When it comes to purchasing storage containers, there seem to be infinite factors to consider. These factors revolve around two popular options: glass storage jars and plastic jars. Looking at the impact of these types of jars on food items, especially wet food products, it is essential to provide homeowners and businesses with helpful tips to help them make the right decisions.
Whether you’ve been using jars for storing or packaging food items, or you are just starting, this guide will provide you with essential information to make the most of storage jars especially if you are considering different sizes including jar 500 ml, among other sizes. We have curated some commonly asked questions and answers about plastic and glass storage containers. Let’s explore them below.
What are Plastic Storage Jars?
Plastic jars are storage containers made from plastic materials like polypropylene and polyethylene. These jars come in various designs, colours, and sizes with plastic caps. They are mostly used for storing different kinds of products.
What are Glass Storage Jars?
Glass storage jars are made from naturally occurring minerals like silica sand. They are non-porous and often come with tight lids made from metal, glass or wood. They are more popular for storing food products, cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. These glass jars come in different designs including Bonta jars, and sizes below and above jar 500 ml. Food glass jars with lids offer timeless aesthetics that complement any kind of kitchen style or design.
Are Glass Containers Safer Than Plastic?
Yes, glass containers are considered a safer food storage jar option than plastic ones. Most plastics contain Bisphenol A (BPA), which is a chemical that can easily leach into food content especially if they are exposed to a change in temperature, or they hold acidic food content and pose health risks to people. Glass jars on the other hand, are BPA-free which means they are inert and do not leach any chemical even when exposed to heat, making it a healthier choice for preserving food products whether dried or wet.
Are Plastic Containers More Durable than Glass Jars?
No, plastic containers are less durable than storage glass jars with a lid. Though plastic jars are considered shatterproof, they easily break or degrade when they fall or experience a temperature change. The quality of glass jars degrades easily and often requires a change. Glass jars are sturdy, more durable, and last for years without degrading. Glass can withstand changes in temperature because they are made from tempered glass to enhance their durability hence you do not need to change them regularly.
Do Glass Containers Keep Food Fresh Longer Than Plastics?
Yes, glass storage jars with lids keep food fresher because they are non-porous (they do not absorb unwanted odour) and they create an airtight seal with the lids, which are essential factors in preserving food products to keep them fresh without going stale for some time. Plastics are porous, prone to warping or cracking as they age, and come with plastic caps, which may not guarantee effective airtight sealing. Using a different size of jar 500 ml means exploring a more effective storage option that keeps your food fresh for a longer period.
Which is More Eco Friendly: Plastic or Glass Jars?
When it comes to ensuring a circular economy where existing materials and products can be shared, leased, reused, repaired, refurbished and recycled as long as possible, glass jars are a suitable choice; they are eco-friendly. Plastics are disposable and they always end up in landfills which take hundreds of years to decompose, making them a less eco-friendly storage jar option. Additionally, glass jars can be repurposed and used in gardens, and for other purposes like decorations and storing craft supplies. You can explore our wide collection of glass jars of different sizes below and above jar 500 ml.
Which is More Affordable: Plastic or Glass Jar Containers?
While plastic containers are cheaper upfront, their shelf life and reusability are limited, unlike glass jars. Glass jars are durable and reusable over time. This means you do not need to change them consistently like plastics. When you spend more to get glass jars, you save on purchasing and repurchasing plastic jars consistently. Additionally, due to the ability of glass containers like Bonta jars to withstand changes in temperature and their non-porosity, they are versatile and can be used for different kinds of food storage from jam to pickles and dry goods.
Exploring options like buying glass jars wholesale is more cost-effective than buying in pieces. You can check out our “wholesale” sales option where you get discounts for buying in bulk.
Are Glass Storage Jars More Aesthetically Appealing than Plastic Jars?
In considering physical appeal, glass jars with their various kinds of lids options are a top choice compared to plastic jars. They can easily stand out in the pantry or on shelves while being functional. Their clear view makes it easy to see through while allowing your food product to shine through. The availability of different designs of glass jars and lids like square, hexagonal and Bonta jars makes customisation easier for you or your brand.
Ultimately, plastic jars are good for storage but glass jars with lids offer a more sustainable, safe, durable, versatile and aesthetically appealing storage option for food products, especially for long periods.