Storage & food preparation · Container

Airtight container

A lidded box with a seal that keeps food fresh, dry and protected in the fridge, freezer or pantry.

Essential in most kitchens · No power needed · 20 recipes

What it is

A plastic, glass or stainless-steel box with a tight lid, often with silicone gaskets and clip locks. It keeps moisture, air and pests out and stops smells spreading in the fridge. Glass versions can often go in the oven or microwave; plastic is lighter.

What it’s for: Storing leftovers, prepped ingredients and dry goods safely.

How to use it

Cool cooked food quickly before sealing and refrigerating.
Fill leaving a small space, especially for freezing liquids that expand.
Seal fully and label with the contents and date.
Remove the lid before microwaving.

Good to know

Tasks: storing leftovers, meal prep, storing flour, rice and cereals, freezing soups and curries, packing lunches
Materials: plastic, glass, stainless steel, silicone seal
Care and cleaning: Wash lid gaskets regularly. Remove turmeric and tomato stains with baking soda or sunlight. Replace cracked boxes.
Limitations: Plastic stains and holds smells; seals wear over time.

Safety

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and reheat until steaming hot.
Only microwave containers marked microwave-safe.

If you don’t have one

Glass jar with lid — For dry goods and liquids.
Freezer bags — Take up less space for freezing flat portions.

Equipment guide

How it works: A gasket or tight lid limits air exchange, slowing oxidation, drying out and staling, and keeps moisture, smells and pests out.

Material	Good	Watch out
Glass	Non-reactive, does not absorb smells or stains, lets you see the contents, easy to sterilise.	Breakable; clear glass lets light degrade light-sensitive foods such as spices and oils.
Polypropylene	Light; freezer-safe.	Stains and holds smells; can warp.
Stainless steel	Durable, non-reactive, dishwasher-safe, does not hold smells.	Can scratch non-stick pans; conducts heat, so all-metal handles get hot.

Clip-lock containers: Silicone gasket.
Vacuum containers: Pump removes air.
Stackable dry-goods canisters: Flour, rice, lentils.

Buying guidance

Starting out: Glass containers with clip-lock lids for leftovers, and polypropylene canisters for dry goods.