The Best Substitute For Plastic Wrap: Top 7
Learn about the best substitute for plastic wrap and how to make the switch to help save our planet!
Plastic wrap has become the go-to for keeping our food and other items fresh, but there are a host of sustainable substitute materials that can help us reduce our reliance on plastic. From beeswax-coated cloths to silicone lids, there are many viable alternatives for wrapping up our leftovers or creating an airtight seal over a bowl of food.
Top 7 Plastic Wrap Alternatives
But what are some of the best substitute materials? Here’s a look at the top 7 substitute materials for plastic wrap: reusable storage bags and containers, beeswax-coated cloths, silicone lids, aluminum foil, parchment paper, ceramic dishes or bowls with fitted lids, and waxed string.
Each option can be used over and over and comes with its own environmental benefits. Let’s discuss these in detail.
Reusable Storage Bags And Containers
Reusable storage bags and containers are a great way to reduce single-use plastic bag waste. Not only are reusable storage bags and containers better for the environment, but they can also be more economical in the long run.
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Best of all, there is a wide selection available so you can find something that will work for your lifestyle, from mesh bags for fresh produce to insulated lunch bags to durable cloth totes. There’s no reason not to make the switch and start helping the environment with reusable storage bags and containers.
Beeswax-Coated Cloths
Beeswax-coated cloths are unique and versatile products that offer a number of practical benefits. By applying melted beeswax to fabric, everything from wraps for cheese and sandwiches to the sheets used in hot stone massage can be effectively protected and sealed. Not only does this form a protective layer that is resistant to water, but it also helps keep moisture inside so foodstuffs will remain fresh creating a vegan reusable food wrap.
Moreover, beeswax food wraps simplify food preservation due to their ability to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold while still allowing air to pass through. A few strategically placed coats of beeswax wrap can even strengthen and increase the lifespan of many fabrics like wool or leather. For these reasons and more, beeswax wraps provide an excellent alternative to plastic cling wrap and other traditional food storage devices.
Silicone Lids
Silicone bags or lids are one of the most useful and innovative cooking tools available today. They are a great way to preserve food without worrying about spilling or mess, plus they naturally create an airtight environment that keeps the food fresher for longer.
Being made from silicone also means that lids are heat-resistant and can be used to store food both hot and cold foods safely. Not to mention, these reusable bowl covers come in a range of sizes that make sure almost any dish or bowl is covered regardless of its shape or size. What’s more, the self-sealing properties make them versatile enough to be used again and again while keeping their airtight properties intact over time.
Aluminum Foil
Aluminum foil is an invaluable item for home cooks or bakers. It can easily create packets of food that can be grilled, oven-baked, and even placed in the microwave. When it comes to storing leftovers, aluminum foil is also very protective against keeping extra food fresh and locking in aromas.
It’s a kitchen essential that allows greater convenience when it comes to baking cakes and bread as well as wrapping up sandwiches and snacks without getting your hands messy. Metalizing food makes it more flavorful and prevents the sticking of ingredients. The foil also helps reduce heat loss when cooking on the stovetop or in the oven, allowing for better retention of flavor, moisture, and presentation of dishes.
Parchment Paper
Parchment paper is an indispensable tool for the home baker and other culinary enthusiasts. Not only does it prevent food from sticking to cooks’ surfaces, but parchment paper also allows for neat and easy clean-up of even the messiest recipes.
Parchment paper can be used for a variety of purposes, from lining baking pans for your pizza dough to wrapping food for cooking en papillote – providing flavor, texture, and health benefits that plastic bags, regular wax or plastic wraps can’t offer. What’s more, parchment paper helps maintain temperature and moisture levels during baking, ensuring perfect results every time! It’s a perfect solution for helping bring out the best in any kitchen creation.
Ceramic Dishes/Bowls With Fitted Lids
Ceramic dishes and bowls with fitted lids are incredibly convenient plastic wrap substitute for storing food and leftovers. Not only do they look great in any kitchen, but their sturdy lids provide an extra layer of protection against pests and other messes – perfect for both indoor and outdoor entertaining.
Best of all, these dishes come in a wide array of colors, shapes, and sizes to fit whatever style you want. Whether you want to keep your pot roasts hot or spinach dip cool at your next gathering, ceramic dishes with fitted lids will make the job much easier!
Waxed String
The waxed string is a great choice for food storage, as it securely binds and keeps ingredients fresh for an extended period of time. It’s also environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and won’t leave odors or residues. Unlike other types of twine, the waxed string has a naturally waterproof coating that seals in moisture to help prevent spoilage.
Plus, you can easily reuse it again and again. This makes waxed string an ideal solution for preserving leftovers, keeping produce fresh, and even creating eye-catching edible arrangements like cheese boards or fresh fruit platters. With waxed string on hand, you can confidently experiment with all sorts of gourmet kitchen creations.
Disadvantages Of Plastic Wrap
For one, plastic wrap is not reusable, meaning it creates an extra waste burden on the environment since each time it needs to be replaced it must be thrown away. Additionally, plastic wrap exists in a very thin form and this means that sharp objects can easily pierce right through, making it unsuitable in cases where food or other fragile items need protection from poking or tearing.
Finally, some plastics used to make plastic wrap contain harmful chemicals such as phthalates or Bisphenol A which have been linked to health issues like disruptions in hormones and increased risk of cancer.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a bread bag or keeping your sandwich ingredients together while you’re en route to work, there is a very convenient substitute for plastic wrap. If everyone consciously strives to find substitute options like these seven alternatives, we can make big strides toward reducing plastic consumption around the world – one bite at a time!
