You may be aware of the impact that plastic has on the environment. According to the Natural History Museum, all of the plastic in the world weighs twice as much as all animal life combined. Not only that, but plastic production is responsible for around a sixth of the world's industrial carbon dioxide emissions, making it a contributor to climate change.
Many of us are trying to cut down on plastic waste, and your kitchen can be a great place to start. Using clingfilm for your packed lunch or food storage may be convenient, but it will stick around long after you're finished with it as it takes hundreds of years to degrade. Tin foil is recyclable, but producing it uses more water and energy than plastic does, and it emits tons of greenhouse gases.
But there is one natural product that's eco-friendly and both cheap and convenient: the beeswax food wrap. Here's what you need to know.
What is beeswax food wrap?
Made from organic cotton coated with beeswax, organic jojoba oil and tree resin, beeswax wrap is an alternative natural food wrap and claims to have antibacterial properties.
Though it's not recommended for use with raw meat, it can be used as the lid to cover bowls or plates of food or to wrap fruit, vegetables, bread, cheese, herbs, baked goods and other food products, for on-the-go convenience.
How does beeswax food wrap work?
The warmth of your hands softens the bees wax and its tacky texture allows it to be moulded around a container or to stuck together to package food. It's washable, reusable and compostable and the durability of cotton means it won’t tear.
How long does food wrapped in beeswax wrap last?
How long food lasts depends on what it is, but you can keep beeswax food wraps in the freezer for up to three weeks. Due to the supposed “breathable” quality of the wraps, the freshness of frozen food should be monitored.
How do you care for beeswax food wrap?
Each brand gives specific instructions on how to care for their beeswax wrap but most suggest the same advice: wash with cool water and gentle soap, then leave to air dry and store appropriately, preferably flat to prevent creasing the wax too much, though folding is also fine.
Avoiding any source of heat, from hot water to the microwave, prevents the wax from melting. It's designed to last for up to a year if taken care of properly and is fully recyclable, as well as biodegradable and can be added to a compost heap, rather than usual landfill, when you’re done.
How long is beeswax food wrap reusable for?
Most beeswax wrap can last for up to a year, possibly longer if well looked after. Some research suggests that wraps can be 'refreshed' by re-melting the wax in the oven. Place on a baking tray and set to to the lowest temperature to do this — around five minutes should be enough. Proceed with caution as this method isn't suitable for all wraps and it can melt the wax beyond repair.
Beeswax food wraps
Set of 4 Beeswax Food Wraps
Foxy Food Wrap Natural Reusable Beeswax Food Wraps
Natissy Organic Fabric Wax Food Wrap
Moonmoon Beeswax Wraps
WAFE Beeswax Food Wrap Set of 3
Swizzle and friends Mixture for making beeswax wraps
100% Natural Reusable Beeswax Food Wraps
