RE-USABLE ALTERNATIVES TO CLINGFILM
Clingfilm, or plastic wrap, or cling wrap, or saran wrap, or whatever you like to call it - the thin stretchy stuff that sticks to itself food wrap that has become a ubiquitous part of packed lunches and fridges everywhere.
In fact, unwrapping sandwiches wrapped in clingfilm is now a compulsory part of the pre-school curriculum*.
Although as a stretchy plastic, it is technically recyclable in some parts of the world, it very rarely is due to contamination with food. So the vast majority of it ends up in the bin.
Not what we want.
So what are the alternatives for keeping leftovers fresh, and sandwiches all in one piece?
1. TUPPERWARE
Yes, still plastic, but not single use, which is the key!
Pack your sandwiches carefully, maybe keep them wedged in place with a bit of fruit, and off you go.
Just don't give them any space to move around or you'll end up with bread and filling in different areas, which isn't really what a sandwich is all about.
The biggest challenge you may face is finding the right lid for the right tub...
2. FOIL
More readily and easily re-used and recycled, this is a better option than clingfilm, but isn't idea in terms of resource use etc. However if you're looking for baby steps to wean you and the family away from the sticky plastic stuff, this is a good one to take.
Wipe off any for residue after using, fold and stash away again until it starts to become full of holes, and then pop it into your recycling bins with the tin cans.
3. BEESWAX WRAPS
The internet is going crazy for beeswax wraps..
You can buy them from somewhere like this, or you can easily make your own - my lovely friend Wendy at Moral Fibres did a great how toand it looks super easy!
You can use them to wrap sandwiches, cover bowls of leftovers, or even make little pouches for things like crisps or chopped up veg.
4. COTTON SANDWICH WRAPS
Produced by Eco Snack Wrap, and ethically made in India from 100% cotton, these can be put in the freezer, re-used infinitely, and washed in the washing machine. And the wrap opens up to make a handy little placemat too!
5. AGREENA 3 IN 1 WRAP
Made of food-grade silicon these sheets act like clingfilm but can be washed and re-used, and then recycled at the end of their life.
