Are you considering swapping out your old plastic containers for something more durable, versatile, and eco-friendly? Look no further than Glass Food Storage containers. While plastic options might seem convenient, glass containers offer a superior solution for keeping your food fresh, safe, and your kitchen organized. Unlike plastic, glass containers, especially those made of tempered or borosilicate glass, can effortlessly transition from freezer to microwave, oven to table, making them incredibly versatile. Their nonporous surface is a game-changer, preventing the absorption of stubborn odors and unsightly stains that plague plastic containers.
With a vast array of choices available, selecting the perfect glass food storage containers can feel overwhelming. It’s important to consider your specific needs, from intended use and size to lid design and set inclusions. To simplify your decision, we’ve rigorously tested a wide selection of top-rated glass food storage containers.
How We Tested Glass Food Storage Containers
Our comprehensive testing process involved hands-on evaluation of over 20 top-rated glass food storage containers in various shapes and sizes. We put these containers through their paces in real home kitchens and our dedicated Testing Lab. We used them to store a variety of leftovers, exploring their performance in the refrigerator, freezer, microwave, and oven. Cleaning was also a key aspect, with each container cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. To truly assess durability, we integrated these storage containers into our daily routines, scrutinizing the materials and noting any signs of wear and tear.
We Observed
- Food Freshness: Beyond everyday use, we conducted a controlled “freshness test.” We placed half a peeled and pitted avocado (cut side down) in each container, sealed it, and refrigerated it for three days. Afterward, we carefully examined the avocado’s appearance and documented the results to gauge each container’s ability to maintain food freshness.
- Material Quality: We assessed stain and odor resistance by storing foods known for these issues, like curry and tomato sauce. We evaluated how easily these stains and odors were removed. We also considered the portability of each container, judging their weight and size for travel and commuting. Crucially, we monitored for any damage, such as chips in the glass or impacts from microwave, dishwasher, or oven use.
- Versatility and Design: We looked for practical design features like stackability and nestability to optimize refrigerator and cabinet storage. We also tested each container’s freezer performance over extended periods and their microwave compatibility.
We Rated
- Durability: Durability is paramount for long-lasting food storage. We prioritized containers made from tempered, borosilicate, or other durable glass types. Our rating focused on the robustness of both lids and bases, assessing glass thickness and lid closure ease.
- Ease of Cleaning: Dishwasher safety was tested by regularly washing dishwasher-safe containers as per manufacturer guidelines, noting any warping or damage. We also hand-washed each container to identify hard-to-clean areas or food particle retention in lid crevices.
- Performance: Leak-proof performance was assessed by filling each container to capacity with water, sealing it, shaking for one minute, and measuring any leakage. We also evaluated the versatility of each set’s size options to determine if they accommodated both small and large storage needs.
Our Top Picks for Glass Food Storage
After rigorous testing, we’ve identified the best glass food storage containers across various categories:
Best Overall:
Glasslock Assorted Oven Safe Container Set at Amazon $54
Best for Meal Prep:
SALE
Prep Naturals Glass Meal Prep Container Set at Amazon $43 $36
Best for Leftovers:
Pyrex Circular Glass Storage Container Set at Amazon $18
Best for Lunch:
W&P Porter Seal Tight Glass Bowl at Amazon $25
Best for Freezer:
Bentgo Glass Leak-Proof Food Storage Set at Amazon $75
Best Large:
Razab Extra Large Glass Food Storage Containers at Amazon $35
Best Bake and Store:
Pyrex Glass Baking Dish with Lid at Amazon $20
Best Stackable:
SALE
Rubbermaid Glass Food Container Set at Amazon $80 $64
Best Small:
OXO Good Grips Smart Seal Glass Container Set at Amazon $33
Best with Glass Lids:
Caraway Food Storage Set at Amazon $245
Best for Display:
Le’raze Glass Kitchen Canisters at Amazon $35
Detailed Reviews of Our Top Glass Food Storage Container Picks
Best Overall: Glasslock Assorted Oven Safe Container Set
Glasslock Assorted Oven Safe Container Set at Amazon $54
$60 at Target
$108 at Wayfair
What We Love:
- Oven-, microwave-, and dishwasher-safe for ultimate convenience.
- Crafted from durable, BPA-free glass for health and longevity.
- Visually appealing design enhances kitchen aesthetics.
Keep in Mind:
- Lids can be initially stiff to secure, requiring a bit of practice.
The Glasslock 18-piece set stood out in our tests, earning our “Best Overall” title for its comprehensive food storage solutions. This BPA-free set includes a variety of round and rectangular containers in multiple sizes, all with matching lids. Their microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher compatibility makes them exceptionally versatile for any kitchen.
Performance-wise, the lids offer a secure seal, preventing leaks and maintaining food freshness, whether for leftovers or prepping ingredients. We were impressed by their even heat distribution in both oven and microwave, eliminating hot or cold spots when reheating. Cleaning is a breeze, either in the dishwasher or by hand, though lid crevices may require extra attention to prevent food buildup. Despite storing strongly flavored foods, no residual scents remained after washing. Hand drying is recommended to avoid water spots and maintain their pristine appearance.
Type of Glass: Tempered | Quantity: 18-piece set | Lid Type: Plastic, snap-tight
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Alt text: Glasslock 18-Piece Assorted Oven Safe Container Set, best overall glass food storage.
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Alt text: Assortment of Glasslock glass food storage containers showcasing different sizes and shapes.
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Alt text: Glasslock 18-Piece Set neatly arranged on a countertop to illustrate kitchen organization.
Best for Meal Prep: Prep Naturals Glass Meal Prep Container Set
Prep Naturals Glass Meal Prep Container Set at Amazon $43 $36
View on Kroger.com
What We Love:
- Constructed from durable borosilicate glass for enhanced resilience.
- Features a divided interior, perfect for portion control and meal separation.
- Vented lids facilitate easy cooling and prevent pressure buildup.
- Leakproof design ensures mess-free transport.
Keep in Mind:
- Compartments are not individually sealed, contents can mix if tilted.
- Lids are not dishwasher-, microwave-, or freezer-safe, requiring separate handling.
As the name suggests, the Prep Naturals set excels in meal preparation. Each container features two compartments, allowing you to portion and separate meal components efficiently. With a 29-ounce capacity each, and divided sections of different sizes, they’re ideal for pairings like sandwiches and sides.
While the containers are microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher safe, the lids are not. A vent on the lid allows steam release for hot foods or pressure release when cooling. We successfully reheated various meals, including shepherd’s pie, mashed potatoes, and chicken alfredo. Made from robust borosilicate glass, these containers are oven-safe up to an impressive 840 degrees Fahrenheit. Lids are easily hand-washed, while containers are dishwasher-safe for convenience.
Type of Glass: Borosilicate | Quantity: 5-pack set | Lid Type: Vented plastic with smart lock
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Alt text: Prep Naturals Glass Meal Prep Container Set, best for meal prepping with divided compartments.
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Alt text: Prep Naturals Glass Meal Prep Container filled with strawberries, blueberries, and grapes, perfect for healthy meal prep.
Best for Leftovers: Pyrex Circular Glass Storage Container Set
Pyrex Circular Glass Storage Container Set at Amazon $18
$18 at Walmart
$26 at Wayfair
What We Love:
- Stain- and odor-resistant glass keeps containers looking and smelling fresh.
- Durable, high-quality tempered glass ensures longevity.
- Dishwasher-, freezer-, and microwave-safe for versatile use.
Keep in Mind:
- Lids are not microwave safe despite some packaging claims.
The Pyrex Circular Glass Storage Container Set is ideal for stashing leftovers. This six-piece set (containers and lids) includes three sizes: 2-cup, 4-cup, and 7-cup, providing options for various leftover quantities. Made from tempered glass, these containers are freezer, microwave, and preheated oven safe, enabling seamless reheating. The tempered glass construction is robust and oven-safe at any temperature.
Our tests showed the 4-cup container to be leak-proof during commutes. A minor drawback is that the containers can become hot to the touch after microwaving, easily managed with pot holders. Containers are dishwasher-safe, while plastic lids, though advertised as microwave-safe, are best avoided for microwaving. Lids are top-rack dishwasher safe and made in the USA.
Type of Glass: Tempered | Quantity: 6-piece set (lids and containers) | Lid Type: Plastic
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Alt text: Pyrex Circular Glass Storage Container Set, a classic choice for leftover storage.
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Alt text: Microwaving food in a Pyrex Circular Glass Storage Container, demonstrating its microwave-safe feature.
Best for Lunch: W&P Porter Seal Tight Glass Bowl
W&P Porter Seal Tight Glass Bowl at Amazon $25
View on Wandp.com
What We Love:
- Microwave and dishwasher safe for everyday use.
- Available in convenient sizes for portioned lunches.
- Stylish design adds a touch of elegance to your lunch.
- Protective silicone sleeve provides grip and safeguards the glass.
Keep in Mind:
- Not insulated, requires refrigeration to maintain coolness.
- Higher price point compared to basic containers.
Elevate your lunch experience with the stylish and functional W&P Porter Seal Tight Glass Bowl. These silicone-lined glass bowls come in attractive colors, are completely leakproof, and microwave-safe. Perfect for side salads and snacks, their bowl design is ideal for eating directly from the container, making them excellent for work or school lunches. However, lacking insulation, refrigeration is necessary to keep contents cool.
Available in 16 and 24-ounce sizes, they are travel-friendly and leak-proof, ideal for tossing into lunch bags or backpacks. Rounded edges simplify cleaning, either by hand or dishwasher, and the silicone sleeve enhances grip. While pricier, the robust borosilicate glass and thoughtful design ensure long-term durability.
Type of Glass: Borosilicate | Quantity: 1 container with lid | Lid Type: Ceramic coated glass
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Alt text: W&P Porter Seal Tight Glass Bowl, a stylish and practical glass food storage for lunch.
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Alt text: Close-up of W&P Porter Seal Tight Glass Bowl showcasing its silicone sleeve and glass construction.
Best for Freezer: Bentgo Glass Leak-Proof Food Storage Set
Bentgo Glass Leak-Proof Food Storage Set at Amazon $75
$45 at Macy’s
View on Bloomingdales
What We Love:
- Heavy-duty glass containers for freezer durability.
- Airtight and leakproof lids for secure freezing.
- Microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe for ultimate convenience.
Keep in Mind:
- Lids can be challenging to snap on initially.
- Set lacks a very large container size for bulk freezing.
The Bentgo Glass Leak-Proof Food Storage Set combines aesthetics with exceptional functionality, making meal prep more enjoyable. This eight-piece set (four containers and lids) is visually appealing and highly practical. Available in white stone and coastal colorways, the white stone option blends seamlessly with any kitchen decor.
Beyond aesthetics, these containers are incredibly functional, suitable for freezing fruits, vegetables, soup stock, and leftovers like lasagna and casseroles. While lids can be stiff to snap on, this ensures airtight and leakproof seals. No broth leaked during our tests, even when held sideways. The set includes various sizes, from 12.8 to 50.4 ounces. Microwave-safe (with vented lids) and oven-safe up to 950 degrees Fahrenheit, they are also dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
Type of Glass: Borosilicate | Quantity: 8-piece set (lids and containers) | Lid Type: Tempered glass, plastic, and silicone
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Alt text: Bentgo Glass Leak-Proof Food Storage Set, ideal for freezer storage due to its leak-proof design.
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Alt text: Bentgo Glass Leak-Proof Food Storage Set in white stone color, showcasing its aesthetic appeal.
Best Large: Razab Extra Large Glass Food Storage Containers
Razab Extra Large Glass Food Storage Containers at Amazon $35
View on Razab.com
What We Love:
- Heavy-duty glass construction for large quantities.
- Airtight and watertight lids for secure transport.
- Microwave-, oven-, and dishwasher-safe for versatile use.
Keep in Mind:
- Heavy, may not be ideal for everyday transport like desk lunches.
For large-batch cooking and family meals, the Razab Extra Large Glass Food Storage Containers are perfect. These containers are ideal for make-ahead dinners, freezing bulk ingredients, and storing stock. Airtight and watertight, they are transportable for potlucks and parties. However, their heavy-duty glass makes them bulky for daily commutes.
The set includes 27-ounce, 40-ounce, and 74-ounce containers, accommodating substantial quantities. Microwave and oven-safe up to 932 degrees Fahrenheit, they are great for both baking and roasting. Dishwasher-safe containers and lids ensure easy cleanup.
Type of Glass: Borosilicate | Quantity: 6-piece set (lids and containers) | Lid Type: Plastic, silicone-sealed
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Alt text: Razab Extra Large Glass Food Storage Containers, ideal for storing large family-sized meals.
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Alt text: A selection of Razab glass food storage containers showing their various large sizes.
Best Bake and Store: Pyrex Glass Baking Dish with Lid
Pyrex Glass Baking Dish with Lid at Amazon $20
$15 at Walmart
$19 at Wayfair
What We Love:
- Microwave-, oven-, freezer-, and dishwasher-safe glass dish for ultimate versatility.
- Tight-fitting lid for secure storage and transport.
- Easy to clean glass construction.
Keep in Mind:
- Not ideal for storing liquids due to potential for spills if tilted.
The Pyrex Glass Baking Dish with Lid is your go-to for make-ahead meals. This 2-quart dish is perfect for casseroles, bread pudding, and more. Prepare dishes in advance, refrigerate with the lid, and bake later. Also great for mac and cheese, marinating meats, and storing leftovers. We tested it with baked chicken, pasta, and roasted vegetables, finding its size ideal – large enough for cooking, yet slim for storage. The tight-fitting lid makes it potluck-friendly for transporting various dishes. Microwave-safe for reheating. However, it’s not optimal for liquid-heavy dishes.
The glass dish is microwave, preheated oven, refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher safe. The lid is top-rack dishwasher safe.
Type of Glass: Tempered | Quantity: 1 container with lid | Lid Type: BPA-Free plastic
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Alt text: Pyrex Glass Baking Dish with Lid, a versatile bake and store glass food container.
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Alt text: Pyrex Easy Grab Glass Baking Dish with Lid showcasing its use for storing cooked vegetables.
Best Stackable: Rubbermaid Glass Food Container Set
Rubbermaid Glass Food Container Set at Amazon $80 $64
$42 at Walmart
$70 at The Container Store
What We Love:
- Clear lids for easy content identification.
- Versatile set for various storage needs.
- Leak-proof design maintains food freshness.
- Keeps food exceptionally fresh for longer durations.
Keep in Mind:
- Lids feature only two locking tabs, less secure than four-tab designs.
The Rubbermaid Glass Food Container Set is the glass counterpart to the popular Rubbermaid Brilliance plastic containers, featuring tight-locking lids and stackable design. While heavier than plastic, this set is excellent for leftovers and meal prep. Dishwasher, microwave, freezer, and oven safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, we even baked a small casserole in the largest container.
This set includes various sizes, from 1.3-cup to 8-cup containers with matching lids. We were impressed by their food freshness preservation in both fridge and freezer. The clear containers and lids allow for easy content visibility. A minor drawback is the two-tab lid design, compared to more secure four-tab lids, but it didn’t impact food quality in our tests.
Type of Glass: Tempered | Quantity: 9 containers with lids | Lid Type: StainShield plastic
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Alt text: Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass Food Container Set, known for its stackable design and clear lids.
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Alt text: Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass Storage Set neatly stacked, showcasing its space-saving feature.
Best Small: OXO Good Grips Smart Seal Glass Container Set
OXO Good Grips Smart Seal Glass Container Set at Amazon $33
$33 at Home Depot
$33 at Oxo
What We Love:
- Ideal for storing leftover sauces and dressings.
- Stackable design for efficient storage.
- Leakproof seals prevent spills and messes.
- Measurements printed on the bottom for easy reference.
Keep in Mind:
- Higher price point for a smaller set.
From kitchen favorite OXO, the Good Grips Smart Seal Glass Container Set offers small yet versatile storage solutions. This set includes various small containers, perfect for leftover sauces, dressings, lemon wedges, and garlic cloves. The 4-ounce containers are excellent for lunch packing, while the small round containers prevent food waste by storing small portions.
Measurements and brand markings on bases and lids simplify identification in crowded drawers. While smaller in size, this set is ideal for smaller households or as a supplement to larger container collections. Despite its size, it comes at a comparable price to larger sets.
Type of Glass: Borosilicate | Quantity: 6 containers with lids | Lid Type: Plastic locking tab
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Alt text: OXO Good Grips Smart Seal 12-Piece Glass Container Set, perfect for small portions and leftovers.
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Alt text: OXO Good Grips Smart Seal Glass Container used to store half an avocado, demonstrating small portion storage.
Best with Glass Lids: Caraway Food Storage Set
Caraway Food Storage Set at Amazon $245
$245 at Target
$245 at Home Depot
What We Love:
- Available in multiple stylish colors to match kitchen décor.
- Clean lines and elegant design enhance kitchen aesthetics.
- Includes inserts for versatile storage options, like bento-box style organization.
Keep in Mind:
- Heavy construction due to glass and ceramic materials.
- Can leak, not ideal for liquid storage.
The Caraway Food Storage Set offers attractive glass containers with ceramic-coated bases and glass lids. Ideal for fridge and pantry storage, they are perfect for mushrooms, lettuce, stir-fry, avocado halves, flour, popcorn kernels, and cornstarch. Stackable and spacious, they include small pods that nest inside larger containers, creating bento-box style compartments for sauces.
Rounded inner corners simplify cleaning, preventing food buildup. The glass and ceramic construction makes them heavy, less suitable for travel. Not recommended for liquids due to leak test performance. Condensation buildup on lids was noted during testing, a purely aesthetic observation.
Type of Glass: Ceramic coated | Quantity: 5 containers with lids, 4 inserts, and lids | Lid Type: Ceramic coated glass
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Alt text: Caraway Food Storage Set featuring glass containers and glass lids for a seamless look.
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Alt text: Caraway Food Storage Container Set filled with black beans, showing its use for pantry storage.
Best for Display: Le’raze Glass Kitchen Canisters
Le’raze Glass Kitchen Canisters at Amazon $35
View on Lerazedecor.com
What We Love:
- Attractive design perfect for countertop display.
- Wide openings accommodate measuring spoons easily.
- Crafted from lead-free glass for safe food storage.
Keep in Mind:
- Not recommended for liquid storage.
- Lids require hand washing, not dishwasher safe.
The Le’raze Glass Kitchen Canisters are designed for countertop appeal with rustic bamboo lids. These spacious canisters are ideal for dry goods like pasta, beans, and flour, enhancing pantry organization. Airtight bamboo lids maintain food freshness, though testing showed they are best suited for dry goods, not liquids.
Made from heat and cold-resistant borosilicate glass, these multipurpose canisters are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. The set includes five sizes for varied pantry items. A minor downside is the hand-wash requirement for the bamboo lids.
Type of Glass: Borosilicate | Quantity: 5 containers with lids | Lid Type: Bamboo with silicone ring
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Alt text: Le’raze Glass Kitchen Canisters with bamboo lids, perfect for displaying on kitchen countertops.
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Alt text: Lidless Le’raze Glass Kitchen Canisters showing the wide opening and borosilicate glass.
Final Verdict
Our top recommendation for overall excellence in glass food storage is the Glasslock 18-Piece Assorted Oven Safe Container Set. Its durability, simple design, aesthetic appeal, and even reheating capabilities make it a standout choice. For a modern, visually stunning set with glass lids, the Caraway Glass Food Storage Set is an exceptional option.
What to Look for in Glass Storage Containers: A Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right glass food storage containers involves considering several factors:
Purpose
Glass storage containers are versatile, ranging from lightweight options for lunches to heavy-duty containers for baking and freezing. Consider your primary use:
- On-the-go lunches: Opt for lighter containers.
- Baking and freezing: Choose heavier, treated glass containers.
- Dry goods storage: Lighter, untreated glass is sufficient.
The intended storage also dictates the lid type and seal needed.
Lid Type
Most glass containers use silicone or plastic lids.
- Snap-on lids: Leak-proof, ideal for travel and liquids.
- Silicone or glass lids: Plastic-free alternatives.
Microwave safety varies; check specifications for lid compatibility if microwaving with lids.
Capacity
Sizes range from small (baby food) to large (lasagna dishes). Capacities are usually listed in cups or ounces, with dimensions in inches.
- All-purpose sets: Look for varied sizes for diverse leftovers.
- Dry goods: Consider shelf life and usage to choose appropriate sizes, avoiding oversized containers for small quantities of spices or flours that expire quickly.
Safety
Glass types vary in heat and cold resistance:
- Tempered and borosilicate glass: Designed for heating and freezing without shattering.
- Untreated glass: Suitable for fridge or room temperature storage, but requires careful thawing before heating and is not oven-safe.
- Treated glass: Oven-safe to around 425 degrees Fahrenheit (check manufacturer’s limits).
Types of Glass Storage Containers
Understanding glass types helps in choosing the right containers:
Untreated Glass
Soda-lime glass is common and inexpensive, used in jars, bottles, and basic containers. Suitable for fridge or room temperature storage. Not ideal for freezing or heating due to potential breakage.
Tempered Glass
Tempered soda-lime glass withstands wider temperature ranges and is less likely to shatter. If broken, it fractures into small, safer pieces. Used in car windows and oven doors, as well as food containers.
Borosilicate Glass
Borosilicate glass contains boric oxide, offering superior thermal shock resistance compared to tempered glass, but is more costly. Tempered glass is generally sufficient for most kitchen needs unless extreme temperature changes are frequent.
FAQs About Glass Food Storage
Can glass food storage containers go in the oven and freezer?
Yes, depending on the glass type. Borosilicate glass offers the best thermal stability. Tempered glass is also freezer and oven-safe but requires care to avoid temperature shock. Ensure containers are at room temperature before freezing or heating to minimize stress and prevent shattering. Generally, oven-safe to 425 degrees, but always verify product guidelines. Lids are typically not oven-safe.
Are glass food storage containers better than plastic?
It’s a matter of preference. Glass is oven-safe, durable, but breakable. Plastic is light, easy to store, but stains, degrades with microwave use, and has a shorter lifespan. Glass can last years with proper care, reducing waste. Plastic is lighter and more portable.
Why Trust The Spruce Eats?
The Spruce Eats employs experienced writers and editors with culinary expertise and product testing backgrounds. Our product reviews are based on rigorous testing methodologies conducted in home kitchens and dedicated labs. We prioritize providing accurate, reliable, and helpful content to assist readers in making informed purchasing decisions. Our team includes professionals like Brigitt Earley, a seasoned product tester and culinary arts graduate; Katherine Gallagher, an associate editor with extensive restaurant industry experience; and Donna Currie, a cookbook author and kitchen storage expert. Our commitment to high-quality sources and editorial integrity ensures trustworthy recommendations.
