Plastic wrap is convenient, inexpensive and deeply ingrained as the way to cover and store food. According to Earth911.com, “we use enough plastic wrap every year to shrink-wrap the entire state of Texas.” Yikes! Plastic wrap is also non-biodegradable, rarely recycled, a derivative of petroleum, and can leach chemicals into the food especially when heated. With a little knowledge and some imagination, you can cover and store your food far more safely and just as conveniently without plastic. Here are some ideas:
- Glass storage containers like Pyrex, which are stackable, sturdy and microwave safe are a good solution. You can buy them new at any kitchen or home goods store, or take a trip down memory lane and look for the colored pyrex dishes from the 1950’s found at flea markets or consignment shops.
- Reusable silicone lids that fit most bowls are another good solution. They are 100% airtight and are dishwasher and microwave safe. They come in a variety of sizes and are even sold in the shape of lily pads. You can find them at most kitchen shops.
- Bee’s Wrap is a clever new product made from organic cotton muslin infused with beeswax, jojoba oil and tree resin. The anti-bacterial properties of beeswax and jojoba oil keep the food fresh and allow the wraps to be used over and over. Bee’s Wrap comes in 5 sizes and can be found at most specialty kitchen stores or on line.
- If you need to cover food after preparing but before serving, why not simply place a dishcloth over it? No need to waste plastic wrap.
- When transporting a salad or a dish to a friend’s house, cover the bowl with a lovely dinner plate. It makes a much more impressive presentation than plastic wrap!
The challenge is breaking the plastic wrap habit! It’s easy if you remember that food and plastic don’t go together. I’d love to know your ideas for alternatives to plastic wrap. Email me!
For more green living tips, visit greenwithbetsy.com.
Some information compiled from http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/QAA401234/Is-Plastic-Wrap-Safe.html, earth911.com.
What's Green with Betsy?!? 
I do agree with you very much. I have followed all of those suggestions already. I even carry my own take out containers with me when dining out. I still occasionally use a bit of plastic wrap. Have had the same box for the last 4 years. Single use plastic is such a hard habit to break entirely but most of us are trying.
Thank you for commenting! And good for you!!! I always forget to bring my own take out container when I dine out, so I’m glad you mentioned it. It is a difficult habit to break, but seems like you are there! Keep up the good work….
I haven’t used plastic wrap in years, so I’m stunned to read that it is still so heavily in use. I have one of those silicone covers and love it. I don’t have the pretty flower ones though and I’m happy to see they come in two sizes.
I’m gradually replacing food storage with glass. There are so many great options now.
Nice to see you, Betsy.
Thanks for commenting. Yes it’s hard to believe people still use plastic wrap, but don’t forget you are in California! The rest of the country isn’t there yet! Change is coming though.
Hope all is well with you.
Betsy
Good point, Betsy. We’re spoiled in many ways living here.
I use my bees wrap and silicon lids all the time…thanks to you!!
Good to hear Tudy! Spread the word….
Hope all is well!