Meal Prep Buying Guide

Meal prep is becoming increasingly popular as more and more people seek to take control of their diets and save time and money preparing meals for the week. The key to successful meal prep is having the right tools and equipment. In this meal prep buying guide, we’ll explore the essential tools you need to get started with meal prep and how to choose the best products for your needs.

Meal Prep Containers

One of the most important tools for meal prep is containers. Meal prep containers are food storage containers that allow you to portion and pack your meals in advance. They come in different sizes, shapes, and materials. Here are some essential factors to consider when choosing meal prep containers:

Size and Shape

The size and shape of the meal prep container you choose should be determined by the type of food you plan to pack. For instance, if you’re packing a salad or soup, you may want a shallow container with a snap-on lid to prevent leaks. If you’re packing a sandwich or wrap, consider a long and rectangular container.

Material

Meal prep containers can be made of plastic, glass, or stainless steel. Each has its advantages and disadvantages:

• Plastic containers are lightweight, durable, and affordable. However, they tend to stain and can retain odors over time.
• Glass containers are great for microwaving meals since they’re oven safe. They’re also durable and don’t retain odors or stains. However, they’re heavier and more expensive than plastic containers.
• Stainless steel containers are long-lasting, dishwasher safe, and easy to clean. However, they’re not microwave safe and tend to be more expensive than plastic and glass containers.

Portable Utensils

If you’re bringing your prepped meals to the office or on-the-go, you’ll need portable utensils. Portable utensils are compact, lightweight utensils that can be easily packed in a bag or purse. They come in different varieties, including:

• Plastic utensils: They’re the most affordable and widely available option. However, they’re disposable and not environmentally friendly.
• Bamboo utensils: They’re reusable, sustainable, and have a natural look and feel. However, they’re not dishwasher safe and can attract mold over time.
• Metal utensils: They’re durable, long-lasting, and dishwasher safe. However, they tend to be heavier and more expensive than other options.

Blender or Food Processor

Whether you’re making smoothies or prepping veggies, a quality blender or food processor is an essential tool for meal prep. Here are some key things to look for when shopping for a blender or food processor:

Power and Capacity

The power and capacity of the blender or food processor will determine how quickly and efficiently it can blend or process food. Look for a product with a high wattage for the best performance. In terms of capacity, choose a product that suits your food prep needs. If you’re only prepping a small amount, a compact blender or food processor may be a good choice. However, if you’re prepping for a large family, consider a product with a larger capacity.

Blades and Attachments

The blades and attachments on a blender or food processor should be versatile enough to handle a variety of tasks. Some blenders come with interchangeable blades, while others have single blades that are multi-purpose. Additionally, some food processors come with attachments such as shredders, slicers, and graters.

Noise Level

Some blenders and food processors can be quite loud. If you plan to use your blender or food processor in the morning or in an office, you may want to choose a product with a lower noise level.

Kitchen Scale

A kitchen scale is an essential tool for precise measurements when meal prepping. A scale allows you to measure ingredients as precisely as possible, which is essential for recipe accuracy and portion control. Here are some things to consider when shopping for a kitchen scale:

Capacity

The capacity of a kitchen scale is the maximum weight it can measure. Choose a product with a capacity that suits your meal prep needs. If you’re measuring large quantities of ingredients, a scale with a high capacity is a good choice. However, if you’re measuring small quantities, a scale with a lower capacity may be all you need.

Accuracy

The accuracy of a kitchen scale should be within 1 gram. Some scales are more accurate than others, so be sure to read reviews to see how accurate a product is.

Display and Controls

The display and controls on a kitchen scale should be easy to read and use. Some scales have backlight displays, while others have touch controls.

Basic Kitchen Gadgets

When meal prepping, you don’t want to spend a lot of time chopping, mixing, or peeling ingredients. Having some basic kitchen gadgets can help you save time and simplify the prep process. Here are some essential gadgets to consider:

Mandoline Slicer

A mandoline slicer is a kitchen gadget that allows you to slice fruits and veggies quickly and precisely. Some mandoline slicers come with different attachments for different types of cuts, such as julienne or waffle.

Vegetable Peeler

A vegetable peeler is a simple but essential tool for prepping veggies. Choose a product with a comfortable grip and durable blade for the best performance.

Garlic Press

A garlic press is a handy gadget that saves you from chopping garlic by hand. Choose a product with a sturdy construction and easy to clean.

Conclusion

Meal prep can save you time, money, and help you maintain a healthy diet. Choosing the right tools and equipment is essential for successful meal prep. Choose meal prep containers based on size, shape, and material. Consider the portability and material of your utensils. Select a blender or food processor with high wattage, versatile blades and attachments, and low noise level. Choose a kitchen scale based on capacity, accuracy, and ease of use. Lastly, have some basic kitchen gadgets on hand to simplify prep work. With these tools, you’ll be well on your way to meal prep success!