This is our most recent switch. For a long time I have wanted to reduce our cling film usage. Cling film is a great material for wrapping and storing food however the main issue with using cling film is it cannot be recycled so ends up in landfill. We try to use alternatives such as pots for storing or foil for wrapping but sometimes these are not the best option and foil still needs to be recycled.
Beeswax wraps are a fabric such as cotton coated with food-grade beeswax, rosin, coconut oil or jojoba oil. It can be moulded and grip around containers or food products. They can be washed and reused. If they begin to crack, they can be ‘warmed’ which will seal the cracks allowing it to be used again. When the wrap has lost its grip and is no longer useful, it can be composted. It is important to know that beeswax wraps are not suitable for all types of food e.g. raw meat, raw fish or other wet food items so this is when reusable pots can be used.
These types of wraps can help to reduce food waste too as they help to preserve as the natural ingredients they are coated with contain preservative properties. Also the material is breathable unlike plastic which helps food last longer.
You can get wraps in different sizes to suit your needs. To start with we have gone with a pack of three different sized wraps from BeeBee & Leaf I love the different designs available too. They have recently launched vegan wraps which are plant based.
The wraps do have quite a strong smell - like honey. I quite like it but my husband isn't so keen. This is something which should decrease the more they are used and washed and I haven't noticed any impact on the food it is wrapped in. I may investigate the vegan option to see if they smell differently.
Overall I am really pleased with this switch. The different sizes are useful for different purposes, they are easy to mould around a variety of foods or bowls and they keep food fresh. I will definitely be expanding our collection!