Flash 10 is needed for this
Download Flash here.

Microwaving Festival Food Safely in Silicone Lunch Boxes

Soft, collapsible silicone lunch boxes have become a favourite with festival-goers because they squash flat in a rucksack and pop back into shape when you need them. Many people use them to pack meals for the drive or train journey, or to bring leftovers home after a weekend. If you want to reheat food in one, a few simple habits keep it safe and stop the container wearing out too soon.

Check the label first

Not every silicone box is made the same way. Look for a clear statement from the manufacturer that it is food-grade and microwave-safe. Also check the maximum temperature it is rated for. Many collapsible boxes have a rigid plastic rim or lid, and that part may not be suitable for the microwave even when the silicone walls are. If you are unsure, take the lid off or move the food to a ceramic or glass dish.

Reheating without mess or damage

  • Always open the box fully before heating. A half-collapsed container heats unevenly and can tip over.
  • Open the steam vent, or rest the lid loosely on top, so pressure cannot build up.
  • Heat in short bursts and stir between them. This gets rid of cold spots, which matters for rice, meat and other foods that can carry bacteria.
  • Use oven gloves or a cloth to lift it out. Silicone flexes when hot, and the food inside can be much hotter than the walls feel.
  • Avoid heating very oily or sugary foods for long periods. They can get hot enough to stain or weaken the silicone.

Food safety on the road

A good container is only part of the job. Cooked food should be cooled quickly and kept cold, ideally in a cool bag with ice packs, then eaten within a sensible time. Reheat it until it is piping hot all the way through, and reheat it only once. At a busy campsite a shared microwave may not be available, so plan meals that are safe to eat cold as well. The camping information covers what facilities to expect.

Cleaning and care

Wash the box in warm soapy water or in the dishwasher if the maker says it is safe. Dry it fully before you fold it away, because trapped moisture causes smells and mould. If the silicone becomes sticky, cracked or permanently cloudy, replace it. Packing a couple of reliable boxes saves money on food stalls and cuts down on waste, and our travel tips can help you plan the rest of the trip.