Storage Solutions – Say Good-bye to Single-use Plastic Bags

Jan 17, 2022 by Chef David

By Chef David

For many environmentalists, single-use plastic is a source of concern, they are used and immediately discarded. But in the kitchen, plastic storage bags are essential, they are sanitary and conform to any shape (unlike glass containers).  Disposable plastic storages bags are so innocent, we don’t give them a second thought.  And while one bag is not a problem, over time they contribute to the mountains of avoidable waste.

In my search for better storage solutions, I discovered multi-purpose and reusable containers made of glass and reusable plastics. Almost immediately, I was generating less waste, and my kitchen has become neater.  An orderly kitchen is fundamental for efficient food preparation, so is getting rid of the mystery meals, thanks to Duralex clear storage containers, Lékué reusable silicone storage bags, and Jar to Go. This trifecta provides a structured approach to food storage, as well as making portions portable.

Reusable Rules

My approach to storage had focused entirely on maintaining freshness. Only function mattered, the type of container I selected was less important. Since I shifted to reusable storage containers my kitchen is less cluttered.  I have a handful of dedicated durable items instead of an entire self filled with various-sized single-use baggies and plastic containers. There is an added benefit, it is better for the environment.

Initially, I was skeptical about using Lékué silicone storage bags. What could they do that a glass storage container could not?  I discovered the answer after my first use.  The silicon storage bag is lighter, which makes it easier to carry. The Lékué reusable bag conforms to the size and shape of its contents, adding efficiency and convenience. Once sealed, the bag can fit into small or oddly shaped spaces, and it has an airtight seal. Even if it drops the contents stay safe and secure inside.  I tested the bag, first dropping it, then throwing it, and to my delight, the Lékué bag is 100% leakproof.

This storage bag can be used on a pantry shelf, then put in the refrigerator or the freezer. Lékué silicone storage bags even work for cooking Sous Vide, and it might even be healthier. One bag that can do it all!

Designed for Use

Lékué reusable bags are see-through, which makes content identification far simpler. There is an area for writing, with ample space to share information like, spicy eat at your own risk. The thick silicone helps prevent freezer burn and frost.

The silicon is strong. These are not the flimsy storage bags we are accustomed to. Lékué bags literally can stand up by themselves, and since they are leakproof, they can also be stored lying down. They come in three sizes: small, medium, and large (7 oz + 34 oz + 51 oz).

Clean-up is easy, wash the bags with little soap and water, or put them in the dishwasher.  The sealing strips should always be washed by hand.

The design for sealing the bag is clever.  The instructions are a picture. There is an arrow on the bag and a matching one on the plastic slid.  No words are necessary. No confusion.

I tried another storage product, Jar to Go, which is intended for packing lunches, or snacks.  The design is simple, yet sophisticated. It has a separate clear plastic storage space below the lid. You can pack a salad in the bottom of the jar and include the dressing on top, or yogurt on the bottom with granola on top. Essentially, you have one container where wet and dry ingredients co-exist but don’t mix.

Jar to Go is a simple and elegant solution for packing food, with an attached handle.  The containers can be stored overnight in the refrigerator, they are microwave safe (for warming soup) making them suitable for adult lunches (of course it works for school lunches). Like the other Lékué products, the Jar to Go is leakproof and easy to clean. They come in two sizes 14 and 20 ounces, making them large enough to be functional but not too big to carry.

Storage Solutions that let you focus on Cooking

Imagine having a set of containers that can go from the table to the refrigerator, to the freezer, and back again. I no longer need to worry about where prepared food will be stored, or whether it will leak in transit. Bringing the side dish for Shabbos just got a lot lighter, and packing snacks or lunches to go became much more attractive and practical. Lékué silicone bags and Jar to Go can be purchased online.

Lékué storage solutions provide order in the kitchen, so I can focus on cooking.