Food Storage Containers for Meal Prep and Leftovers: Our 2026 Recommendations

Written by: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer

An organised fridge, a delicious lunch for work, and less food waste. That's the goal, but in practice, it's often a different story. Wilted vegetables, a lunch bag filled with leaked soup, or a stack of containers that take up more space than they save. Choosing the right food storage containers can eliminate many of these daily frustrations.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I'm here to help you see past the marketing claims. In this article, I'll provide practical guidance and a selection of popular food containers so you can make a choice that fits your needs.

What to Look for When Buying Food Storage Containers

Before we look at the products, here are a few key points to help you make your choice.

1. Material Choice: Glass, Stainless Steel, or Plastic?

The material largely determines the user experience. There's no 'wrong' choice, only one that better or less suits your needs.

• Plastic: Lightweight, often affordable, and typically microwave-safe (without the lid) and freezer-safe. Look for the BPA-free label, which means no Bisphenol A was used in the plastic. Brands like Mepal food containers are a well-known name in this category.
• Glass Food Containers: Made from durable borosilicate glass, these containers are hygienic. They don't absorb odours or stains, which is ideal for dishes with tomato or curry. They can usually go straight from the freezer to the microwave. The downside is that they are heavier and more fragile than plastic.
• Stainless Steel Food Containers: Stainless steel is unbreakable, lightweight, and very durable. It's a safe choice that doesn't leach any substances. The major disadvantage is that stainless steel containers must never be put in the microwave. They are perfect for storing ingredients, salads, or a cold lunch box.

2. A Good Seal: Airtight and Leak-proof

These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they don't mean the same thing.

• Airtight: The lid seals the contents from air, keeping food fresh for longer. This is important for storing coffee beans, biscuits, or sliced vegetables.
• Leak-proof: The lid prevents liquids from escaping. Essential if you're taking soup, yoghurt, or a saucy meal with you. Leak-proof containers often have a silicone gasket and sturdy locking clips.

Always check the product description to see if a container meets your requirements for meal prep containers.

Our 2026 Recommendations

Below is a selection of products that stand out for their specific features and materials.

Maxcook 3-Piece 316 Stainless Steel Food Container Set

Why It Stands Out This set from Maxcook is made of 316 stainless steel. This is a higher grade than the commonly used 304 stainless steel and, according to the manufacturer, offers better resistance to corrosion, making it extra durable and hygienic. The set consists of three different sizes, convenient for both large meals and small snacks.

Pros

• Material: Made from high-quality, food-safe 316 stainless steel.
• Durable: Unbreakable and resistant to stains and odours.
• Ease of Use: Suitable for the freezer and dishwasher.
• Versatile: The set includes two 600 ml containers and one large 2200 ml container.

Who Is This a Good Choice For? For those looking for a durable, plastic-free solution for storing food and taking cold lunches on the go. Ideal if you prioritise robustness and hygiene and don't need to heat your meals in the container itself using a microwave.

View the Maxcook Stainless Steel Set on Joybuy.nl

Mepal Cirqula Multi Bowl Set (3-Piece)

Why It Stands Out The Mepal Cirqula is a true all-rounder and a popular choice in many Dutch kitchens. According to Mepal, the set is designed for storing, freezing, and reheating food. The transparent window in the lid lets you see the contents at a glance.

Pros

• Multifunctional: Suitable for the fridge, freezer, microwave (without lid), and dishwasher.
• Leak-proof and Airtight: The lid provides a secure seal, keeping your meals fresh and safe to transport.
• BPA-Free: Made from polypropylene without harmful plasticisers.
• Dutch Design: A well-known and trusted brand with a focus on functionality.

Who Is This a Good Choice For? This is an excellent food container set for avid meal preppers and for families. If you're looking for a reliable solution that you can use from the freezer to the microwave to the dinner table, the Cirqula is a practical choice.

View the Mepal Cirqula Set on Joybuy.nl

5five Glass Food Storage Container (0.8L)

Why It Stands Out This glass food container from 5five combines the hygienic benefits of glass with a practical, leak-proof seal. It is made from borosilicate glass, which is more resistant to thermal shock (sudden temperature changes) than regular glass. The lid with four locking clips ensures a very reliable seal.

Pros

• Hygienic: The glass does not absorb colours, odours, or flavours.
• Leak-proof Seal: The clips and silicone gasket ensure the contents are securely stored.
• Temperature-Resistant: Suitable for the freezer, microwave (without lid), and dishwasher.
• Transparent: You can see the contents at a glance.

Who Is This a Good Choice For? Ideal for those who prefer glass over plastic, for example, for storing leftover lasagne or taking a salad with dressing on the go. It's a solid choice for an individual lunch or for storing a single portion in the fridge or freezer.

View the 5five Glass Container on Joybuy.nl

Looking for Something Else?

Haven't found the perfect match for you yet, or are you looking for a specific size or shape? There are many more options available to suit different needs. Browse our wider range for more choices.

️ Discover more freezer-safe meal prep containers on Joybuy.nl

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between airtight and leak-proof? An airtight container keeps air out to keep food fresh longer, but it isn't necessarily guaranteed to be watertight if you tilt it. A leak-proof container has a special seal (often with a silicone gasket and clips) that prevents liquids, like soup or sauce, from escaping. For on-the-go use, leak-proof is the safest option.

2. Can all food storage containers go in the freezer and microwave? No, this depends heavily on the material. Most plastic and glass containers can go in the freezer and microwave (note: the lid often needs to be removed). Stainless steel must absolutely not be used in the microwave. Always check the manufacturer's specifications before placing a container in the microwave or freezer.

3. How do I prevent stains and odours in plastic containers? Rinse containers immediately after use with cold water before washing them with hot water and soap. This helps prevent pigments (like from tomato sauce) from setting into the plastic. For stubborn odours, it can help to soak the container overnight in a solution of water and a little baking soda.