In our labs, we test food storage containers for their ability to keep food fresh, their durability, the quality of the seal between the lid and container, and their ease of use.
To assess freshness, Deitrick and his team of testers fill each container with the same number of PopCorners chips (the kettle corn flavor, if you’re curious), seal it up, and let it sit. After two weeks, a panel of three judges evaluates the chips for crispness and flavor, comparing them to those from a fresh bag of PopCorners. The containers with chips that remain essentially unchanged receive the highest score for the storage test.
To test durability, Deitrick fills containers with dried black beans and subjects each model to a series of two “drop” tests. For the first test, testers slide the container off a 36-inch-high countertop onto the floor. For the second test, they simply drop the container straight to the floor from the height of the countertop. The best-performing containers hit the floor without losing their lids or breaking. Only one glass model—the Caraway—shattered on impact.
To test the quality of each food container’s seal, Deitrick fills each with water and sloshes it around. Many containers were prone to leaking; the best ones kept the water securely inside. Deitrick found that the higher-scoring models often—though not always—featured additional sealing mechanisms, like gaskets and latches.
Food storage containers typically do well in the fridge. So to assess ease of use, we take stock of which models—along with their lids—can also withstand the freezer, dishwasher, microwave, and oven. Containers that can nest easily to take up less room on a shelf rack up extra points, too. But these ease-of-use features are weighted far less heavily than durability or a leakproof seal. That’s how, despite not being microwave-safe, many stainless-steel containers still end up with high Overall Scores and rise to the top of our ratings.
Steel containers not only come in a range of sizes but they can also be used for a diverse range of storage as well. There are numerous products that can be stored within a container, a subject which we have covered on our blog page many times.
A container can be transformed into many things, such as a new home, a business space, or somewhere you can store your goods. But, have you ever thought about using a container for food storage?
Containers are a fantastic substitute for other materials such as plastic and glass. They boast many benefits such as:
Although glass and plastic have been common and popular ways to store food, stainless steel has become a growing alternative due to the above benefits it brings.
The answer is yes. Some stainless-steel alloys are deemed food grade and can be used for kitchen accessories, appliances and containers. There are many types of stainless steels which are used in a variety of household and kitchen tools.
Did you know silverware, travel mugs and sinks are commonly created from stainless steel? Austenitic stainless steel is often used for food containers due to its high corrosion resistance.
These containers provide versatile and practical storage, and, if used within businesses such as restaurants, they can be utilised at every stage of food preparation. From cold storage to service, they are ideal for any catering aspect or venue.
The thickness of steel, also known as the gauge, determine how strong or durable the container is. The smaller the gauge, the thicker the metal.
The food industry is hugely successful worldwide, and there are numerous ways food can be stored. There are so many different types of food containers other than stainless steel that businesses consider for both storage and transportation. Here, we have listed a diverse range of popular food containers:
Whether you are in need of a steel container for storage or transport, a mobile welfare unit for hire, or site accommodation units, we can help. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with our experts today by calling 020 8459 5984 or emailing info@flinthamcabins.com.