It’s the leaks that get you. You pack a juicy snack and promise yourself the lid won’t seep… then the backpack tells a different story. Here’s the good news: a silicone gasket under a steel or glass lid can stop leaks without putting food on plastic. The trick is simple. Food touches only stainless steel or glass, and silicone is limited to the gasket that makes the seal.
Our policy: PF-Silicone = food touches stainless or glass, and silicone is limited to the gasket/lid seal.
Keeps leaks in check: The compressible silicone gasket creates a snug seal for juicy snacks and leftovers.
Food contact stays plastic-free: Surfaces are steel or glass; the silicone is just the gasket, not the bowl.
Easy to clean: Dishwasher-safe; let lids air-dry fully so silicone doesn’t trap moisture.
Durable + kid-friendly: Softer lids are easier for small hands than stiff plastic clips.
Replaceable parts: Many brands sell replacement gaskets, so the container lasts longer.
When to skip: Avoid full-silicone pans for very hot, fatty cooking if you want strictly non-plastic food contact.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
See our pick: a Stainless Lunch Container (leak-resistant seal).
Related guide: Stainless Lunch Container is best for full meals or wetter foods.
FAQ
Is a silicone gasket plastic?
Silicone is a synthetic rubber, not a conventional plastic. In our PF-Silicone policy, food touches only steel or glass; silicone is limited to the gasket.
Can a silicone gasket touch food?
Incidental contact happens at the rim, but the food-contact surfaces are steel or glass. The gasket’s job is sealing, not holding food.
Will silicone hold odors?
It can. Dishwasher helps, and you can sun-dry or bicarbonate-soak the gasket if needed.
Is it safe with hot foods?
For very hot, fatty cooking, avoid full-silicone bakeware if you want strictly non-plastic contact. For lunchboxes, the gasket under a steel lid is fine.
Can I replace the gasket/latch later? Many brands sell replacement gaskets and hardware. Check your model’s parts page.
Will it leak with soups?
Gasketed lids handle saucy foods and juicy sides well, but fully liquid soups can escape if the box tips. Use a dedicated soup container for sloshy liquids.
Microwave & oven?
Stainless is not microwave-safe. Many stainless steel boxes are oven-safe (without plastic parts). check your brand’s guidance.