Food Storage & Wrapping

Beeswax wraps are the most popular and practical cling wrap alternative. They mould to shape with hand warmth, seal around bowls and over cut produce, and last 12 months or more with proper care. Reusable silicone bags (Stasher, stocked at EcoWarehouse) are better for an airtight seal. Beeswax wraps should not be used with raw meat or in the microwave.

Beeswax wraps work well for most fresh produce, bread, cheese, and covering bowls. They should not be used with raw meat or fish due to the risk of the wax coating absorbing juices. They cannot be used in the microwave or dishwasher. For raw meat storage, stainless steel containers are the better choice.

With proper care — washing in cool water with mild soap and air drying — beeswax wraps typically last 12 months or more of regular use. When they reach end of life and no longer stick well, they can be composted in a home compost or used as firelighters to start a fire or a woodburner.

Glass is chemically inert and does not leach anything into food regardless of temperature. It is dishwasher safe, does not absorb odours or stains, and lasts indefinitely with normal care. The main disadvantages are weight and breakability. For pantry storage and fridge use, glass is the best option. For packed lunches and children's lunchboxes, stainless steel is lighter and unbreakable.

Yes. Reusable silicone bags seal as effectively as single-use zip bags, are dishwasher safe, and last for years. They come in snack, sandwich, and litre sizes to suit different uses. The main adjustment is washing and drying them after use rather than discarding. Silicone bags can also be used in the freezer and some can go in the microwave.

Stainless steel is the safest and most practical choice for hot food. It is chemically inert at any food temperature with no leaching risk. Plastic containers, even BPA-free ones, can leach plasticisers into hot or fatty food. EcoWarehouse stocks stainless steel lunchboxes suitable for hot meal prep and packed lunches.