Camille Moore
Meal prep is gaining popularity as an efficient and healthy way to balance our busy lives. Preparing meals in advance not only saves time, it may save money, and make it easier to stick to a healthy eating plan. A critical component of successful meal prep are the containers used for storing and reheating the meals. Microwave safe meal prep containers are designed for convenience in preparing, storing, and reheating our meals without the need for multiple dishes or transferring food. If you want to store more food items in your pantry, you may also invest in a 5 Gallon Plastic Bucket and other food storage containers.
Microwave safe meal prep containers are made from a variety of materials, including plastic, glass, and silicone. They come in different shapes and sizes to accommodate various types of meals, and often stack or nest for easy storage. The ideal container will not only be microwave safe, but also durable, leak-proof, and easy to clean.
When choosing microwave safe meal prep containers, the key factors to consider are the materials used, size, weight, ease of use, and whether they contain any harmful chemicals. It’s essential to ensure the material is toxic-free and doesn’t release harmful substances when heated in the microwave.
After exploring various options and testing their durability, usability, and safety, we’ve narrowed down the best microwave safe meal prep containers that will make your meal preparation experience stress-free and enjoyable. So, let’s dive into our findings and help you make an informed decision.
Best Microwave Safe Meal Prep Containers
We have compiled a list of the best microwave safe meal prep containers for your convenience. These will make your meal planning and reheating easy and efficient.
Bentgo Prep 1-Compartment Meal-Prep Containers
These Bentgo meal prep containers are an excellent choice for portion control and convenient meal preparation.
Pros
- Microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe
- Embossed portion measurements
- Supports a charitable cause
Cons
- Single-compartment design
- Lightweight material
- Lids not microwaveable
We recently tried out the Bentgo Prep 1-Compartment Meal-Prep Containers, and they made our meal planning a breeze. The containers are designed with practicality and convenience in mind. They are microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe, which makes it easy to prepare, store, and reheat meals.
One helpful feature of these containers is the volume embossing on the tray, eliminating the need to measure portions. This makes it simple to keep track of our serving sizes and helps us stay mindful of our nutrition.
Bentgo is a company that supports a charitable cause. Since 2017, they have donated more than $300,000 to Feed the Children, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting hunger. Purchasing Bentgo products allows us to contribute to a company that cares about giving back.
The only downside to these containers is their single-compartment design. If you prefer to separate various types of food, this might not be the best option for you. Additionally, the lightweight material might feel less sturdy than some other meal prep containers, but we haven’t encountered any issues with durability.
Lastly, it’s important to note that the custom-fit lids are not microwaveable, which isn’t a significant issue for us since they can be removed during reheating. Overall, we highly recommend these containers for their practicality, portion control, and support of a great cause.
Bentgo Prep 3-Compartment Meal-Prep Containers
We highly recommend these containers for simplifying your meal prep, ensuring portion control, and keeping your food fresh.
Pros
- Trays and lids are easy to stack and microwaveable
- Embossed volume on trays for perfect portion control
- Custom-fit lids for great freshness during storage and transport
Cons
- Lids may not completely separate the sections
- Not the most compact for smaller bags
- Might require extra care during transportation
Our experience with the Bentgo Prep 3-Compartment Meal-Prep Containers has been mostly positive. One of the major benefits has been how these containers simplify meal prepping with their microwaveable trays and lids that nest together neatly. This feature made it a breeze to heat and transport our food without having to worry about messy spills or leaks.
In terms of portion control, the embossed volume on the trays was a great help. We no longer needed to measure our food, as the correct portion size was already indicated on the container itself. This helped us stay consistent with our meal plans and maintain a balanced diet.
However, we did notice that the lids may not completely separate the sections, which could be an issue if you’re trying to keep different food items from mixing. Additionally, while they’re designed to be stackable, they’re not the most compact containers for smaller bags, so be mindful if you have limited space.
Lastly, be prepared to take extra care when transporting these containers, as they might require some reinforcement or cushioning to ensure they stay intact during commutes.
Overall, the Bentgo Prep 3-Compartment Meal-Prep Containers are a convenient and effective solution for anyone looking to simplify their meal prep and portion control. Aside from a few minor drawbacks, these containers have proven to be a valuable addition to our meal planning routine.
Freshware Meal Prep Containers
These Freshware meal prep containers are a durable and convenient option for those looking to make, store, and reheat meals at home or on-the-go.
Pros
- Spacious 28 oz. single compartment
- BPA, PVC, and Phthalate free Polypropylene material
- Microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe
Cons
- Some containers may arrive cracked or damaged
- Lids may not be completely leak-proof
- Color of the containers might not be suitable for all
Taking the plunge and investing in a set of Freshware Meal Prep Containers was one of the best decisions we’ve made for our meal planning routine. With a generous 28 oz. capacity, the single compartment makes packing and storing different types of meals a breeze. Not to mention, we love that the material is 100% food-safe, free of BPA, PVC and Phthalate— ensuring we’re making the healthiest choice for our meal storage.
Over time, we’ve found these containers to be incredibly sturdy and have no trouble handling the typical wear and tear of daily use. The fact that they’re microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe is a massive convenience, especially when it comes to reheating leftovers, cleaning up, or prepping meals in advance.
However, it’s worth noting that a few users have reported receiving damaged containers with cracked or broken corners. Additionally, while the lids generally stay sealed, they might not be entirely leak-proof, so be mindful when packing liquids. Lastly, some might not appreciate the container color; however, we found it did not affect the overall experience.
In conclusion, the Freshware Meal Prep Containers are a solid option for creating, storing and reheating homemade meals. With their spacious size, safe material, and ability to withstand various temperatures, you can trust these containers to support your meal planning endeavors effectively. Just keep in mind the potential drawbacks before making your decision.
M MCIRCO Glass Meal Prep Containers
These glass meal prep containers are a great investment for those who prioritize health, portion control, and durability in their food storage.
Pros
- High-quality borosilicate glass
- Airtight smart-locking lids
- Convenient portion control feature
Cons
- Lids not oven safe
- May not stack easily
- No batteries included
We recently tried out the M MCIRCO Glass Meal Prep Containers and we were impressed by their overall quality and functionality. The borosilicate glass material used feels more durable than competing products, and we didn’t notice any staining or lingering smells after using them for various meals.
The airtight smart-locking lids were easy to open and close, ensuring no leaks during transportation. This feature was quite helpful with keeping our meals fresh throughout the day. However, remember to remove the lids before microwaving or using in the oven, as this helps with maintenance and longevity of the product.
What really caught our attention was the portion control feature within the meal prep containers. The compartments helped us keep track of our meal portions easily, preventing overeating and supporting healthier eating habits. It made meal prepping a breeze and saved us time and effort when organizing our lunches for work or travel.
One downside we noticed was the lack of oven and microwave safety for the lids, and the containers were not very stackable. Additionally, the product requires batteries but does not include them.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality glass meal prep container that promotes portion control and airtight storage, the M MCIRCO Glass Meal Prep Containers are worth considering.
Bentgo Prep 2-Compartment Meal-Prep Containers
These Bentgo meal prep containers are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to simplify their meal planning, with durability and convenience in mind.
Pros
- Easy meal-prep with microwaveable, durable, and reusable design
- Embossed portions for hassle-free portion control
- Custom-fit lids to seal in freshness and prevent leaks
Cons
- Lids may be difficult to open at times
- Containers can be damaged if exposed to high heat (e.g., stove)
- Potential for minor leakage with oily or liquid-based items
We recently used the Bentgo Prep 2-Compartment Meal-Prep Containers, and they made our meal planning so much easier. The portion-perfect design allowed us to gauge the right amounts of food, without the need for any further measuring. The microwaveable, freezer, and dishwasher-safe construction meant that we could heat our meals straight from the fridge, eat, and clean up with minimal fuss.
The custom-fit lids ensured our meals remained fresh while preventing mix-ups during storage or transportation. We could even stack the containers neatly, saving precious fridge space. Not to mention, the blush pink color added a stylish touch to our meal prep routine.
However, it’s worth noting that the lids can be a bit tricky to open initially, so be prepared to use a little force when needed. Additionally, make sure not to place the containers too close to high-heat sources, as they can become damaged or misshapen. Also, leaking might occur if the containers are filled with particularly oily or liquid-based meals. Despite these minor drawbacks, these Bentgo containers still provide an excellent solution for those looking to make their meal planning more efficient and visually appealing.
Buying Guide
When looking for microwave-safe meal prep containers, there are several features to consider. In this buying guide, we’ll discuss what to look for to find the best product for your needs.
Materials
First, let’s talk about materials. There are a few types of materials commonly used for meal prep containers:
- Plastic: Lightweight and affordable, but make sure it’s BPA-free and microwavable.
- Glass: A more eco-friendly option, it’s durable and doesn’t absorb odors or stain. However, it’s heavier and tends to be more expensive.
- Silicone: Microwave and oven-safe, collapsible for easy storage, and usually BPA-free.
Size and Capacity
Consider the size and capacity of the containers:
- Single compartment: Ideal for simple meals or individual foods.
- Multiple compartments: Convenient when separating different dishes, keeping flavors from mixing.
To choose the right capacity, think about your meal planning practices:
- Small containers (1-2 cups): Perfect for individual portions of fruits, vegetables, or snacks.
- Medium containers (3-4 cups): Suitable for single-serving meals like pasta or salads.
- Large containers (5 cups or more): Ideal for larger or family-sized meals.
Lid Type
Lids play a crucial role in preserving food quality:
- Screw-on lids: Provide a tight seal but may be bulkier.
- Snap-on lids: Offer an easy-to-use option, but the seal may weaken over time.
- Silicone lids: Environmentally friendly and able to stretch over various container shapes.
Leak-Proof and Airtight Seals
A quality container should have a leak-proof, airtight seal. This helps keep your food fresh and prevents spills during transportation.
Freeze, Microwave, Dishwasher Safe
Make sure the containers are suitable for use in the freezer, microwave, and dishwasher. This ensures you can easily store, reheat, and clean them.
Reusable and Stackable Design
Choose containers that are reusable and have a stackable design. This will help you save space in your kitchen and promote a more sustainable lifestyle.
By considering these key features, you’ll find the best microwave-safe meal prep containers that fit your needs and preferences.
Comments
Loading…