![]() There are few single-use plastics as single-use as a Ziploc bag filled with bloody, thawing meat. Not only is the production of these plastic-based materials problematic, but disposal is even worse. Plastic wrap is made from polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC)-which are all petroleum-derived and made using an energy- and chemical-intensive process. Saran Wrap contains vinyl chloride, which is considered to be one of the worst toxic additives-for both our bodies and the planet. Let’s not forget the most well-known concern with plastic: Bisphenol A, or BPA.īPA is a weak synthetic estrogen that can also lead to several health concerns, including endocrine disorders, reproductive issues, hormone imbalances, infertility, metabolic disorders, cancer, and increased risk for cardiovascular disease, to name just a few.Ī number of plastic storage containers now include BPS or BPF as replacements for BPA but these are also proving to be considered unsafe. Many types of plastics contain plasticizers, which are known to be high in phthalates-a group of chemicals known to pose a range of health concerns, including cancer, hormone disruption, and reproductive issues. Potentially causing more food waste aside, there are several reasons why you should think twice before reaching for plastic next time you need to freeze meat. Let’s see how we can make these food preservation strategies even better-by saying “peace out” to plastic. So you may be wondering how to freeze raw meat without using tin foil or plastic wrap… In fact, it can actually even help cause more food waste. Freezer paper is often used in combination with some of the other options because it preserves the meat, holds the juices, and can be placed in a bag or wrapped in aluminum foil for even better storage.ĭon’t get us wrong, we commend any efforts to prevent food waste but unfortunately, a 2018 study found that plastic packaging might not even prevent food waste. Then there’s freezer paper, a heavy-duty paper coated on one side with plastic. This utilizes a plastic film but preserves meat for long periods of time without risk of freezer burn. This is only advisable for short-term freezing because it’s not as air-tight as some other options-unless you suck extra air out using a straw.įor fancy meat-eaters, an at-home vacuum sealer is also often used. There’s also the lazy approach of freezing meat directly in the wrapping it came in from the supermarket. They can work for a short period of time but are prone to cracking and breaking as they get brittle in cold, freezer temperatures. However, it’s limited by its ability to only work a short time, as holey or improperly sealed aluminum foil can lead to freezer burn and messy thawing. Plastic cling wrap and plastic Ziploc bags are found in nearly all kitchens and are typically used to store both raw and leftover meat like chicken breasts, sausage links, ground beef, and steak fillets.Īlthough it doesn’t work as well, aluminum foil is also a common choice for storing meat in the freezer. ![]() Because of the higher bacterial risk meat poses, people often resort to disposable storage solutions rather than worry about thoroughly cleaning something reusable. Plastic is-and has been for decades-the premier choice for food preservation. Whether you’re pescatarian, paleo, or protein-lover, let’s take a bite out of some zero waste meat freezing techniques. Our planet may be at steak-but we can help it by figuring out how to freeze steak properly (and without plastic). Preserving food and preventing food waste is all the more important with animal products, especially considering their environmental impact is far greater than that of other types of food. If you eat meat, part of that will mean learning how to freeze meat without plastic (see our video below on non-plastic storage options). Our kitchen has become a testing ground for figuring out how to flavor kombucha, trying our hand at apartment composting, and learning how to preserve food at home. Perhaps like many people, you’ve run into a big obstacle in this department: freezing meat without plastic wrap or freezer bags. Congratulations on exploring ways to go plastic-free!Ĭhances are you’re already implementing some zero waste tips. Which likely means you’re also starting to tackle the hefty challenge of cooking up a zero waste kitchen.
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