Tupperware has come a long, long way in the last couple of decades. Made from the cheapest, most flexible, least toxic / erodible, most easily formed material available today - plastic - containers like this Lock & Lock Airtight product are now common place in kitchen cabinets across the UK. Back when I was a kid, you just didn't get anywhere near the same level of quality, nor the same physical features as these modern varieties procure. They are strong, secure, reliable and long-lasting. But most of all, they're reasonably priced. You can pick up one of these stack-able containers from Amazon.co.uk for £4.50.

FORM:
The container has a capacity of 1 litre and is a rectangular shape (to suit storage and packaged items which need to be kept within). The edges are rounded to increase safety, and the lid bulges slightly outwards to maximise the space inside. The most interesting aspects of the design are the containers air / water-tight seal and innovative 4 x locking mechanism, which clamps the lid securely down on each side. Made from a rugged plastic, the locks contain small slits which clip to lips on the bases sides. They clip down with a fair bit of pressure applied, and un-clip with slightly more finger-power. The whole lid is removable and there are no hinging elements. The entire container is transparent (allowing you to see what is within) besides the seal which is coloured blue and highlights the outline of the opening.

USE:
Due to their accurate, yet basic design, these containers will fit into tight spaces, saving on room. They are especially effective for use in fridges, where the plastic remains completely safe. According to the manufacturer, stacking these in fridges can save up to 40% on space (reiterated by Amazon).

I tend to use my Lock & Lock's for storing raw or cooked meats, and fresh fish. Due to their innovative seal and lock mechanism, no moisture, smell (air) can cross the material - they are 100% tight. Any strong smelling substance can be locked away securely - cheeses, vegetables, sweet snacks, etc. They also make excellent lunch boxes, extremely rarely coming open unnecessarily - if you secure it properly to begin with you'll have no trouble. It might well be difficult for children to open and close the box however, due to the locks - but I'm sure parents and teachers can lend a hand at lunch time.

You can even use them in microwaves and dishwashers, so the material and the design is truly multi-functional - a friend of the kitchen and of the house-wife/husband. The container won't scratch or gradually wear down at the bends, it can be used thousands of time with little to no visible detraction.

Overall, I've had some good use out of my containers and thoroughly recommend them. Sure they may be a bit expensive for some, but the design has been perfected for the function, and the functions / uses are endless. If you're after a multi-use container that can be used everywhere in the kitchen, is safe, secure and long-lasting, pick this.

DIMENSIONS: 20.6 x 13.5 x 6.9 cm
WEIGHT: 454g (boxed)

RATING: 4.5/5
PRICE: £4.50 per 1 litre container.
AVAILABILITY: Amazon.co.uk, and in some super-markets (other varieties / brands exist).