Key Takeaways
- Meal prepping can help simplify healthy eating, especially during busy weeks, and save you time and money.
- We asked nutrition experts to recommend their go-to products.
- FIT Strong & Healthy Glass Meal Prep Containers comes out on top for an airtight, leakproof design, easy cleaning, and versatile use from freezer to oven.
Whether you prep a week’s worth of meals on Sunday or you just want to bring your leftovers to work the next day, choosing the right meal prep container is essential.
After all, how you store your food can make all the difference between a fresh, tasty meal and a spoiled, unappetizing one.
Some containers are also freezer-, microwave-, and/or oven-safe for optimal convenience.
Here are our picks of the 12 best meal prep containers for every need.
A note on price per count
Below are general price ranges indicated with dollar signs ($ to $$$). One dollar sign indicates the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher cost.
Generally, prices range from $1.50 to $39.99 per count, though this may vary depending on where you shop.
Pricing per count guide
- $ = under $5
- $$ = $5 to $10
- $$$ = over $10
Because many of the containers below are available in a variety of container and pack sizes, some products have multiple price ranges.
When selecting the best meal prep containers, we considered the following factors:
- Durability: We prioritized containers made from durable materials that can withstand regular use without cracking or breaking.
- Spill-proof and leakproof: We looked for products designed to prevent messes during transport and storage.
- Expert recommendations: We asked nutrition experts to share their go-to products.
- Ease of cleaning: We prioritized containers that are dishwasher-safe and free from difficult-to-clean crevices.
- Utility: We included a wide range of containers to suit a variety of needs and preferences. So, whether you prefer 1, 2, or 3 compartments or you want round containers rather than rectangular ones, you’ll likely be able to find one that works for you.
- Price: We included products to suit a range of budgets.
- Vetting: All the products on our list have been vetted to ensure that they align with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.
Meal prep containers allow you to:
- Prepare and store healthy meals in bulk.
- Keep food fresh longer.
- Keep food portioned and ready to eat or heat.
- Cut down on waste from one-time-use containers.
- Save money by skipping the drive-thru.
- Save time by doing all your meal prep at once.
Plus, many containers are designed to be compact, saving you valuable refrigerator real estate.
Here’s a quick look at our top picks:
0.83 L
When deciding on a meal prep container, you may want to consider the following factors:
- What food will you store? Knowing the types of meals you’ll store in your containers can help you choose the right ones. For example, bowls are helpful for soups and stews, while containers with multiple compartments may work better for salads and snack boxes.
- How do you want to use them? Will you be prepping food and then freezing it and cooking it later? If so, you’ll want to purchase containers that are freezer-, microwave-, and oven-safe.
- What size will you need? Large containers work best for storing leftovers or large portions, while smaller ones work better for individual meals and small portions.
- How will you store them? If you have limited cupboard space, choose containers that nest or collapse to save space.
- How much time do you want to spend cleaning them? If you don’t want to handwash your containers, be sure to buy ones that are dishwasher-safe.
- What material do you want? Glass is typically easier to clean and less likely to discolor or absorb odors. However, plastic and silicone are often lighter and less likely to break, which is particularly important for kids’ lunch boxes. Just be sure to choose a product made from BPA-free, food-grade plastic.
Depending on the types of meals and snacks you like to prep, you may find that you need multiple types of containers.
Whether you’re new to meal prepping or are looking to up your game, here are a few quick tips to set you up for success:
- Keep track of your favorite meals so you always have a list of healthy meal ideas on hand.
- Shop your kitchen before heading to the grocery store to help reduce food waste and save money.
- Make an organized grocery list — and stick to it!
- Start with a clean kitchen and all your supplies on hand.
- Batch cook foods that can be used in several meals throughout the week.
- Use your freezer to store leftovers and extras so you always have an easy meal on hand.
- Divide meals into portions before refrigerating or freezing them.
Looking for more help with meal prepping?
We’ve got you! Here are a few articles to help make the process of meal prep easier and less daunting:
While glass is heavier and sometimes more difficult to store, there are several benefits of using glass over plastic.
For example, glass is easy to clean and is often safe to use in the microwave, oven, and freezer without the risk of harmful chemicals leaching into your food. Plus, it’s less likely to stain or retain odors and more eco-friendly.
If choosing plastic, select a product made from BPA-free plastic. Some plastics are also more stain- and odor-resistant, so they’re better options if you regularly store foods such as red sauces and curries.
Glass or food-grade plastic containers with tight-fitting lids are best for keeping food fresh longer.
According to the Food and Drug Administration, most cooked foods can safely be kept in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. After that, the risk of bacterial growth and food poisoning increases.
Meal prepping can save you valuable time and money and help you meet your health goals. And if you’re preparing food in advance, you’ll need the right containers to store it.
Meal prep containers come in all sizes and shapes, have a wide range of prices, and have varying uses and degrees of durability. Choose the containers that fit your meal prep style and make the most sense for your meal prepping goals.