Reddit reviews Evolutionize Healthy Meal Prep Containers - Certified BPA-free - Reusable, Washable, Microwavable Food Containers/Bento Box with Lids (7 Pack, Single Compartment, 28 Ounce)

I got these ones because I like having one compartment and because the came in a pack of 7 as opposed to 15-20 like a lot of the other choices
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0128YT76S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_LC70AbA8V615W

There are some nice glass options that I would have preferred but I was worried about people stealing them from the work fridge. I ended up switch to intermittent fasting so I don't even take a lunch to work anymore so I'm kind of glad I didn't spend more for the glass lol

I almost never go out for lunch, cost and tired of the options. And sorry for the wall of text in advance.

I cook my lunch meals on Sunday and use this type of container. Keeps the amount of food you can eat in check(1 to 2 cups), safe(BPA and stuff) and store well due to the stack ability. Dishwasher safe as well as durable. I actually got mine from a place called My Fit Foods and reused them, we're talking 5 years. That's durable.

As a chef I'm sure you can get flavors out of food it's a matter of making the food "edible" when re-heated. I eat a ton of chicken, it's cheap, versatile, healthy and truth be told I like it. I'm also not adverse to eating some of the same meals more than once a week. My meals consist of a protein, starch and veggies.

Most think chicken doesn't reheat well, it doesn't if it's you use standard grill to table methods. You're a chef, you can probably put out some damn tasty chicken in no time flat but heated the next day. Meh.

Here is a post I made a few days ago

The idea is to cook the chicken to a point where it's just cooked, maybe even short since it's still releasing juices. I think mine is probably a bit underdone, I don't know since I can't slice it. When you seal it in to cool all those juice are reabsorbed as well as putting the final touches on the cooking process. After reheating mine you still have juices flowing out of the chicken. Moist and tender.

I'll marinate or season 3 breasts three different ways and cook them. Once the process I describe is done I slice the chicken.

I will grill a batch of mixed veggies, asparagus or even some fresh corn. Just getting a bit of a char on it for flavor but still crunchy. When you reheat they'll get a bit more tender.

I will make one starch or a few. Some flavored rice, maybe even a processed box type (sorry!!). Roast some potatoes in a variety of seasons or make some pasta. these are all cooked through and tend to reheat well.

I portion my meals with a scale, I'm a little OCD that way. I'll put 10 grains of rice form one container to another so it they are all 12.7 ounces. What I have is 5 good meals, at times all the same, others maybe up to 3 varieties. Pop them in the microwave for 2 minutes and have a nice hot meal where the ingredients aren't overcooked.

Think the same way, season some protein for fajitas, cook and slice it, add some Mexican/Spanish rice with grilled veggies throw in a few tortillas and you got Cinco De Mayo in September!!

I pin the crap out of stuff in Pinterest, I use it exclusively for recipes. Really, meal planning is key.

With winter approaching, that is if you're in the Northern Hem, think soups and stews. Here is a freezing post I made. I'll make a batch of Gumbo, Chili or a Creole and freeze portions. If you follow this method no burn.

The containers are reusable ones I bought off of Amazon that are marketed specifically for meal prep. They're kind of like the containers you would get a Chinese food entree in. I expect these to keep for about a week and a half or so, and I will be reheating in the microwave.

Freshware 15-Pack 3 Compartment Bento Lunch Boxes with Lids - Stackable, Reusable, Microwave, Dishwasher & Freezer Safe - Meal Prep, Portion Control, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GH5KQLO/ref=cm_sw_r_oth_apip_nwM2vbBbdLsNG

LIFT Certified BPA-Free Reusable Microwavable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, 28-Ounce, 7 Pack (Includes Ebook) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0128YT76S/ref=cm_sw_r_oth_apip_aolRSnwdmSHs2

I live alone and use a 6-quart cooker. Add these to your shopping cart, and you'll have a freezer full of delicious dinners in no time.

"Is it worth it?" is always such a personal question, so I'm sorry if my answer isn't as decisive as you're looking for. I'll try to tailor my response to your budget concern.

Short answer: plastic containers will get the job done cheaper than glass in the short-term.

Your first purchase of plastic containers will be available for much cheaper than glass (e.g. [$11 for 7 containers] (https://www.amazon.com/Evolutionize-Healthy-Meal-Prep-Containers/dp/B0128YT76S) vs $5/pc for glass. You'll also be able to get much more variety and specialization for your dollar in plastic containers: rectangular, round, multi-compartment, etc. That means you'll have more options when planning your food, which should help vary your diet while still eating cheap.

You get what you pay for, however, and this is where the debate of plastic vs glass really turns into an investment in my opinion. Plastic will eventually scratch, retain odors, stain, warp, leak, and some people still have concerns about negative health impacts from ingesting plastics. Anecdotally, most people I know cycle through their plastic containers every six months

So now for your second purchase of meal prep containers, you'll either spend another $11 on plastic containers, or you'll look at glass. It's heavier, when it breaks it shatters, and it's much more expensive per piece. BUT, take care of it and it'll last much longer. The grommet will seal much better than plastic containers. You're no longer limited to cold foods and microwave heating because they're also oven-safe. I now use the IKEA glassware linked above and the glass doesn't have any indications of damage. The lid may wear out over time, but two years in mine are still going strong!

Call it $20 on plastic containers every year, or $30 up front that may need lid replacements every few years - your budget should make this decision for you.

These are the ones I picked up. I purchased two sets and have been very happy with them.

Amazon

There are roughly 4 billion options! These have worked well for me the last couple months.

Freshware Meal Prep Containers [15 Pack] 3 Compartment with Lids, Food Containers, Lunch Box | BPA Free | Stackable | Bento Box, Microwave/Dishwasher/Freezer Safe, Portion Control, 21 day fix (32 oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GH5KQLO?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

And

Evolutionize Healthy Meal Prep Containers - Certified BPA-free - Reusable, Washable, Microwavable Food Containers/Bento Box with Lids (7 Pack, Single Compartment, 28 Ounce) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0128YT76S?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Bacon and eggs.

Cook a steak or chop in a skillet, steam a veggie in the microwave at the same time. Add butter to everything. Make a sauce from your drippings with sour cream or heavy cream.

Visit Caveman Keto. He's got lots of casseroles that are easy to make on a day off, then package in meal prep boxes and freeze till you need them. It doesn't really take much time to do, and it makes your weekday meals almost instant. Make two or three recipes on a Sunday (while you're studying... it can be done) and you'll have lunches and dinners for a couple of weeks. I think Ruled.me has some of those recipes, too.

Start there and ask more questions as they come up. Be sure to read through the FAQ, and make a note about the amounts of electrolytes recommended. You don't need keto flu while you're studying. Plenty of salt. A little potassium and magnesium. Mostly salt.

I have these and they are pretty good. They are on sale right now on Amazon, 7 containers for $9.77. Can't beat that

Meal boxes?

https://smile.amazon.com/LIFT-Certified-BPA-Free-Microwavable-Containers/dp/B0128YT76S/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1473346088&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=meal+prep+containers&psc=1

LIFT Certified BPA-Free Reusable Microwavable Meal Prep Containers with Lids, 28-Ounce, 7 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0128YT76S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Nb6cAbBB1PQEW

Do not buy these containers. They're fine for a few weeks and washings but they crack and shatter super easily. I'll never buy them again.

I also own these and these hard ones. The single compartment ones I've ordered over and over (they're plastic, they start to show wear and tear and break down after a while. Also I just like fresh containers lol. I buy new ones evey 3 months or so) because they're so great. Never had one break on me and they're a great size. The hard plastic ones are also amazing. The Plastic is thick and not flimsy at all. They're smaller but I've had no problems with them either.

I just bought a Jaxx FitPack luchbox yesterday on Amazon. It comes with it's own containers and ice pack. A coworker has one and I've messed around with her containers to see what they're like and they seem pretty sturdy too IMO. It'll be here tomorrow so if you're interested I can update you on them when I actually have them in my hands.

I buy these:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0128YT76S?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00

holds about 350g comfortably, you could probably get 4-450g in there if you packed it above the rim. Dishwasher safe, and work good for your lunches too.

plus they're cheap. :)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0128YT76S

Here's an amazon link to a 7 pack with lots of good reviews! Not sure if this is what you're looking for exactly, but one compartment should be good for salads. It claims to be microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe, though I haven't got them yet to try out myself. Hope this helps! https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0128YT76S/ref=pd_aw_sim_79_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=C26S74AKJ794WXW5D0V2

I was thinking of reordering these from Amazon because my mom lost 3/7 of mine, but then I found similar ones for a better value at Sam's.

I think the brand was Snap Pak. 50 count for less than $20. Same quality and size. Slightly rounded out on the long sides. Highly recommend.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0128YT76S/

i just looked up food prep and this was the top rated one

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0128YT76S/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought these ones from Amazon: Lift Meal Prep Containers

I toss my lunch in my purses so I need to know my food won't leak and I prefer glass so I use Glass Lock & Lock containers.

r/MealPrepSunday always recommends containers from Amazon like this.

Myself and a couple other people use the 750ml glass rectangular Pyrex containers. I think I got mine for $2 each from Marshall's, which is good for glass containers.

I think the Lift containers (e.g. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0128YT76S) are pretty popular, and I think I've heard that Costco has them even cheaper than Amazon if you have a membership (I haven't checked myself though)

I personally don't recommend the Sistema containers. Each container has five pieces you have to take apart to clean (main piece, lid, rubber gasket, and two clip pieces), and there are too many areas (such as under the lip of the main piece) that stay dirty. After a year of using them daily, I'm looking at getting either these or these.

I use these:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0128YT76S/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

We've been using them for years, and they're pretty much the only tupperware I'll buy now. If something is too big to fit in one container, I break it up, which ends up making us more likely to eat it.

I have this one. Bought it in April and use it everyday Mon-Fri. I use these containers and these ice packs.

I meal prep and store my food in these containers and only these containers. I've been using them since January and have only had one break. They freeze and microwave well, so I just eat straight out of the packaging. Maybe get a couple packs so you can use them as plates or bowls if you decide to make something else, and you can still use them for tupperware as needed.

They also store well because they fit together very snugly, unlike other bulky tupperwares.

*edit: how much room do you have for storage in your van? I want to renovate a van like this as I travel often and sleep in my car to save money, and I was hoping to take out all of the backseats and mounting my futon to the back, perhaps lofting it for storage and a fridge(?) underneath.

Also, perhaps get a yeti cooler to keep things hot if you make hot food and plan on eating it later?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0128YT76S/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480363801&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=lift+bpa

Have you checked Amazon?

[I got them from Amazon](LIFT https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0128YT76S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_voMhyb1K10ACN)

Yes they are and the link is below.
I do believe that a person could find similar or better ones for much less through a restaurant supply store as they seem to be fairly similar to the take home boxes. But these are a good quality and clean very well and have held up to my meals and reheating the past month.

Healthy Meal Prep Containers - Certified BPA-free - Reusable, Washable, Microwavable Food Containers with Lids (7 Pack, 28 Ounce) with Meal Prepping Ebook https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0128YT76S/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_ZNh-wbS075ZAP

I don't take my meals outside of the house either, but I think it's worth it for a few reasons.

You cook once instead of multiple times a day, and you know the calories for that meal.

I have my whole meal in one container. Next week I think I'm going to make burrito bowls so I'll put lettuce and tomatoes in a baggie to mix in after it's heated.

I'd say either a combo of both or go with the non compartment ones. I bought these https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0128YT76S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_ECY59RPjUcuyH and they're pretty good.

I have a few for you that I think you could handle. First a couple of tips. if you are only feeding yourself. then recipes for 4 should be cut in half. only the ingredients not the cooking times. If you like them make sure you can freeze them and make a full batch. buy yourself some freezer containers you can freeze your own homemade dinners in. Such as these:

for things like spaghetti casserole etc...
[Single Compartment meal prep containers large]
(https://www.amazon.com/LIFT-Certified-BPA-Free-Microwavable-Containers/dp/B0128YT76S/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1486741306&sr=8-5&keywords=single+compartment+meal+prep+containers)

I have these ones.. They can go straight from the freezer to the micro, and right into the dishwasher. (top rack) they are GREAT!
[1 and 2 compartment meal prep containers]
(https://www.amazon.com/Meal-Prep-Haven-Compartment-Containers/dp/B011SUKOHE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1486741653&sr=8-2-spons&keywords=meal+prep+containers+2+compartment&psc=1)

now for soups and stews etc.. these are great but will melt in the micro if you nuke them more than 55 seconds at a time. They Will NOT leak!
[soup stew and broth containers]
(https://www.amazon.com/Glotoch-Ounce-Storage-Containers-Proof/dp/B01EFFYTQG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1486742017&sr=8-2&keywords=16+ounce+deli+container)

I have not tried these but I will probably get some
[Round Meal Prep]
(https://www.amazon.com/Prep-Naturals-Containers-Leakproof-Plastic/dp/B01I8AQPNY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1486741830&sr=8-1&keywords=round+meal+prep+containers+microwavable)




a couple more tips. buy garlic already minced in the jar, also you can buy chopped onion at the grocery store but it will cost a bit more. will work though until you get the hang of chopping your own.

First lets start with Rotisserie chicken. they are cheap and will make at least 2 to 4 meals. depending on how many you want to feed. you can pick up some boxed mac and cheese, maybe some betty Crocker au gratin or scalloped potatoes to have with the chicken. then the remainder of the chicken can be pulled from the carcass. any full pieces you can put into the meal prep containers with leftover side dishes for lunch etc.. for the remainder of the meat. pick it as clean as you can. toss the carcass. Later you can learn how to make your own broth with it. but that is for another time. (or you can give it to your mom to make broth...)

the rest of the meat, put into a zip lock bag and freeze it for later. this meat can be used in soups, casseroles, tacos burritos etc..

I will post some recipes below for your chicken leftovers.

these could be nice for appy's, served to your friends? or for a dinner or just snacks. and you don't have to use the whole wheat tortilla either.
[Baked Pizza Taquitos]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/LNYznIZ/baked-pizza-taquitos-baker-mama/)







Leftover Chicken recipes
These Freeze well
[Black Bean Garnachas]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/MK9iKnW/black-bean-garnachas-diabetic-cooking-ch/)

this is made in the crock pot. and it doesn't make a whole bunch. you could probably eat it all in 2 settings if you are a big eater.

If you don't have one, get one they are not expensive. Walmart has them for 18 dollars most of the time. but you do want to get a 6 quart, as most recipes are geared towards that size and you won't have to scale a recipe down to fit in your crock pot.

[Creamy Beef Potato Stew]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/wxM21qf/creamy-beef-potato-stew-better-homes-gar/)

you don't have to get the mini meatballs for this. you can cut the full size ones in half, they would work just fine.
[Dump and Bake Meatball and Casserole]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/Yx8LVNH/dump-and-bake-meatball-casserole-theseas/)

side dish, these can be done in the oven at 350 for about 20 minutes
[Parmesan Potatoes and carrots]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/wKjymk0/grilled-parmesan-potatoes-and-carrots/)

[Hamburger Cabbage Casserole]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/fB1SAxZ/hamburger-cabbage-casserole-betty-crocke/)

[Overnight Meatball and Pasta Casserole]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/4GAvJYy/overnight-meatball-and-pasta-casserole/)

These Freeze well
[Porcupine meatballs]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/FlLxY9L/porcupine-meatballs/)

this is a soup that is easy to put to gather and you can use either ground beef, or leftover cooked beef such as pot roast or even steak if you want.
It makes a HUGE amount it is also freezable.

[Qiuck and easy Vegetable Beef Soup]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/7zH7VLX/quick-and-easy-vegetable-beef-soup/)

another very simple soup (this doesn't make so much, and is also freezable)
If you don't like kale use spinach or any other green you do like.

[Susage, Kale and Bean soup]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/EXR9lnq/sausage-kale-and-bean-soup-cooking-light/)

this is simple you make a couple of sides, mix this sauce and cook the thighs wow! and freezes fine too.
[Honey Mustard chicken]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/vAbBkGb/semis-honey-mustard-chicken/)

Leftover spaghetti with meat sauce can be made into a very filling Spaghetti pie, by adding just a few things. the tricky part is placing the plate face down over the small skillet and turning the spaghetti out onto it then back into the pan uncooked side down to finish. it is so worth it though.

[Spaghetti Pie]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/AdMUHXJ/spaghetti-pie/)

[Pizza Casserole]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/uP5lKqZ/pizza-casserole-by-ars-melissa/)


for some of that leftover chicken,
[Caesar Chicken pasta Casserole]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/oMxBZtR/caesar-chicken-pasta-casserole-land-o-la/)

[Chicken Alfredo Casserole]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/US6M7TC/chicken-alfredo-casserole-i-dont-remembe/)

[Adobe Chicken Wraps]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/qOBhAzW/adobe-chicken-wraps-betty-crocker/)

[Chicken Enchilada Foil packs]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/KjYpFms/foil-pack-chicken-enchiladas-kraft/)

Not sure why they call this Turkey Chili since it's made with chicken? but looks good and its fast. would also be freezable.

you could use some of your cooked chicken for this recipe, about 2 cups cut up.
[Fast Turkey Chili]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/hRHclj0/fast-turkey-chili-recipe-from-wwwmyrecip/)


another use for those meatballs. it's good easy and mostly opening cans and measuring seasonings. and is freezable too.

[meatball Stone Soup]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/lURnA2d/meatball-stone-soup/)

Don't be afraid of this one. it's easier than it looks and comes to gather pretty quick. it will not freeze well though because of the half & Half. but it is soo good and doesn't make a ton.

[Zuppa Toscana]
(https://www.copymethat.com/r/lURnA2d/meatball-stone-soup/)

I better quit or they will delete this post and you won't get any of these recipes. Good Luck! I hope some of these will work for you!

True... Maybe you can just use this

I bought a pack of seven on amazon for $10. Here’s the link!

I use the black-bottomed take-out containers from Amazon (link).
I like them over regular tupperware containers because you get so many of the same size (I'm often prepping 8-10 meals at once), so they stack well in the freezer. I could buy more durable ones, but that would cost more money. A lot of the time I feel like I use something like this for a while, then decide that I'd like a different size. Or I stop freezing meals for a while.

This way I can use these for a few months, stack them neatly in the freezer and then recycle them when my needs change, and I'm only out $10.

Full disclosure, I work from home now, so I'm in the enviable position of having a full-size fridge at my disposal all the time.

Depending on what you do during the day, you could keep food in a work fridge or in a cooler with a cold pack in it. Like the second photo at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Evolutionize-Healthy-Meal-Prep-Containers/dp/B0128YT76S/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1523290175&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=food+prep+containers&psc=1

Although it sounds like you might be UK based?

Anyway, I would do:

1. Add in protein powder (peanut butter flavor?) to oatmeal
   
   
2. Depending on how much protein you need, keep the greek yogurt or greek yogurt + 1/2 scoop of protein powder or whatever + some fruit or granola for carbs
   
   
3. Add chicken or cooked egg whites to carrots; add in some fruit for carbs, or a piece of bread/toast
   
   
4. Lunch sounds good
   
   
5. Apple, protein shake, peanut butter (to fit fat macros)
   
   
6. Meat and veggies, add rice/grains/fruit as needed
   
   For shelf stable protein, you can either lean into protein powders, add in tuna like you said, or maybe do beef jerky or hardboiled egg whites. (Still, could be a lot of eggs depending on how much protein you get.)
   
   
   Today's a training day for me, but here's what I'm eating:
   
   (1) Waking: 1 1/2 scoops egg white protein mixed with iced coffee, 4 rice cakes
   
   (2) 9:30 Training: 1 1/2 scoops whey protein with 16 oz. Gatorade
   
   (3) ~1hr post workout: 4 oz. cooked chicken with salsa, 2-3 cups broccoli with lemon and salt (all my fats are at the end of the day right now), 60g jellybeans (because it's best to eat sugar during the post-workout period and also PMS)
   
   (4) Mid-afternoon: Something like (4 oz. chicken plus an apple plus cut red pepper), (more protein powder mixed into oatmeal plus cut red pepper), (more protein powder mixed with water plus apple plus red pepper)
   
   (5) Dinner: Probably ground turkey meat in taco seasoning, with a little cheese and 2 small corn tortillas, or over rice, plus peppers on the side--or skip the cheese and do cut veggies plus some veggie dip for fats if I'm sick of peppers (this is just what we have in the house today)
   
   (6) Bedtime: 1 1/2 scoops casein mixed with water to make a pudding, plus 40g peanut butter and some blueberries (in the pudding) or plums for carbs
   
   
   I realize it's a lot of protein powder, between whey, casein, egg white...but also, if it makes your life easier and you can afford it? Just try it out and see how you feel. It's shelf stable, you can down it with water, so it's great for traveling or if your job has you in the car a lot.
   
   Egg whites cook into oatmeal really nicely. They don't really have a taste, and you can get those refrigerated cartons of just egg whites (at least where I live) which makes it really easy to measure out. Then just mix in whatever else flavors fit your macros--peanut butter, cinnamon, vanilla, berries/fruit, whatever. You can just add the egg whites to the oatmeal before you microwave it. I like to stop it every so often and stir it together for texture uniformity.
   
   Oh, also, you could get protein bars to help supplement some of the mid-day meals. Like a Clif protein bar plus carrots--shelf stable and probably fits your macros. I think it's like 20g protein per bar...
   
   Does any of that help?
   
   
   
   

Try these if you are an Amazon.com type of person:
https://www.amazon.com/Evolutionize-Healthy-Meal-Prep-Containers/dp/B0128YT76S