Reusable Food Containers

Are you considering using your own reusable food container at a grocery store or a restaurant? Are you interested in reducing the number of single-use containers that end up in landfills? Ottawa Public Health has some food safety tips to help you avoid the risk of food-related illness while you are living your zero-waste lifestyle.

First things first: Make sure the grocery store or restaurant you are visiting allows you to bring and use your own food containers. It is up to each individual business to come up with their own policy about the containers they allow.
The right container: It is important to use a container that can be easily cleaned and sanitized. Sanitizing will kill any germs that may remain after cleaning. Follow the cleaning and sanitizing steps below. The food container should also be in good condition; no cracks or open s seams and does not rust.
Keeping ’em clean: Don’t use a dirty or unwashed container. Clean and sanitize each container you want to use every time before and after you use it. There are two ways to do this:

• Clean your container in your dishwasher, or
• Follow these 4 steps:

1. Clean the container and the lid with hot water and soap
2. Rinse the container 
3. Sanitize the container by soaking them for 45 seconds in one of the following:
   • a chlorine solution of 1 teaspoon of bleach per litre of water 
   • clean hot water no colder than 77^oC (170^oF) 
4. Air dry on a clean surface

Prevent cross-contamination: Bacteria are invisible to the naked eye. Containers might look clean but may still be carrying bacteria. Don’t let scoops or spouts touch your container and don’t set the container down in the food when filling it. Never put any food from your container back into a food bin. Remember to use separate containers for raw meats and ready-to-eat food items.
And don’t forget! Wash your hands with warm soapy water before eating or starting your meal preparation.