eco-friendly alternative to plastic wraps.
• Flexible design molds easily around different foods and covers bowls well.
• Easy to clean with cold water and mild soap, and they dry quickly for reuse.
• They look nice and have a subtle, honey-like scent.

Cons:

• The beeswax coating can break down if not washed carefully, so use cold water and be gentle!
• They might not last a full 12 months, even with proper care.
• Tree resins used might trigger allergies, so if you’re allergic, you might want to avoid these wraps.

Bee’s Wraps are a fantastic choice for non-toxic food storage. These wraps, made in the USA, are a 100% plastic-free alternative to plastic wrap.

With just the warmth of your hands, these wraps create a breathable seal around your food, keeping it fresh longer than plastic. They’re reusable for up to a year, which helps reduce plastic waste—one pack can save you from using 1,667 sq. feet of plastic per year. After a year, they compost naturally, or if you’re a camper like me, they can be used as excellent fire starters!

I suggest starting with the assorted 3-pack (one large, medium, and small), then get more of your favorite size. They also offer bread wraps, DIY roll wraps, and wax food storage bags—perfect for lettuce and other veggies.

Bee’s Wraps is also committed to sustainability. They’re a certified B-Corp and a member of 1% for the Planet, meaning they’re actively working to reduce pollution and support the environment.

Also Read: Comparing Eco-Friendly Plastic Straws

Four Safest Food Storage Container Materials: Explained

1. Glass: The Clean Champion
   Superpower: Glass doesn’t stain or react with food, even with acidic stuff. It’s great for all kinds of food storage.
   Microwave & Dishwasher Safe
   Eco-Friendly: Glass can be recycled endlessly, which is great for the planet.
   Bonus: For oven baking, go for “borosilicate” glass—it’s extra tough.
2. Stainless Steel: The Tough Titan
   Superpower: Stainless steel resists rust and doesn’t leach chemicals, even with acidic or fatty foods. If you’re allergic to chromium or nickel, though, you might want to skip stainless steel cookware.
   Easy to Clean & Dishwasher-Safe
   Versatile: Works well for fridge storage or oven reheating without the risk of thermal shock.
   Bonus: Opt for 18/8 (304-grade) stainless steel for top-notch corrosion resistance.
3. Silicone: The Flexible Friend
   Superpower: Durable, eco-friendly, and heat-resistant. It’s microwave and dishwasher-safe.
   Lightweight & Shatterproof
   Bonus: Choose FDA-approved or LFGB-certified silicone for safety. If any oily residue remains after washing, just boil it for 15 minutes to clean it up.
4. Wax Food Wraps: The Eco-Hero
   Superpower: Made from organic cotton and beeswax (or plant-based waxes for vegans), these wraps are a sustainable and plastic-free alternative to Saran wrap.
   Reusable & Compostable: Use them for up to a year, then compost them.
   Bonus: Use the warmth of your hands to soften the wax and seal it around food, bowls, or containers.

Why You Should Avoid Plastic Food Containers: Health & Environmental Risks

Key Takeaways:

• Plastic Container Risks: Plastics can release harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates, especially when heated. These chemicals can mess with your hormones and may lead to health issues such as developmental problems and heart disease. Plus, plastic is bad for the environment because it leaks chemicals and microplastics. Even BPA-free plastics might not be as safe as you think.
• Choose Safer Alternatives: Go for materials like glass, stainless steel, silicone, and wax. These are healthier options, eco-friendly, and don’t have the problems plastic does, like lingering smells and stains.

The Details: Plastic containers can be problematic, especially when they’re old or heated. They can release harmful substances like BPA and phthalates, especially when storing and reheating acidic foods.

BPA is found in polycarbonates, which are clear, hard plastics used for things like reusable water bottles. Phthalates, which make plastics flexible, are usually in PVC. Unless a plastic is labeled as phthalate-free, it’s best to assume it contains them.

These chemicals can seriously impact health, causing issues like ADHD in children, heart problems, and obesity. Even “BPA-free” plastics might contain other harmful chemicals like BPS or BPF, which have similar risks.

The environmental impact is also a big deal. Plastic can stick around for centuries, polluting the planet and harming marine life. It releases microplastics and other pollutants into the soil and water.

So, it’s smart to choose alternatives like glass, stainless steel, silicone, and wax. They’re not only better for your health but also kinder to the environment. Plus, they don’t stain or hold onto odors like plastic does.