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Better Than Sistema: Food Storage Containers That Don't Feel Mass-Produced

Steve McClain

Steve McClain

Co-Founder @ Marmalade

Published on: November 18, 2024
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Let's face it - Sistema containers are everywhere. They're functional, sure, but they represent a utilitarian approach to food storage that feels increasingly out of step with modern kitchens. A new generation of brands is approaching food storage with fresh perspectives on materials, design, and functionality. We've found several alternatives that transform the mundane task of storing leftovers into something more intentional and aesthetically pleasing.

W&P
Porter Collection: Where Industrial Design Meets Kitchen Storage

Josh Williams and Eric Prum created W&P from a simple observation: kitchen essentials shouldn't look like they belong in a cafeteria. Their Porter collection reflects this philosophy through borosilicate glass containers wrapped in protective silicone sleeves that feel satisfying to handle.
We're intrigued by how W&P approaches sustainability through longevity. Their materials selection prioritizes durability, suggesting these containers could outlast several generations of plastic alternatives. The brand's broader collection, including items like their Cocktail Ice Tray Set, demonstrates how thoughtful design can elevate everyday kitchen items beyond pure functionality.

Why we like W&P

  • 1

    Premium Materials

    Borosilicate glass with protective silicone sleeves for durability

  • 2

    Thoughtful Design

    Aesthetically pleasing containers that enhance kitchen experience

  • 3

    Sustainability Focus

    Built for longevity to reduce plastic waste

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Anyday
Complete Set: The Microwave Cooking Revolution

Anyday isn't just offering an alternative to food storage - they're fundamentally changing how we use our microwaves. Their Complete Set features vessels specifically engineered for cooking from scratch in the microwave, with precisely calibrated steam vents and temperature management systems.
The science behind these containers is fascinating. The combination of borosilicate glass and silicone-rimmed lids creates an optimal cooking environment that maintains moisture levels and prevents the dreaded microwave explosion. While we haven't tested them ourselves, the brand's extensive recipe collection and cooking guides suggest these containers could help anyone unlock their microwave's full potential.

Why we like Anyday

  • 1

    Innovative Design

    Engineered specifically for microwave cooking

  • 2

    Temperature Control

    Precise steam vents and moisture management

  • 3

    Versatility

    Functions as both cookware and storage solution

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Cadence
Capsules: Magnetic Storage That Makes Travel Less Chaotic

After 207 prototypes and four patents, Cadence created something entirely new in the storage world. Their Honeycomb set features magnetic, customizable capsules that can hold everything from vitamins to small snacks. The hexagonal design isn't just for Instagram - it's a practical solution for keeping items organized and accessible.
These containers showcase impressive material engineering. The medical-grade construction prevents leaks and contamination, while the magnetic system keeps everything in place during transit. We're particularly interested in their closed-loop recycling program, where old capsules can be returned and transformed into new ones - a concrete example of circular economy principles in action.

Why we like Cadence

  • 1

    Magnetic System

    Keeps containers organized and secure during travel

  • 2

    Medical-Grade Materials

    Prevents leaks and cross-contamination

  • 3

    Closed-Loop Recycling

    Sustainable program for product lifecycle management

Abigail Barr

Abigail Barr

05/17/24

Keeps pills organized in such a stylish way!

E

Emily

04/24/24

Such a staple! There’s a reason they’re so popular. Functional, ecofriendly, cute, and keeping me sane during my hectic travels!

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Food Huggers
Set: Silicone Lids That Embrace Your Produce

Food Huggers tackled a specific kitchen annoyance - keeping half-used produce fresh - and created an elegant solution. Their silicone lids conform to the shape of cut fruits and vegetables, focusing on the exposed surface where oxidation occurs rather than trying to contain the entire item.
The genius lies in the simplicity. Instead of forcing produce into rigid containers, these flexible covers adapt to various shapes and sizes. We appreciate their stackable design and the fact that they're engineered without hard-to-clean crevices where bacteria might lurk. The lifetime guarantee reflects confidence in their durability, suggesting they're meant to become permanent kitchen tools rather than disposable accessories.

Why we like Food Huggers

  • 1

    Adaptive Design

    Flexible covers that conform to various produce shapes

  • 2

    Simple Maintenance

    No hard-to-clean crevices

  • 3

    Lifetime Guarantee

    Built for permanent kitchen use

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Stojo
Storage Set: Containers That Disappear When You Need Space

Three Brooklyn dads looked at their cramped kitchens and wondered why food storage had to take up so much space. Their solution? The Stojo Storage Set - containers that collapse down to a fraction of their size when not in use. The concept is brilliantly simple, but the engineering behind it is sophisticated.
The collapsible design addresses a real problem in modern kitchens where cabinet space is often at a premium. These containers feature a robust silicone construction that maintains its integrity through repeated use. While the space-saving aspect is impressive, we're equally interested in how this design makes the containers more likely to be used regularly rather than relegated to the back of a cabinet.

Why we like Stojo

  • 1

    Space-Saving Design

    Collapses to a fraction of its size when not in use

  • 2

    Durable Construction

    Maintains integrity through repeated collapsing

  • 3

    Practical Innovation

    Solves real storage problems in modern kitchens

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Moving Beyond Basic Storage

This evolution in food storage reflects broader changes in how we think about our kitchens and daily routines. Each of these brands approaches storage from a different angle - whether through innovative materials, space-saving designs, or entirely new functionalities. While Sistema serves its purpose, these alternatives demonstrate how even the most basic kitchen items can be reimagined to better align with contemporary needs and values.