Best Meal Prep Containers: Glass vs Plastic and What to Look For

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How we choose: we compare features, ratings and review volume on Amazon, and favor products that are widely available at the time of writing. We do not claim to have tested every product listed. Last updated: October 2026.

The best meal prep plan in the world falls apart if your food leaks, goes soggy or will not fit in the fridge. The right meal prep containers make healthy eating easier by keeping food fresh, portioned and ready to grab. Here is how to choose between glass and plastic, how many you need and what to look for in a lid.

Glass vs plastic

	Glass	Plastic
Durability	Lasts years; does not stain or hold odors	Can stain, warp or scratch over time
Weight	Heavy to carry	Light and easy to pack
Microwave and oven	Often microwave and oven safe (check lid)	Microwave safe with limits; not for ovens
Price	More expensive up front	Cheaper
Breakage	Can break if dropped	Rarely breaks

If you reheat food at work, plastic is lighter. If you cook and store at home, glass usually lasts longer. Many people use both.

What to look for

• Airtight, leak-proof lids. Look for locking clips or silicone seals, especially for sauces and soups.
• Compartments. Two or three sections keep proteins, carbs and vegetables separate.
• Size. 24 to 36 ounces suits most lunches. Larger sizes work for dinners.
• Stackable shape. Square or rectangular containers stack neatly in the fridge.
• Freezer-safe. Check labels if you plan to freeze portions.
• Dishwasher-safe. Saves time on busy weeks.

Meal prep container options to compare

We have not tested these, so use them as a shortlist and read recent reviews.

Glass meal prep containers with locking lids

A durable option that handles fridge, microwave and oven. A good set for a week of lunches.

Plastic meal prep containers with compartments

Lightweight and affordable. Good for portion control and packing lunches.

Mason jar salad containers

Layer dressing at the bottom and greens on top to keep salads crisp for days.

Bento-style lunch boxes

Compact boxes with several compartments, good for adults who want variety in a small package.

How many containers do you need?

For five lunches and five dinners, you need about ten containers, plus a few smaller ones for snacks and sauces. If you prep twice a week, you can get by with fewer. Buy a few more than you think you need so you always have clean ones.

Tips for fresher food

• Let food cool before sealing to avoid condensation.
• Store sauces and dressings separately.
• Line containers with a paper towel for greens.
• Label containers with the date.
• Eat refrigerated meals within three to four days, and freeze the rest.

Need ideas to fill them? See our 15 healthy meal prep ideas and the best healthy snacks for weight loss.

Meal prep container sizes: what fits what

Size	Good for	Example
16–20 oz	Snacks and sides	Fruit, nuts, dressings
24–28 oz	Lunch bowls	Salads and grain bowls
32–36 oz	Main meals	Chicken, rice and vegetables
Compartment trays	Balanced portions	Protein, carb and veggie sections

A simple prep day routine

1. Choose two proteins, two grains and three vegetables.
2. Start the grains and roast the vegetables.
3. Cook the proteins while the oven is hot.
4. Let everything cool, then portion into containers.
5. Label with the date and refrigerate or freeze.

For recipes, see our 15 healthy meal prep ideas.

Care and cleaning

• Remove the silicone seal from lids and wash it separately.
• Rinse tomato sauces and curry quickly to avoid stains.
• Do not move hot glass directly into a cold fridge or onto a cold counter.
• Replace lids and containers that crack or warp.

Frequently asked questions

Can I microwave glass containers with the lid on?

Often the glass is microwave safe but the lid is not, or needs to be vented. Check the instructions for your set.

How do I remove stains from plastic containers?

Wash with warm soapy water, then soak in baking soda and water. Sunlight can also help fade stains.

Are glass containers safer than plastic?

Glass does not leach and is inert. Look for BPA-free plastic if you choose plastic, and avoid heating food in damaged containers.

Prices, availability and product details change often. Always check the current listing on Amazon before you buy.

Keep going

• Meal prep ideas: 15 healthy recipes
• Healthy snacks for weight loss
• Best air fryer for healthy cooking
• How much protein per day

This article is for general information and is not medical advice. If you have a medical condition, take medication or are pregnant, talk to a doctor or registered dietitian before changing your diet or taking supplements.