The right container could massively improve food freshness, flavor, and even safety when it comes to food storage. Though many homes turn to plastic containers because of their convenience and economic cost, some foods should never be stored in them.
Here are six foods not to store in plastic containers and healthier alternatives to preserve your meals and keep them safe.
Tomatoes
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Tomatoes are a staple in many kitchens, but storing them in plastic containers can lead to a loss of flavor and texture. The acidity in tomatoes can react with plastic, causing harmful chemicals to leach into the fruit. Store tomatoes at room temperature in a breathable container, such as a bowl or a paper bag. This allows for proper air circulation, helping to maintain their flavor and firmness.
Honey
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Honey is an all-natural preservative that lasts virtually forever. Honey stored in plastic can lose its quality over time. Plastic can also absorb moisture and odors, which can affect the taste of honey and decrease the health benefits it provides. Opt for glass jars or ceramic containers for storing honey. These materials are non-reactive and will keep your honey pure and flavorful. Glass also prevents moisture absorption, ensuring that your honey remains thick and sweet.
Oils
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Some oils, particularly olive oil and nut oils, are sensitive to light and heat. Storing them in clear plastic containers can expose them to harmful UV rays, leading to rancidity. Choose dark glass bottles or stainless steel containers for oil storage. Dark glass protects oils from light, while stainless steel is sturdy and non-reactive. Make sure to store oils in a cool, dark place to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Berries
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Berries are delicious and packed with nutrients, but they are also highly perishable. Storing them in plastic containers can trap moisture, leading to mold growth and spoilage.
The plastic can also alter the taste of the berries over time. Use breathable containers like cardboard boxes or glass containers with ventilation. If you have purchased berries in plastic clamshells, it’s best to wash them, dry them, and transfer them to a different container.
Leafy Greens
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Vegetables like spinach, kale, and lettuce are usually stored in plastic containers and are ruined by wilting and spoiling while being stored. Plastic can hold moisture, so greens can wilt and lose crispness.
Wrap greens in a damp paper towel, and store them in a perforated plastic bag or breathable container. This technique helps the leafy greens retain moisture but also allows for the flow of air.
Cheese
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Cheese is a beloved ingredient in many dishes, but improper storage can affect its texture and flavor. Plastic containers can cause cheese to sweat and become rubbery, while also allowing it to absorb odors from other foods.
Wrap cheese in parchment paper or wax paper and then place it in a breathable container, such as a cheese dome or a glass container with a loose lid. For softer cheeses, consider using a specialized cheese storage bag that regulates humidity.
12 Foods to Never Eat After They Expire (Throw Them Away Immediately)
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The “Sell by” date on food packaging tells how long the food can stay on shelves, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that’s when it expires. On the other hand, the “Best by” or “Use by” date is something to really pay attention to.
Some foods can be fine well past that date, but others don’t, and consuming them can lead to food poisoning, a trip to the hospital, or worse. Following are some foods you should never consume after they expire.
12 Foods To NEVER Eat After They Expire (Throw Them Away Immediately)
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