Day 55 – When I was a kid, my younger sister and I would accompany my Mom on her Rubbermaid Party trips, on occasion. We didn’t choose to go, but instead had to go because there was no one home to watch us. During these parties, I would hear my Mom share with the attendees how wonderful Rubbermaid plastic storage containers were, along with their versatility and durability. They could go into the refrigerator, dishwasher and even the microwave. As an adult, I continued to use plastic storage containers. I would even purchase Rubbermaid. I guess they reminded me of home and especially, my Mom.

As I was doing my plastic inventory throughout the house, I came across my plastic storage containers. Even though they are not single use plastic, I have always been weary of their safety.

“More research is showing that plastic leaches chemicals into our food and drinks, which can harm our health. Plastics like Bisphenol A (BPA) and Bisphenol S (BPS) have been shown to have hormone-mimicking, estrogenic properties. BPA has even been linked to breast cancer tumors. While BPA has been taken out of many plastics due to consumer demand, it has been routinely replaced with BPS, which may be even more toxic. Studies show that it’s now found in 81% of blood tested and that it can lead to ailments such as diabetes, obesity, asthma, birth defects, and cancer. Just because something is labeled BPA-free doesn’t mean it’s safe.” – Earth911

I have reminded everyone in the house not to microwave food in the containers and I choose not to freeze food in them. I knew I needed to make a change and this year was the year to do it. There are many alternatives to plastic storage containers. Glass, stainless steel and silicone are all good options. I opted for glass containers. I purchased a set of glass storage containers from Anchor Hocking. I went with the 20 piece set for $50. I thought the price was quite reasonable.

Some of the reasons I purchased from Anchor Hocking:

1. Made in America (Lancaster, Ohio) since 1905.
2. Their pure glass has a non-porous surface that doesn’t absorb like plastic.
3. I can feel confident that the glass containers will not degrade or leach chemicals into my food, like plastic containers.
4. The glass containers can go into the freezer, dishwasher or the microwave, safely.

I can’t say we have eliminated every plastic storage container from the kitchen, but we are beginning to phase them out.

The next question is, what to do with those old plastic storage containers? Well, I have good news! TerraCycle has partnered with Rubbermaid to take back ANY plastic storage container and recycle it. I just signed up for this program on Monday and was immediately accepted. So, now you can make the upgrade without having the guilt of producing more waste.

I know my Mom would have really liked my new glass storage containers. Though, I’m sure she would never have wanted to be an Anchor Hocking sales rep. Glass would not have been fun to lug around the home party circuit.

Tomorrow, I’ll explain the FREE TerraCycle recycling programs.