The neutral quality makes glass an ideal option for packaging as it does not react chemically with the food inside, keeping the taste and quality. Glass jars are made from a non-porous material(pure and chemically inert), which means they’re easier to clean. They also don’t break easily and can last for years. Using glass jars is also environmentally friendly since the material isn’t a pollutant.
Let’s have a look at the key points why glass jars and bottles are safe for food storage:
1. Borosilicate Glass
Borosilicate glass is a type of durable glass that is ideal for use in the kitchen and laboratory. It is non-toxic, durable, and resistant to thermal shock. Because of its unique properties, it is used to make scientific instruments and lab equipment. It is so versatile and widely used in the high-end restaurant industry.
The low solubility of borosilicate glass makes it less likely to absorb chemicals and leach them into the food. Additionally, it is more thermally stable, making it less likely to break from sudden temperature changes. This makes borosilicate glass a safer choice than other materials.
Despite its durability, borosilicate glass is not entirely bulletproof. However, it has a lower rate of expansion than other glass jars, which is why it is recommended for containers exposed to heat.
2. Non-porous Material
If you’re concerned about food safety, consider using glass containers instead of plastic ones. Not only is glass more environmentally friendly, but it can also be used for years.
Glass is a natural barrier against germs and chemicals. This means that your products will retain their aromas and flavour. It’s also much safer than plastic.
Plastic containers may leak toxic chemicals when you heat them, wash them, or put them in the dishwasher. That’s why glass is often recommended for the kitchen.
Glass is a very durable material, able to withstand hundreds of cleanings in a dishwasher. Also, it is inert, so it does not pick up smells or other harmful chemicals while in storage or transit.
3. Durability
Glass jars are an excellent way to store food and preserve your favourite recipes. This type of container is durable, practical and easy to clean. However, there are some things you need to consider before purchasing one.
One of the most important factors is the materials used to make the jar. Tempered glass is more durable and shatterproof than untreated soda-lime glass.
The jar should also be airtight. Having an airtight lid is essential if you plan to store microwaved food or if you want to keep your jars in the fridge.
Choosing the right glass jar will depend on the foods you intend to store. You’ll need to choose a jar that fits your budget and the kind of products you’ll be storing.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Glass jars have a lot of advantages over plastic containers ranging from ease of cleaning to food longevity. One of the big benefits of glass jars is that they can be recycled in a pinch. A recent study involving recycling a dozen glass jars showed that, on average, glass jars could be recycled hundreds of times. So, as the adage goes, don’t be fooled by the name. Glass jars aren’t disposable items. That said, the recycling rate could be better, and some glass jars are better than others regardless of which jars you choose, follow the glass jar etiquette. This will ensure you get the most out of your container for years.
5. Environmental Impact
If you’re deciding between glass and plastic jars for food, you’re probably wondering how they affect the environment. While it’s easy to think that plastic is more sustainable, you might be surprised that glass has some significant advantages over its counterpart.
The first advantage of glass is that it doesn’t interact with the food it contains, so it won’t leach chemicals into your product. Plastic containers, on the other hand, can quickly get into your food and seriously threaten your health.
Another advantage of glass is that it is non-porous, which means it does not absorb smells or chemicals. This makes it ideal for cleaning products, especially homemade products.
However, there are some downsides to glass. One is that it is more expensive than plastic. And glass containers are heavier. Also, they take more time to break down.
