Max. capacity
The largest volume of the container supplied with the kit. For sets (see "Type") in this case, the capacity of the largest container is indicated, for all other types — the actual nominal volume. Useful volume may be somewhat less, because. not all containers and not in all cases can be stuffed “under the very lid”. However, this difference is small, and this figure characterizes the capacity of the product well.
Estimating the amount of food that can fit inside, we can proceed from the fact that 1 liter of volume approximately corresponds to 1 – 1.2 kg of soup or a tightly packed product (for example, mashed potatoes) or 700 – 800 g of food, divided into pieces and not packed very tightly (for example, fried potatoes or salad). A large container takes up more space, and too little food can hang around inside, which usually does not contribute to safety. Therefore, too large a volume is just as undesirable as too small.
Dimensions (HxWxD)
Container dimensions in height, width and depth; for round containers (see "Shape") after the height, only one size is indicated — the diameter. Information about the dimensions allows you to evaluate the proportions of the container (in models of the same volume, they may be different) and determine what specific space it will need.
Functions
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Use in the microwave oven. Possibility of using the container in a microwave oven. Far from all materials are suitable for such ovens: for example, metal cannot be put there in principle, some plastics are not heat-resistant enough, and some containers do not pass microwaves well and heat up more than the contents themselves. Therefore, for use in microwaves, it is worth choosing models for which such a possibility is directly stated.
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Vacuum. Containers allowing the possibility of vacuum packaging. A mandatory feature of such models is a hermetically sealed lid equipped with an air evacuation valve. Pumping is carried out using a pump, which may or may not be included in the delivery, there are also models where the role of the pump is played by a mechanism built right into the lid; these features for each model should be specified separately. Anyway, vacuum storage promotes preservation and kills most of the bacteria, which, in particular, can lead to spoilage of the contents. This function is especially convenient for long-term storage, it allows you to "extend the life" of even perishable products. On the other hand, not all products tolerate vacuum well (for example, soft vegetables can burst from internal pressure).
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Foldable. Containers are able to significantly reduce their size when not in use. This is mainly achieved by reducing the heigh
...t. The principle of operation is telescopic — each next section is slightly smaller and slides into the previous one.
— Latched lid. A lid fitted with latches to secure it to the container. This feature significantly increases the reliability of the lid — it will not fly off, even if the container is turned over. In addition, latches contribute to the tightness of closing, although they are far from always able to provide full tightness.
— Setting the date on the lid. The presence of a mechanical "calendar" on the lid that allows you to set a specific date — for example, the day of packaging, or the expiration date of the contents. This feature allows you to easily control the residence time of the products in the container.
— Hinged lid. The presence in the design of the container of a lid fixed directly on the container — as a result of which such a lid is not removed when opened, but leans back (hence the name). The convenience of such covers lies in the fact that, unlike traditional removable ones, they are practically not lost. In addition, when opening, you do not need to look for a place where to put the lid — this is especially convenient in the case of lunch boxes (see "Type"), from which people often eat right at the workplace or in other poorly adapted environments. Although most models with hinged lids are still classic containers. The disadvantages of such designs are some bulkiness and the inability to open the lid in cramped conditions.
— Carrying handle. The presence of a special carrying handle in the design of the container. This handle is usually placed on top, like in a bucket, but there are also models with a side handle that resemble cups. Anyway, this function makes it easier to hold the container in your hands, which is important, first of all, with a large capacity, with an inconvenient shape for carrying (for example, in the form of a round “barrel” of great height) or if there is hot contents inside, which noticeably heated up the outer walls.Country of origin
Country of origin of the brand under which food containers are marketed. Usually, it is indicated by the "homeland" of the manufacturing company or by the location of its headquarters.
There are many stereotypes associated with the “nationality” of brands and products, but most of them have no basis nowadays. First, the actual place of production is often different from the brand's country of origin. Secondly, the quality of the goods depends not so much on geography, but on the policy of a particular company and how carefully this very quality is controlled in it. Therefore, you should pay attention to the country of origin of the brand only if you fundamentally want or (do not want) to support a manufacturer from a certain state. Quality is best judged by the reputation of a particular brand and the general price category.