Top 11 Meal Prep Containers Experts Swear By

Meal prepping revolutionizes the way you eat by providing ready-to-eat meals and snacks at your fingertips. According to nutrition experts like Lisa Young from NYU, having pre-made food eliminates the need to cook every day, saving you time and effort. By preparing multiple servings at once, you can maintain a healthy diet effortlessly. All it takes is a bit of planning and the right containers to store your delicious creations.

When selecting meal prep containers, there are several important factors to consider. First, choose containers that are BPA-free, ensuring your food stays safe and free from harmful chemicals. It's also crucial to select containers that are microwave, freezer, and dishwasher-safe for easy reheating and cleaning. Additionally, consider the size and style of the containers to match your meal planning needs, whether you prefer single compartments or multiple sections to keep your dishes separated.

Compartmented containers are perfect for portioning different parts of your meal, keeping foods fresh and preventing mixing. Products like the Bentgo Prep collection offer colorful, stackable containers with up to three compartments, ideal for building balanced meals. Sistema’s multi-compartment containers are another great option, featuring leak-proof lids that ensure your meals stay intact during storage. These versatile containers make it easy to pack a variety of foods in one convenient package.

Single compartment containers are ideal for those who prefer to keep their meals simple or for dishes that don’t need separation. Pyrex’s Freshlock collection offers glass containers with airtight seals and built-in labels, making it easy to identify and reuse them. OXO’s leak-proof glass containers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, ensuring you have the right fit for any meal. These sturdy containers are perfect for storing larger portions or meals that are meant to be served as a whole.

For lighter meals and snacks, smaller containers like Ball Mason jars and Stasher silicone bags are excellent choices. Mason jars are perfect for storing salads, overnight oats, or parfaits, while Stasher bags are great for on-the-go snacks due to their space-saving design. Rubbermaid’s small stackable containers are also a convenient option for storing nuts, dried fruits, or dressings, keeping everything organized and easily accessible throughout the week.

The material of your meal prep containers plays a significant role in their functionality and durability. Glass containers are versatile and safe for oven use, but they can be fragile when transporting. Plastic containers are durable and lightweight, making them ideal for taking meals on the go, though they may not always be microwave-safe. Silicone options offer flexibility and space-saving benefits, while stainless steel containers provide durability without the need for reheating. Select the material that best fits your lifestyle and meal prep routine.

Selecting the right meal prep containers is essential for maintaining an organized and efficient meal planning system. By considering factors such as material, size, and compartmentalization, you can choose containers that best suit your needs and preferences. Whether you opt for glass, plastic, silicone, or stainless steel, having the proper storage solutions will make meal prepping a breeze. Embrace the convenience and health benefits of meal prepping to enjoy delicious, homemade meals all week long.