A week of packed lunches with less plastic

Packed lunches make weekdays easier and can cost less than buying lunch out. Yet the row of scratched plastic boxes may be ready for a rethink. Here is a routine using durable containers and reusable wrapping, from Sunday cooking to the last lunch of the week.

The basic setup: three useful parts

Steel for the bag. A robust steel box with a suitable seal is useful for transport. Glass for the microwave. Leftovers can go in microwave-safe glass; check the lid and dishwasher instructions too. Beeswax wraps for the rest. Wrap sandwiches, suitable cheese, fruit or half an avocado using the warmth of your hands. See how to use beeswax wraps. The material comparison is in lunch boxes without plastic. Check seals and lids if you want to avoid particular materials completely.

The Sunday routine: prepare five lunches

1. 1
   Make extra portions of two dishes

   A stew and an oven dish can give variety without spending the whole day cooking. Choose quantities for the number of lunches you need.

2. 2
   Cool promptly in portions

   Divide food into shallow portions to help it cool and refrigerate promptly according to the dish's storage guidance. Do not leave a large hot pot standing on the counter until completely cold. Keep reusable wax wraps away from hot food.

3. 3
   Fridge for the first lunches, freezer for later

   Many cooked dishes have a refrigerated window of around 2 to 3 days, but some need a shorter time. Freeze later-week portions promptly and thaw in the fridge the night before. Follow the shortest safe storage guidance among the ingredients.

4. 4
   Keep dry sides separate

   Pack nuts, croutons and bread separately in suitable wraps or containers so they do not soften against the main dish before lunch.

Lunches you will look forward to eating

Build each box around flavours you enjoy: a wholegrain base, beans or another protein-containing dish, and something tangy or crisp added at lunchtime. Separate wrapping protects dry sides. Store the bread for soup suitably at home and pack only what you need. For the outing version, see a packed lunch without plastic. Keep perishable lunches chilled during transport as well as at home.

Frequently asked questions