4 Food Wrap Alternatives

Food wrap choices have long focused on petroleum-based options, but you can do better. Cling wrap is the sticky, thin plastic film handy for covering food dishes that you often see at potlucks and in fridges full of leftovers. It often clings to everything but food you want to cover.  You might know it as plastic wrap, food wrap or Saran Wrap. Unlike many plastics, cling wrap is not recyclable.

Most cling wrap is made from polyvinyl chlorides (PVC), a flexible form of plastic used in a variety of U.S. goods. PVC has the possibility of releasing undesirable chemicals into food products.  Some of these chemicals are labeled as “likely human carcinogen”.

Since it not recyclable, the addition of more plastic debris has adverse impacts on wildlife and the environment.  The plastic debris might choke or trap wildlife and could also leak toxic compounds into ecosystems.

Avoid human and environmental contamination by ditching plastic cling wrap and trying some of these sustainable alternatives.

Beeswax Wrap

Need to store your leftover lunch, a half-eaten apple, a chunk of bread? Beeswax food wraps have it covered (literally). This reusable and plastic-free option infuses organic cotton with naturally malleable beeswax to create a sustainable plastic wrap alternative. Some brands also add extra additives like jojoba oil and tree resin.  Beeswax wrap keeps food fresh and is delightfully versatile. Ideal for covering bowls or folding it around a sandwich.  You can also cut it into strips on compost it. Buy your own Bee’s Wrap or turn it into a DIY project with friends.

Glass Containers

Glass jars are staples in the zero waster movement. They’re washable, reusable, and recyclable. The material’s durability makes it a top choice for endlessly reusable containers that don’t pose health risks.

Reusable glass containers are becoming more common in retail food packaging, sometimes requiring a small deposit that’s refunded when you return the empty container. That’s a big win for green-minded shoppers.

Many health food stores allow you to use your own reusable containers at the bulk bins, too. If you don’t have jars the right shape for your needs, a variety of glass and metal food storage containers are commercially available. Just remember to write down the tare weight of your containers before filling up.

Reusable Sandwich Bags

Reusable sandwich bags are handy and eco friendly.  They don’t just hold sandwiches.  They are also great for fruit, veggies and other snacks.  BPA free and easy to clean.  You can easily hand wipe or machine wash.

 

Organic Plant Based Wax Wrap

As vegan alternative to bees wax you have plant based wraps.

Plant based wraps are made using soy wax instead of beeswax. Soy wax has lower melting temperature compared to beeswax. Due to the lower melting point less heat from your hands are needed to create a perfect seal.

Whatever you choose, food wraps that are nontoxic, compostable, and organically sourced are the best way to keep your meals and cooking ingredients fresh.