Durbl Life Stories

If it's been a while since you last bought new food storage containers, now is the time to upgrade. Durbl offers high-quality silicone bags and containers to keep your leftovers fresh and free of harmful chemicals.   Why Choose Durbl Containers? Durbl products are safe and eco-friendly, made from food-grade silicone. They ensure safe food storage while being durable and environmentally conscious.   Top Containers for Leftovers Durbl Lunch Box: Inspired by bento boxes, perfect for complete meals with separate compartments, microwave-safe, and easy to clean. Durbl Silicone Bags: Reusable, available in various sizes, ideal for storing, freezing, and preserving food, and a great alternative to single-use plastic bags. Ready to upgrade your food storage? Choose Durbl for the best containers to keep your leftovers fresh. Shop today to find the perfect solutions, and don't forget to check out our water bottles to stay hydrated.

As Ocean Day approaches, we need to reflect on how to protect our oceans. Globally, the oceans face severe challenges such as plastic pollution, climate change, and overfishing. Here are some ways we can contribute to protecting the oceans:Reduce plastic usePlastic pollution is one of the main threats to the oceans. We can start by reducing single-use plastics in our daily lives. For example, use reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and containers. Reusable durbl silicone bags are a good choice. Not only can they be used many times, but they can also effectively prevent pollution. Participate in community clean-up activities to help remove trash from beaches and waterways. Support sustainable fisheriesOverfishing puts excellent pressure on marine ecosystems. Choose to buy seafood with sustainable certification and support responsible fishing practices. Learn which fish are endangered and avoid eating these fish to help protect marine biodiversity.Reduce carbon footprintClimate change leads to ocean acidification and rising sea levels. We can mitigate climate change by reducing our carbon footprint. Choose low-carbon transportation methods such as walking, cycling, and public transportation; minimize energy consumption and use energy-saving appliances; support the development of renewable energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.Spread knowledge about marine protection.Education and awareness-raising are essential parts of protecting the ocean. Spread the importance of marine protection through social media, community events and educational programs. Encourage more people to take action to protect the sea and jointly maintain the balance of aquatic ecology.Support marine protection organizations.Many non-profit organizations are dedicated to marine protection. We can support the work of these organizations by donating, volunteering and participating in their activities. The efforts of these organizations are essential to protecting the marine ecological environment.Protecting the ocean is not just the responsibility of experts; everyone can contribute to the future of the sea through their actions. At the upcoming Ocean Festival, let us act together and use environmentally friendly products such as Durbl reusable bags to do our part to protect our blue planet.

Every year, millions of tons of plastic waste fill our landfills and oceans, harming the environment and health. However, with some simple changes, we can significantly reduce this waste. Here are some easy and eco-friendly swaps for everyday single-use plastics.Straws and UtensilsTakeout food is a staple of modern life, but single-use plastic straws and utensils contribute to plastic pollution. Switch to reusable stainless steel, bamboo, or other eco-friendly utensils and straws. Carry a set with you to avoid using disposable ones.Coffee Cups and Water BottlesDisposable coffee cups and water bottles are significant sources of plastic waste. Invest in a durable, stylish, reusable coffee cup and water bottle. Many coffee shops offer discounts for using your cup. A reusable water bottle is healthier and more cost-effective than buying bottled water.Plastic Bags and ContainersPlastic bags are a well-known environmental hazard. Replace them with Durbl silicone food storage bags and containers. These can be used in dishwashers, refrigerators, microwaves, and ovens, making them versatile and eco-friendly. They are perfect for keeping food fresh and preventing leaks and ideal for travel and daily use. Cling Film and Aluminum FoilCling film and aluminum foil generate a lot of waste. Use beeswax wraps instead; made from cotton, beeswax, and plant oils, they are reusable and keep food fresh. Using silicone baking mats as a sustainable alternative to aluminum foil reduces waste and saves money.Female Hygiene ProductsDisposable female hygiene products, such as plastic pads and tampons, create significant plastic waste. Consider using menstrual cups, washable pads, and period underwear. These options are not only eco-friendly but also healthier and more economical.Reuse Existing PlasticsDon't discard single-use plastics immediately. Repurpose them at home, such as using plastic bags as trash liners. Proper recycling is crucial; ensure plastics are recycled correctly to minimize environmental impact.We can drastically reduce plastic waste and protect our planet by adopting these simple swaps. Every small change makes a big difference, so let's work together for a more sustainable future. Choose eco-friendly options and embrace a greener lifestyle.

A day in the sun and sand doesn’t need to rely on disposables. When we think of a picnic, we often think of lots of plastic-wrapped food, disposable utensils, and paper towels. But with a few simple swaps, you can help pack a trash-free beach picnic for an unforgettable beach picnic.Step 1: Prepare your foodPack up a variety of treats with Durbl’s reusable silicone bags. Sandwiches, salads, fruit slices, and snacks can be stored securely in these bags. The Durbl bags’ excellent seal keeps sand out and keeps food fresh.Easy food ideas:Sandwiches: Place turkey, cheese, lettuce, and tomato on whole-wheat bread in a Durbl silicone food storage bag.Fruit salad: Place sliced watermelon, cantaloupe, grapes, and blueberries in a Durbl lunchbox to keep the fruit fresh and tender.Energy bars: Make peanut butter oatmeal energy bars ahead of time and store them in a Durbl bag for a quick and easy meal. Step 2: Portable CoolerFill a Durbl large-capacity silicone bag with ice to create a portable cooler. Ice keeps drinks and perishables cold, making it ideal for a beach picnic. Cooler Ideas:Cold Drinks: Fill a Durbl quart bag with ice and your favorite drink for an excellent, icy taste.Salads: Prepare a green salad and refrigerate it in a Durbl container to ensure it tastes fresh. Step 3: DIY Snacks and DrinksUse Durbl snack bags to create healthy snacks and refreshing drinks. Reusable Durbl bags are perfect for homemade popsicles and frozen fruit. Snack and Drink Ideas:Homemade Popsicles: Pour juice into a Durbl silicone bag, seal it, and freeze it to enjoy at the beach.Frozen Fruit: Freeze blueberry, strawberry, and mango chunks in a Durbl sandwich bag for a delicious summer snack.Iced Coffee: Make iced coffee at home in a Durbl quart size bag and enjoy it at the beach anytime. Step 4: Pack Out TrashOne of the fundamental principles of an eco-friendly beach picnic is to leave no trace. Take all trash with you, including food wrappers or disposable items. Durbl’s silicone bags are reusable and washable, so you can easily clean them after use to avoid adding to beach trash. We recommend bringing a sizeable Durbl gallon bag to collect trash or pick up litter.Have a few extra Durbl bags to store wet swimsuits, keep your phone dry, or store leaky items like sunscreen.By incorporating Durbl’s reusable bags into your beach picnic plans, you can positively impact the environment while enjoying delicious food and drinks. Pack responsibly, reduce waste, and adopt reusable alternatives for a more eco-friendly beach experience.

We've all faced this situation: you’ve just finished cooking a delicious meal, but there are leftovers, and you wonder, "Can I put hot food in the fridge?" The answer isn't straightforward, but let's delve into why you should or shouldn't do it. Thermal Shock and Glass Containers Firstly, if you're using glass containers, you need to be cautious. Glass has a property known as thermal expansion. This means it expands when hot and contracts when cold. If you place a hot glass container directly into the fridge or freezer, it can experience thermal shock and potentially shatter. This risk is especially high with standard glass, but using borosilicate glass can mitigate the risk as it's more resistant to thermal shock. Still, it's best to avoid sudden temperature changes. Refrigerator Efficiency Putting hot food directly into the fridge isn't ideal for the appliance's efficiency. Hot food raises the fridge's internal temperature, making it work harder to cool down, which can affect its overall performance and longevity. This can also impact other foods stored in the fridge, potentially leading to spoilage. Food Safety Contrary to popular belief, placing hot food directly into the fridge is generally safe from a food safety perspective. The danger zone for bacterial growth in food is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C). Leaving hot food out to cool for extended periods can actually pose a greater risk than refrigerating it immediately. The key is to cool the food down quickly. You can do this by dividing it into smaller portions or placing it in shallow containers before refrigerating. Practical Tips Cool Down First: Allow food to cool slightly on the counter before placing it in the fridge. You can use an ice bath to speed up the cooling process. Use the Right Containers: Use shallow, wide containers to store food, which helps it cool faster. Opt for borosilicate glass or food-grade silicone like Durbl bags, which can handle temperature changes better. Avoid Overloading: Ensure there is enough space around containers in the fridge to allow air circulation for faster cooling. Conclusion So, is it bad to put hot food in the fridge? It depends on the circumstances. For food safety, it's generally okay, but consider the type of container you're using and your fridge's efficiency. Cooling food quickly in shallow containers or using an ice bath can mitigate many of the potential issues. Remember, keeping your food safe and your fridge running efficiently are both achievable with a few mindful practices.By following these tips, you can enjoy your leftovers safely and keep your fridge in good working order. Happy cooking and storing!

Sous vide cooking is an emerging home kitchen technique that involves vacuum-sealing food and cooking it in a temperature-controlled water bath. This method ensures perfect results every time, especially for thicker cuts of steak like filet mignon, ribeye, strip steak, and T-bone. Tools Needed: ● Sous vide machine or a large pot with a digital thermometer● Durbl silicone bags (Half Gallon or Quart size)● Tongs for handling hot bags Steps: 1. Prep: Preheat your sous vide machine to the desired temperature. Season your steak with salt, black pepper, herbs like rosemary or thyme, minced garlic, and a tablespoon of butter. Place each steak in a Durbl bag and use the water displacement method to vacuum seal the bag. 2. Cook: Submerge the sealed bags in the water bath, ensuring the steaks are fully submerged. Use silicone weights or clips if needed. Refer to the following sous vide steak time and temperature chart: ■ Rare: 120°F (49°C) - 128°F (53°C), 1 to 2.5 hours ■ Medium-Rare: 129°F (54°C) - 134°F (57°C), 1 to 4 hours ■ Medium: 135°F (57°C) - 144°F (62°C), 1 to 4 hours ■ Medium-Well: 145°F (63°C) - 155°F (68°C), 1 to 3.5 hours ■ Well-Done: 156°F (69°C) and up, 1 to 3 hour 3. Sear: Remove the bags from the water bath and take out the steaks. Heat olive oil or butter in a stainless steel or cast iron skillet on medium-high heat until it starts to smoke. Sear the steaks for about one minute on each side and quickly sear the edges. Serve immediately with your favorite sides. Tips: Use Durbl silicone bags for a safer, eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags. For best results, use thicker cuts of steak to prevent overcooking during the searing process. Sous vide cooking guarantees a juicy and perfectly cooked steak every time, making it an ideal method for home chefs aiming for restaurant-quality results.

Ensuring your refrigerator is set to the right temperature is critical to food safety and quality. Durbl recommends setting your refrigerator to 0°F (-18°C), which inhibits bacterial growth and keeps food fresh and nutritious.Why 0°F?This temperature inactivates harmful bacteria and slows enzyme activity, keeping food safe for longer.Maintaining Your OptimumKeep it Full: A full refrigerator will keep it colder than an empty one, and empty spaces will be filled with water bottles when necessary.Freeze quickly: Freezing food prevents ice crystals from forming, protecting food quality.Package correctly: Use airtight containers like Durbl sandwich bags to prevent freezer burn and keep food fresh. Food Safety and FreshnessFreezing effectively extends the shelf life of food and preserves its nutritional value. When freezing meat, poultry, and vegetables, be aware of the effects of enzymes, and low-acid vegetables should be blanched first.Optimal Freezer TemperatureThe optimal freezing temperature for keeping food fresh and safe is 0°F (-18°C). This temperature effectively slows or stops the growth of harmful bacteria, ensuring that the nutrition and texture of the food are not significantly affected. Enzymes in meat, poultry and fish are not harmed when frozen, while the acid in fruit neutralizes the enzymes. Low-acid vegetables must be blanched, partially cooked and quickly cooled before freezing. Different vegetables require different blanching times, so refer to the relevant guidelines before you begin. Nutrition and quality of frozen foodsUnlike other food preservation methods, freezing has little effect on nutritional content. Frozen foods are generally as nutritious as fresh foods. Freezing slows down the activity of enzymes, but it does not eliminate them, so some pre-treatment steps before freezing are essential.Tips for freezing foodsKeep the freezer about 75% full: it helps keep cold air circulating.Freeze foods quickly: prevents frostbite from forming and affecting food quality.Pack food properly: use airtight containers or silicone bags to prevent frostbite.Less open the door during a power outage: keep the refrigerator warm and ensure food safety.Place high-risk foods in the back of the refrigerator: ensure consistent temperatures and reduce the risk of foodborne illness. ConclusionBy setting the refrigerator temperature correctly and packaging food appropriately, you can extend the shelf life of food and ensure food safety and quality. Need food storage containers or reusable ziploc bags? Durbl offers a variety of eco-friendly, beautiful options to help you live sustainably. Visit the Durbl website to learn more.

When choosing food storage containers and kitchen accessories, it's vital to ensure that the products you select are suitable for food use. You may have come across the terms "food safe" and "food grade" but might not know their exact meanings or differences. These terms are not interchangeable. Food Grade vs. Food Safe: What's the Difference? Though they sound similar, "food grade" and "food safe" are distinct concepts. "Food grade" refers to the materials a product is made from. This means the material is safe to come into direct contact with food intended for human consumption. Food-grade materials are non-toxic and can be used within specific temperature ranges. However, being food-grade doesn’t necessarily mean the material is food-safe. Food Grade Food-grade materials are those allowed to touch food. They are non-toxic and suitable for use within a recommended temperature range. But remember, food-grade doesn’t automatically make it food-safe. Food Safe Food-safe products are made from food-grade materials and are designed for their intended use without causing any safety hazards. For example, a food-safe container meant for storing dry foods is safe for that purpose but shouldn’t be used for hot liquids. Think of it like this: all food-safe materials are food-grade, but not all food-grade materials are food-safe. Food-safe materials can safely contact food, while food-grade materials are only safe when used appropriately. FDA Regulations and Compliance The FDA’s Division of Food Contact Substances ensures that materials meet food-safe or food-grade standards. Products are FDA compliant as long as they are proven to be either food-grade or food-safe. What About “Non-Toxic”? Many products are labeled “non-toxic,” meaning they don’t contain harmful substances known to affect humans. However, this term isn’t as strictly regulated as food-safe or food-grade. While knowing a product is non-toxic is beneficial, you should still verify its food-safe or food-grade status. Choosing the Best The safest and most sustainable kitchen products are those labeled food-safe. This means they are made from food-grade materials and are safe for their intended use, minimizing potential hazards. Shopping for Sustainable Kitchen Products at Durbl At Durbl, we offer a range of reusable silicone bags and containers designed with your safety in mind. Whether you’re looking for bags to store frozen veggies or containers safe for microwave use, always check the manufacturer’s guidelines. Use containers only for their intended purposes to ensure safety. Why Choose Durbl? Our products are crafted from high-quality, food-safe materials. When you browse our selection, check the “Details” section for information on microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safety. The “Materials” section will tell you what the product is made from. At Durbl, we balance style, sustainability, and safety to create top-notch food and beverage containers for almost any use. Explore our collection today to find the perfect solutions for your kitchen! Upgrade your kitchen storage with Durbl's reliable, food-safe products and enjoy peace of mind with every meal.

In modern life, we all seek practical and eco-friendly solutions to simplify daily tasks. Durbl's silicone half-gallon food storage bag is a fantastic tool that is not only versatile but also helps reduce plastic waste. Today, I’ll introduce six ingenious ways to use this storage bag in everyday life, making you fall in love with its convenience and sustainability.1. Storing Leftovers from Family Meals We’ve all experienced the dilemma of having lots of delicious leftovers after a family gathering and not knowing how to store them. Durbl’s half-gallon silicone bag easily solves this problem. Whether it’s soup, stew, or sauce, this large-capacity storage bag can hold it all, keeping your food fresh. Simply place the leftovers in the bag, seal it, and store it in the fridge.、 2. Packing Healthy Lunches Preparing healthy lunches for yourself or your family on busy workdays can be a hassle. Durbl’s half-gallon bag can hold a variety of lunches, including sandwiches, salads, fruits, and nuts, making it easy to carry a delicious and healthy meal. Its airtight design ensures your food stays fresh and leak-free. 3. Preserving Fresh Fruits and Vegetables For those who love healthy eating, keeping fruits and vegetables fresh is crucial. Durbl’s half-gallon bag is the perfect preservation tool. You can store washed lettuce, spinach, broccoli, and berries in the bag and place it in the fridge to keep your produce fresh for longer. 4. Travel Essential When traveling, we often need to organize various small items. Durbl’s half-gallon silicone bag can help you manage this effortlessly. It can hold toiletries, small electronic devices, and medications, and its waterproof and leak-proof design keeps your luggage neat and organized. Lightweight and easy to carry, it’s a travel must-have. 5. Organizing Kids’ Toys and Crafts For families with children, Durbl’s half-gallon bag is also great for organizing small toys and craft supplies. You can sort and store your kids’ building blocks, crayons, and craft papers, eliminating the mess. The transparent design makes it easy to find what you need. 6. Baking and Cooking Prep Baking and cooking enthusiasts will love Durbl’s half-gallon silicone bag. You can pre-measure and store ingredients like flour, sugar, and spices in the bag, making them easy to access when needed. The bag is heat-resistant, so you can use it for microwave heating or defrosting, making cooking more efficient. Durbl’s silicone half-gallon food storage bag is not only versatile and practical but also eco-friendly. Whether storing food at home, traveling, or organizing household items, it can handle it all. Let’s embrace this innovative storage solution to add convenience to our lives while contributing to environmental protection. Explore more uses for Durbl's silicone half-gallon food storage bag today and make your life simpler and greener!