Whether I’m packing snacks or storing chocolate chips in the fridge, I always find the need for plastic sandwich bags. It wasn’t until I realized I was going through boxes of the stuff that I had to ask myself, what are the environmental (and health) impacts of this? Turns out, there are a few.

Health-wise, most plastics contain harmful chemicals that may leach into your food. And, in regards to the environment, it is a massive source of pollution with a major concern being that marine life are ingesting and getting tangled up in them. According to onegreenplanet.org, “it’s estimated that by 2050, there will be more plastic than fish in our oceans.”

So, to be sustainable, I began reusing the plastic bags I had by washing them, but quickly realized the need for a more long-term, chemical-free solution. The answer was simple: reusable plastic bags.

After searching through Amazon I ordered from two brands.

The first one I purchased was Stasher Reusable Silicone Food Bag, Sandwich Bag, Sous vide Bag, Storage Bag, Clear. I love this one. It’s easy to clean, it’s a nice size for sandwiches and freezer safe.

The second item I purchased was rezip Lay-Flat Lunch Leakproof Reusable Storage Bag 5-Pack (Multi Color). According to the company, one (re)zip replaces up to 300 disposable baggies. I usually use these to store things in the freezer. I’ve found that when I store fruit in them, whether it’s a mango or watermelon, the color of the food stains the plastic. This doesn’t happen with the Stasher bags, so I’ve begun only storing dry things or maybe a half of an avocado in them. That aside, I like that they are as thin as traditional plastic bags, which makes carrying them around for emergencies a breeze.

Let me know if you have any other resuabale bag recommendations.

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