Meal prepping has become a cornerstone of healthy eating for many, including the team at The Real Food Dietitians. With nearly a decade of experience in preparing meals in advance, they've learned the importance of having the right storage containers. This review focuses on Fit & Fresh meal prep containers, alongside other top contenders, offering insights into their features, benefits, and how they stack up against the competition.
The Importance of Quality Meal Prep Containers
When embarking on a meal prep journey, the significance of high-quality storage containers cannot be overstated. These containers are essential for preserving the freshness, flavor, and nutritional value of your prepared meals. The Real Food Dietitians emphasize that the right containers are not merely a matter of convenience but a crucial component of a successful meal prep strategy.
What to Look for in Meal Prep Containers
The Real Food Dietitians, with their extensive experience, have established clear criteria for evaluating meal prep containers. They prioritize containers that are easy to clean, avoiding those that are hand-wash only due to their busy lifestyles as moms. Furthermore, they generally avoid plastic containers due to concerns about the potential release of chemical compounds when exposed to heat during reheating.
Fit & Fresh Meal Prep Containers: An Overview
Fit & Fresh, based in Providence, RI, focuses on creating functional and distinctive styles for adults. Their meal prep containers are designed for everyday use, emphasizing portability and durability.
Key Features of Fit & Fresh Containers
- Attachable Ice Packs: Many Fit & Fresh containers come with slim ice packs that attach to the lids, ensuring meals stay cold for extended periods. These ice packs are easily frozen overnight.
- Portion Control: The containers often feature measurement lines, aiding in precise portioning for snacks and meals.
- Durability: Designed for daily use, these containers are built to withstand the rigors of meal prepping and transportation.
Fit & Fresh vs. Other Top Meal Prep Container Options
While Fit & Fresh offers a range of containers, it's beneficial to compare them to other popular options on the market. Here's how they stack up:
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Glass Containers with Locking Lids
The Real Food Dietitians favor a set of rectangular glass containers with locking lids. These containers, holding a maximum of 30 ounces, are microwave-, dishwasher-, freezer-, and oven-safe. They are particularly suited for single-compartment meals like casseroles, stews, and stir-fries. While the specific brand isn't mentioned, these containers are praised for their compact size and stackability.
Bentgo All-in-One Salad Container
Another favorite is the Bentgo All-in-One Salad Container. This bento box-style container features a large section for salad greens and a divided compartment for toppings and dressing. Its secure lid and various color options make it a popular choice for transporting salads.
Caraway Food Storage Containers
Caraway, known for its nontoxic cookware, offers high-quality food storage containers. These containers are notable for their weight and airtight lids, which utilize air release technology to keep food fresh for longer. The set includes various sizes and a magnetic storage rack. Although an investment, the quality and longevity of these containers make them a worthwhile consideration.
Weck Jars
Weck jars are a versatile option for storing prepped ingredients, sauces, and overnight oats. Available in multiple sizes, they are suitable for both individual portions and larger batches. Snap-on plastic lids offer added convenience. The spoons connect right to the jars by sliding into the attached silicone rings, and the jars are microwave and dishwasher-safe.
Souper Cubes
For freezing individual portions of soups and casseroles, Souper Cubes are an excellent choice. These trays allow you to freeze meals into perfect cubes, making portioning and storage simple.
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Pyrex Glass Meal Prep Containers
For those seeking a single, reliable food storage container, Pyrex glass containers with BPA-free lids are a solid option. Available in 3- and 4-cup sizes, they are ideal for storing cooked grains, chopped vegetables, and other meal components.
Tips for Successful Meal Prepping
With the right containers in hand, it's time to embark on your meal prep journey. The Real Food Dietitians recommend easing into the process. Start by simply writing out your meal plan for the week. Once you're comfortable with that, begin prepping ingredients or full recipes in advance. Weekend mornings or afternoons often provide the best opportunity for fitting in meal prep.
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