The heart is the pillar of the body. Because of that, many different health concerns can impact them, including what you ingest. It’s clear that preparing heart-healthy food at home,—whatever that looks like for you—is an effective way to take care of this beating muscle. However, with meal prep comes the need for food storage containers. For years, many of us have turned to plastic, but evidence has shown that these vessels shed microplastics over time, potentially impacting cardiovascular health.
I chatted with two cardiologists to discuss the kitchen items they would never use (or want patients to use, for that matter), and the item that overlapped between them was plastic food storage containers. “We know eating the right nutrients in the right amounts can yield almost instant beneficial effects. We also know that unknowingly ingesting harmful ingredients can have a detrimental impact,” said preventative cardiologist Dr. Elizabeth Klodas, M.D., F.A.C.C., creator of Step One Foods. “For that reason, I’ve phased out most plastic containers, especially for anything that goes in the microwave.” Thankfully, we have tried our fair share of alternative, non-toxic options that are equally as effective, if not superior to than their plastic counterparts.
Best Overall Cardiologist-Recommended Plastic Container Swaps
Pyrex Simply Store Glass Container Set, 9-Pack
Amazon
A tried and true set, these glass Pyrex containers are our favorite option overall. We put them through a variety of tests in our lab, and several of us use them at home—including me! One of the most well-priced options for replacing plastic containers, they absorb no stains or odors, are airtight and are plenty durable. I love how easy they are to clean, too.
Though the lids are plastic (unfortunately, this is the case with many glass containers), they’re BPA-free, which is a primary criterion for Dr. Klodas and Dr. Aaron Feingold, M.D., chair of cardiology at JFK University Medical Center. “BPA and phthalates can leach into foods, potentially disrupting hormones and contributing to cardiovascular disease,” said Dr. Feingold.
Ball Mason Wide Mouth Jars with Lids and Bands, 4-Pack
Amazon
Ball Mason jars are iconic for a reason—they seal well thanks to the 2-step lid design, and they’re very versatile, whether you choose to can or not. I love to store homemade dressings, jams, sauces, snacks, spices, grains and other staples in them, though they also work well for overnight oats, yogurt parfaits and desserts. This 4-piece set includes two useful sizes: a 32-ounce and a 16-ounce.
Bentgo Signature Leak-Proof Glass Food Storage, 4-Pack
Amazon
I am in love with these Bentgo containers. They are plastic-free, which is rare; The lids are made with silicone and glass and I find that they seal well. My partner has packed a whole serving of spaghetti with meatballs inside the largest container, let it shuffle around his backpack on the train and popped it into the work refrigerator completely unscathed. They’re microwave-, dishwasher- and freezer-safe, so I know I can count on them to store and reheat meals. This aligns with Dr. Klodas’ recommendation. “Heating food in plastic can release PFAS—chemicals linked to heart disease, certain cancers, and immune system dysfunction. I use glass containers instead. It’s a simple switch, but one that supports the bigger picture of heart-healthy living.”
Pyrex Colors Tinted Sculpted Tinted Glass Mixing Bowls with Lids, 3-Pack
Amazon
I use these Pyrex bowls multiple times a week for prep and storage. Just like the Simply Store set above, these bowls come with BPA-free lids. I reach for them to store prepped grains and leftovers, to mix recipes like brownie batter and to toss balanced salads. Excellent for serving because of their stunning design, the bowls are a useful option I always feel great about using.
Bormioli Rocco Fido Glass Square Jar, 3-Liter
Amazon
Another one of my storage favorites, Bormioli Rocco is an Italian brand that makes glass jars with latching lids. These are my go-to for storing pantry staples with more volume, like flour, sugar and oats. The latching lids create a tight seal that keeps everything very fresh for months at a time. I appreciate how easy they are to open, and I know that the lid will never get lost since it’s attached. (I have lost many container lids in the midst of busy prep!) I have even strained to reach them in the cabinet and dropped them onto my countertop—and they didn’t break. Another perk? Their square shape fits into pantry corners in a very satisfying way.
Stasher Premium Silicone Reusable Food Storage Sandwich Bag
Amazon
Instead of opting for a plastic container to store tomorrow’s lunch or an odd end of produce, try a silicone bag. Silicone is a more durable form of plastic, and these Stasher bags are no exception. We put them through rigorous tests, whether filling it with water to check leakage or storing notoriously stain-inducing butternut squash in the bag for a month, and found them to be perfect all around. They’re indestructible, seal tightly and keep food noticeably fresher for longer.
Souper Cubes 2-Cup Silicone Freezer Tray with Lid
Amazon
Another silicone find, Souper Cubes’ freezer storage containers are genius. They’re our favorite non-toxic option for making and storing meal prep for months at a time. The sturdy stainless steel rim and silicone body are oven-safe for baking, and this particular 2-cup serving size is excellent for soup, sauces, casseroles and other freezer heroes.
