Meal Prep Containers: 8 Best Options for Portion Control and Meal Planning

Meal planning has revolutionized how people manage their hectic schedules and maintain a balanced diet. Prepping meals allows you to make more thoughtful eating choices, save time, and reduce food waste. Portion control is essential to losing weight, building muscle, or eating healthily.

Your choice of meal prep containers affects the freshness, organization, and proper portioning of your meals. Using high-quality containers, you can monitor your caloric intake, store meals securely, and preserve food quality all week.

Several solutions are available to meet your needs, ranging from glass containers that are safe to use in the microwave to environmentally friendly stainless steel options.

This article examines eight top meal prep containers that can help you achieve your health objectives and simplify meal planning.

Read More: Simple Meal Prep Tips for Sustainable Weight Loss

Benefits of Meal Prep Containers

There are several advantages to meal prep containers that make leading a healthy lifestyle more convenient and easy.

Preparing your meals in advance in containers can help you save time, money, and food waste while improving your enjoyment. By providing your family with prepared meals ready to eat or reheat, you can provide them with a quick and nutritious choice that suits their dietary needs and lifestyle.

Organizing your meals in advance and cooking in large quantities can maximize your time, cut grocery expenses, limit inventory, and prevent food spoiling.

Using meal prep containers allows for accurate portion control and measurement. This is very helpful for those tracking calories or adhering to particular diet regimens. Portion control guarantees balanced meals and helps avoid overindulging.

Controlling portion sizes and refraining from rash eating decisions can support your weight management objectives. Preparing nutritious, well-balanced meals ahead of time promotes healthy eating habits.

Types of Meal Prep Containers

Depending on the kind of food you prepare, the size of your portions, and the demands of your family, you can use a variety of meal prep containers. Below are a few of the more typical ones:

Glass Containers: Glass containers are BPA-free, eco-friendly, dishwasher-safe, oven-safe, microwave-safe, freezer-safe, and long-lasting. They are perfect for keeping cold or hot foods that need to be frozen or reheated. They also let you see the contents and provide a sophisticated, polished appearance. However, in comparison to other materials, glass containers are also costly, heavy, and brittle.

Plastic Containers: BPA-free, stackable, lightweight, and portable plastic containers are also reasonably priced. They work well for keeping cold or room-temperature items that don’t require freezing or reheating. Additionally, they are available in various sizes, styles, colors, and designs to suit your demands. In contrast to other materials, plastic containers are not always eco-friendly, microwave-safe, or oven-safe. Additionally, with continuous usage or time, they may warp or discolor.

Stainless Steel Containers: These containers are strong, corrosion-resistant, environmentally benign, and BPA-free. They work well for keeping cold or room-temperature items that don’t require freezing or reheating. Additionally, they look sleek and contemporary. In contrast to other materials, stainless steel containers are not leak-proof, freezer-safe, microwave-safe, or oven-safe. Additionally, they could scratch or dent quickly or after frequent use.

Silicone Trays: These are easy to remove, flexible, portion-controlled, and freezer-safe. They work well for freezing smoothies, soups, sauces, muffins, and other items in separate portions or forms. Additionally, they are available in various hues and patterns that can enhance the charm and excitement of your meals. However, unlike other materials, silicone trays are not leak-proof, dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe, or oven-safe (unless otherwise noted). Additionally, with frequent usage or time, they could hold onto flavors or scents.

Read More: Meal Prep Mastery: A Week’s Worth of Healthy Lunch Ideas

Review of the Top 8 Meal Prep Containers

Choosing the appropriate meal prep containers is essential for efficient meal planning and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The eight best meal prep containers are listed here, with various styles to suit different tastes and requirements.

1. PrepNaturals 5 Pack Glass Meal Prep Containers

Anyone who prefers home cooking to fast food, whether to save time or money, will find the PrepNaturals glass food storage container set ideal. These glass containers are easy to use and long-lasting, encouraging you to cook at home and consume healthier foods.

Pack a lunchbox full of homemade meals for the entire family to take to the gym or workplace. You can prepare food directly in the containers, store leftovers, and reheat them later.

The containers are more substantial than other, less expensive ones because they contain borosilicate glass. Borosilicate is the strongest glass on the market, and it is also oven-safe and less likely to break than cheaper options.

This thermo-resistant set of glass food containers is oven, dishwasher, freezer, and microwave-safe. It makes preparing, freezing, or reheating meals in the oven easy! PrepNaturals oven-safe glass containers with lids are made to endure temperatures as high as 840F and are simple to use.

Pros:

Keeps food fresh and free from contaminants​

Easy to clean​

Suitable for various meal types

Cons:

Heavier than plastic alternatives​

Lids may wear over time​

Tips for Effective Meal Prep

2. Dealusy Store Meal Prep Containers Reusable with Lids

Dealusy meal prep containers with sturdy, high-quality plastic lids guarantee that your take-out meals won’t crack. Additionally, they are readily cleaned for reuse using a hand wash or the dishwasher’s top rack.

Because these food prep containers have tightly sealed lids, you can stack them with ease and don’t have to worry about spills or leaks. These BPA-free disposable food containers are made of high-quality food-grade plastic and are entirely freezer—and microwave-safe. They can withstand temperatures ranging from 40°F to 250°F.

These disposable food containers have a preset volume, making it simple to pack fruits, veggies, and nutritious meals without measuring portions. They are excellent for eating out at work, school, the gym, or on a camping vacation.

Pros:

Large quantities suitable for extensive meal prep​

Versatile temperature resistance​

Affordable​

Cons:

Not as durable as glass options​

May stain with certain foods

Read More: Mastering the Aisles: Your Guide to Healthy Choices at the Grocery Store

3. Cykorxicc Store 10 PC Square 304 Stainless Steel Food Containers with Lids

The 18/8 (304) stainless steel used to make this set of food prep containers ensures long-term safe usage. This material is rust-proof and anti-corrosion, unlike food storage containers made of glass and plastic! The stainless steel food container set from Cykorxicc is a long-lasting, healthier, and safer option for you, your loved ones, and the environment.

The new snap-on lids with a silicone sealing ring are superior for maintaining freshness and stopping food from spilling. The high-quality plastic is incredibly transparent, making it simple to identify your food. The recyclable and BPA-free plastic guarantees healthy food miles away from contaminants and poisons.

To clean, remove the easy-to-go silicon ring located beneath the lid. Because the containers are mirror polished, there is less chance of food sticking to them. You may save time and effort by washing them effortlessly because they are dishwasher-safe.

Pros:

Accommodates larger meal portions​

Versatile and convenient for various meal types

Cons:

Lids may wear over time

4. C CREST [5-Pack] Glass Lunch Box

The five meal prep containers each have a 34-ounce capacity. You can store ingredients in a bento box for sandwiches or fruits and vegetables.

You can use the containers to store leftovers or prepare meals in advance. Stack them in your cupboard or refrigerator. They also work as adult bento boxes, lunch boxes, or containers for taking meals to work, the gym, or home for better portion control and storage options.

Safe for the freezer, microwave, oven, and dishwasher (GLASS ONLY). Lunch containers are more robust than less expensive glass food storage containers because they are made of sturdy borosilicate glass. Please do not place the lids in the oven, microwave, or dishwasher for a longer service life.

Pros:

Durable and resistant to thermal shock​

Maintains food freshness​

Easy to clean​

Cons:

Heavier than plastic containers​

Lids require careful handling to maintain seal integrity

Read More: Mindful Mornings: Breakfast Habits That Set You Up for a Stress-Free Day

5. GoodCook BPA-Free Meal Prep Round 3-Compartment Container

This set of ten food storage containers makes it simple for one person to prepare the week’s lunches and dinners or for two people to plan and prepare the workweek’s lunches.

This round dinner-style plate design helps you maintain better eating habits by adhering to the recommended serving sizes of a balanced meal.

These food storage containers are freezer-safe and microwave-safe, making it simple to store, reheat, and serve food in a single container. They are ideal for preparing meals for the week and reheating leftovers.

These kitchen containers feature an embossed 1-cup grain section, a 1-cup protein section, and a 2-cup fruit and veggie portion to help you create your favorite nutritious meals.

Pros:

Lightweight and portable​

Suitable for various meal types

Cons:

Less durable than glass alternatives

6. Ankou 400ml Meal Prep Container Set of 4

Ankou meal prep containers are fantastic for taking meals on the move. They have secure locks and an airtight, 100% leak-proof cover. These bowl-style containers are perfect for meal prep at home and bringing breakfast to work.

The pop-top lid opens and closes easily with one hand, and it can be stacked for better organization and space savings. Brilliance uses BPA-free Tritan plastic, providing excellent glass-like clarity without the added weight and risk of breakage.

It is only reheatable in the microwave and dishwasher, and freezer safe on the top rack. However, please remove the cover before placing it in the dishwasher or microwave.

Pros:

High-Quality Material

Airtight and Leak-Proof

Versatile Usage

Cons:

Limited Capacity

Plastic Material

Read More: Zero-Waste Kitchen Products: Sustainable Eco-Friendly Alternatives

7. EKOSAVOR Store Meal Prep Container

These food storage containers are versatile in your daily routine because they are freezer-safe, dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe, stackable, and BPA-free. They are perfect for cooking, taking food out, and storing leftovers.

Convenient solutions are necessary on busy days. Thanks to their snugly fitting lids, these to-go containers keep food fresh and stop leaks while being transported. These take-out food containers are sturdy plastic and designed to endure regular use. Because of the material’s durability, they are reusable without sacrificing quality.

These four-compartment meal prep containers help you plan meals effectively and neatly. Each container holds 34 oz (1 liter) of food, making it ideal for portion control and well-balanced meals.

Pros:

Sturdy Construction

Leak-Proof Design

Versatile Usage

Cons

Size Limitations

8. Rubbermaid 16-piece BPA-Free Plastic Food Storage Set

To keep cabinets orderly, snap onto the container base and lids of the same size. This is excellent for cabinet storage, leftovers, and meal preparation. It also minimizes unneeded splashes and untidy microwaves.

Thick container walls tolerate daily use and temperature changes. Manufacturers use BPA-free, non-toxic plastic to make them, and the base is dishwasher, microwave, and freezer-safe. The set includes four 3-cup and four 5-cup lidded containers. Use these convenient storage containers to reduce kitchen clutter and streamline meal preparation.

Pros:

Durable Construction

Microwave and Dishwasher Safe

Stackable Design

Cons:

Staining and Odor Retention

Limited Sizes

Tips for Effective Meal Prep

Following a few innovative techniques may make meal preparation easy and fun.

Spend some time planning your weekly menu, taking into account breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. It will minimize trips to the food shop and keep you organized.

Make sure your meals include a variety of cereals, veggies, meats, and healthy fats. This will keep your meals interesting and add nutritional balance.

Choose appropriate meal prep containers based on your portion control and storage needs. Please ensure they are stackable for convenient storage, microwave-safe, and leak-proof.

Cook mainstays like grilled chicken, quinoa, rice, or roasted vegetables in large quantities. Keep them in separate containers to make assembling easier.

Label the contents and preparation date. This will ensure that you eat food before it goes bad.

Experiment with new recipes and seasonings to keep your dinners interesting. Try different sauces, spices, and cooking techniques.

Let the food cool before sealing and putting it in the refrigerator or freezer. Use airtight containers to maintain freshness and avoid spills.

By implementing these suggestions, you may maintain a healthy and pleasurable diet while optimizing your meal preparation efficiency.

Read More: Top 10 Heart-Healthy Cookware Essentials for Every Kitchen

Conclusion

Meal prep containers are useful tools for controlling portion sizes and maintaining a healthy diet. By investing in high-quality containers that fit your lifestyle, you can take advantage of time-saving meal planning, less food waste, and more conscious eating habits.

Selecting the appropriate containers will significantly impact whether your goal is to reach specific health objectives or make mealtimes more convenient. For every meal prepper, there is an ideal choice, ranging from glass and plastic to segmented and leak-proof designs.

Investigate your options now to see how meal prep containers can simplify your daily routine and change your approach to healthy eating.