Thermos Icon Food Jar Review: Is It Worth It?

Hey there, food lovers and adventurers! If you’re tired of lukewarm lunches or soggy snacks on the go, let me introduce you to the Thermos Icon Food Jar. I’ve been using this 16oz stainless steel wonder for months, and it’s transformed how I enjoy meals at work, on hikes, and even during road trips. With its sleek design, stellar heat retention, and handy features, it’s a game-changer. Trust me, you’ll want this in your lunch bag or backpack—read on to see why it’s worth every penny!

My Journey With The Thermos Icon Food Jar

I’m a busy guy who loves a hot meal, whether I’m at the office, camping in the mountains, or stuck in traffic on a long commute. I’ve tried my fair share of food containers, but they often leaked, failed to keep food hot, or were a pain to clean. Enter the Thermos Icon Food Jar, which caught my eye with its matte finish and promise of keeping food hot for up to 14 hours. I decided to put it to the test, and let me tell you, it’s been a wild ride. From piping-hot chili to chilled fruit salads, this jar has become my go-to for keeping meals fresh and delicious.

I started using the 16oz version because it’s the perfect size for a hearty lunch without being too bulky. The first time I packed it with creamy tomato soup, I was skeptical—would it really stay hot until lunch? Spoiler alert: it did, and then some! I’ve since used it for everything from pasta to oatmeal, and it’s held up like a champ. Let’s dive into what makes this thermos so special, starting with the pros that have me hooked.

Pros Of The Thermos Icon Food Jar

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• Outstanding Heat Retention: This jar keeps soups and stews above 140°F for nearly 14 hours, which is perfect for long days. I packed hot chili at 7 a.m., and by 3 p.m., it was still steaming—ideal for food safety and enjoyment
• Leak-Proof Design: No more soup-soaked backpacks! The Dura-Guard™ pressure relief stopper ensures a tight seal. I’ve tossed this jar in my bag sideways, and it hasn’t leaked a drop.
• Dishwasher-Safe: Cleaning is a breeze since it’s top-rack dishwasher-safe. I pop it in after use, and it comes out spotless, saving me time on busy days.
• Stow-Away Spoon: The included stainless steel folding spoon is a lifesaver. It nests neatly in the lid, so I’m never stuck without a utensil on the go.
• Griptec™ Non-Slip Base: The base keeps the jar stable on any surface. Whether I’m eating at a wobbly picnic table or my desk, it stays put without slipping.
• Sleek, Durable Design: Made from 18/8 stainless steel, it’s tough and rust-resistant. I’ve dropped it a few times, and it only has minor scratches—no dents!
• Versatile Size: The 16oz capacity is just right for a single meal, like a bowl of soup or pasta. It fits easily in my lunch bag without feeling bulky.
• Cool-to-Touch Exterior: Even with scalding-hot contents, the exterior stays cool. I can grab it without burning my hands, which is a huge plus.
• Stylish Matte Finish: The “saddle” colorway I chose looks rugged yet classy. It stands out without being flashy, and I’ve gotten compliments on it!
• True-Coat™ Finish: The coating resists scratches better than other thermoses I’ve owned. It still looks sharp after months of daily use.

The heat retention blew me away during a winter camping trip. I filled the jar with beef stew before heading out, and after a 10-hour hike in freezing temps, it was still hot enough to warm my core. The leak-proof design is another win—unlike my old containers, which turned my backpack into a soup swamp. The spoon is a small but genius addition; I’ve used it everywhere from park benches to my car. Plus, the dishwasher-safe feature means I’m not stuck scrubbing it by hand after a long day. But nothing’s perfect, so let’s talk about the cons.

Cons Of The Thermos Icon Food Jar

• Slightly Heavy: At 0.75 pounds, it’s not the lightest option. For ultralight backpackers, this might feel a bit hefty compared to smaller jars.
• Lid Can Be Tricky: The double-lid system (stopper and outer lid) is secure but takes practice to manage one-handed. I fumbled it a few times at first.
• Not Microwave-Safe: You can’t pop this in the microwave to reheat food. I work around this by heating food beforehand, but it’s a minor hassle.
• Spoon Length: The folding spoon is handy but a bit short for the jar’s depth. I sometimes have to tilt the jar to scoop out the last bits.
• Limited Color Options: While the matte finish is sleek, there aren’t many color choices. I’d love more variety to match my gear or style.
• Price Point: At around $30, it’s pricier than budget options like Simple Modern. It’s worth it for the quality, but it might stretch tight budgets.
• No Built-In Bowl: Unlike some models, the lid doesn’t double as a bowl. I eat straight from the jar, which isn’t ideal for soupy meals.
• Gasket Cleaning: The rubber gasket in the stopper can trap food particles. I have to remove and clean it carefully to avoid odors.
• Not Ultra-Compact: For day hikes, it’s fine, but for minimalist packing, the 16oz size takes up more space than a smaller 10oz jar.
• Occasional Condensation: With cold foods, I’ve noticed slight sweating on the exterior. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it can dampen my bag slightly.

The weight is noticeable if you’re packing light, especially on long hikes. I once tried carrying it in a side pocket, and it felt bulkier than I’d hoped. The lid’s learning curve isn’t a huge issue, but when I’m rushing, it’s annoying to juggle both pieces. The spoon’s shortness frustrated me when I was scraping out the last of my oatmeal—it’s functional but not perfect. Still, these are minor gripes compared to the jar’s overall performance. Let’s see how it stacks up against other brands.

Comparison With Other Brands

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Thermos Icon vs. Zojirushi Stainless Steel Food Jar

• Heat Retention: Thermos Icon keeps food hot for 14 hours, but Zojirushi edges it out, maintaining soup above 140°F for over 15 hours in tests.
• Design: Zojirushi’s lid has a pressure-release valve, making it easier to open, but it’s not a bowl like Thermos’s optional models. Thermos feels sturdier.
• Size Options: Zojirushi offers 12oz, 16.9oz, and 25oz sizes, giving more flexibility than Thermos’s 16oz and 24oz options.
• Weight: Zojirushi is lighter (0.6 pounds for 12oz), ideal for ultralight packing, while Thermos’s 0.75 pounds feels heavier.
• Ease of Cleaning: Both are hand-wash recommended, but Thermos’s dishwasher-safe option is a time-saver. Zojirushi’s lid has more parts to clean.
• Durability: Thermos withstands drops better with minimal scratching, while Zojirushi’s coating scratches more easily.
• Price: Zojirushi is slightly cheaper (around $25), but Thermos’s included spoon and grip base add value.
• Aesthetics: Thermos’s matte finish looks more modern, while Zojirushi’s shiny colors are fun but less rugged-looking.
• Leak-Proof: Both are leak-proof, but Thermos’s Dura-Guard™ stopper feels more secure in rough conditions.
• Accessories: Thermos includes a stow-away spoon; Zojirushi doesn’t, which is a slight drawback for convenience.

Zojirushi is a heat-retention beast, but I prefer the Thermos Icon for its durability and included spoon. If you’re a minimalist, Zojirushi’s lighter weight might sway you.

Thermos Icon vs. Stanley Classic Food Jar

• Heat Retention: Stanley keeps soup hot for 15 hours, slightly outperforming Thermos’s 14 hours, but both are excellent.
• Lid Design: Stanley’s lid doubles as a bowl, which is great for soupy meals, while Thermos’s lid is just a cap.
• Capacity: Stanley’s 17oz and 24oz options are close to Thermos’s 16oz and 24oz, but Stanley feels bulkier.
• Weight: Stanley’s 1.0-pound 17oz jar is heavier than Thermos’s 0.75-pound 16oz, noticeable on long treks.
• Durability: Both are stainless steel, but Stanley dents more easily in drop tests. Thermos feels tougher.
• Cleaning: Stanley isn’t dishwasher-safe, while Thermos’s top-rack compatibility is a win for lazy days.
• Price: Stanley’s $44 price tag is steeper than Thermos’s $30, making Thermos a better value.
• Spoon: Both include a spoon, but Thermos’s folds and stows in the lid, while Stanley’s spork is less practical.
• Portability: Thermos’s Griptec™ base prevents slipping, while Stanley’s design is less stable on uneven surfaces.
• Aesthetics: Stanley’s army-green vibe is iconic, but Thermos’s matte finish feels more modern and less prone to scratches.

Stanley’s bowl-lid is handy, but I lean toward Thermos for its lighter weight and easier cleaning. If you need a larger capacity, Stanley might be your pick.

Thermos Icon vs. Simple Modern Provision Food Jar

• Heat Retention: Simple Modern loses 44.1°F over 12 hours, while Thermos only drops 24.1°F, making Thermos far superior.
• Price: Simple Modern’s $18 price is budget-friendly, but Thermos’s $30 feels justified for the performance.
• Design: Simple Modern’s handle is great for grabbing, but Thermos’s Griptec™ base offers better stability.
• Leak-Proof: Both are leak-proof, but Thermos’s stopper feels more robust for rough handling.
• Durability: Simple Modern dents easily, while Thermos holds up better in drops and daily use.
• Cleaning: Both are dishwasher-safe, but Simple Modern’s simpler lid is slightly easier to clean.
• Capacity: Simple Modern’s 12oz and 16oz options match Thermos, but Thermos feels more premium.
• Spoon: Thermos includes a folding spoon; Simple Modern doesn’t, which is a bummer for convenience.
• Weight: Simple Modern is slightly lighter at 0.7 pounds, but the difference is negligible.
• Aesthetics: Simple Modern’s colorful patterns are fun, but Thermos’s sleek matte finish wins for sophistication.

Simple Modern is a solid budget option, but Thermos Icon’s heat retention and included spoon make it my top choice for reliability.

Maintenance And How To Get The Most Out Of Your Thermos Icon Food Jar

To keep your Thermos Icon performing like a champ, you’ve got to treat it right. I’ve learned a few tricks to maximize its potential and keep it in tip-top shape. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Preheat for Hot Foods: Pour boiling water into the jar and let it sit for 5 minutes before adding hot food. This primes the insulation, keeping your meal hotter for longer. I do this for soups, and it’s a game-changer.
• Pre-chill for Cold Foods: For salads or yogurt, chill the jar in the fridge for 10 minutes first. It helps maintain cold temps, especially on warm days.
• Clean the Gasket Regularly: Remove the rubber gasket from the stopper and wash it separately to prevent odor buildup. I use a small brush to get into the crevices.
• Dishwasher or Hand-Wash: While it’s dishwasher-safe, I sometimes hand-wash with mild soap to preserve the finish. Avoid abrasive sponges to prevent scratches.
• Store with Lid Off: After cleaning, store the jar with the lid off to avoid trapped moisture or odors. I learned this the hard way after a funky smell lingered.
• Avoid Microwaving: Never put the jar in the microwave—it’s not safe and can damage the insulation. Heat food separately before filling.
• Check the Spoon: Ensure the folding spoon is securely stowed in the lid to avoid losing it. I keep a spare utensil in my bag just in case.
• Handle with Care: While durable, avoid dropping it repeatedly to prevent dents. I use a padded lunch bag for extra protection on hikes.
• Use for Versatile Foods: This jar handles soups, stews, pasta, and even solid foods like rice or veggies. I’ve packed half a burger in it, and it stayed warm!
• Keep It Upright: Though leak-proof, storing it upright in your bag minimizes pressure on the seal. I learned this after a sideways tumble slightly loosened the lid.

These tips have kept my Thermos Icon in great shape for months. Preheating is my favorite hack—it’s like giving the jar a warm hug before filling it with soup. Regular gasket cleaning is a must; I once skipped it, and my jar smelled like last week’s curry. If you follow these steps, your Thermos will be your lunch buddy for years.

My Personal Experience: Why I Love The Thermos Icon

Let me share a quick story. Last month, I went on a 12-hour road trip with my buddy, and I packed the Thermos Icon with homemade chicken noodle soup. We hit traffic, got delayed, and didn’t eat until hours later. When I opened the jar, the soup was still hot enough to burn my tongue—in a good way! My friend was amazed, and I felt like a meal-prep genius. Another time, I used it for a chilled fruit salad during a summer picnic, and it stayed refreshingly cold for hours, even in 90°F heat.

The jar’s versatility is what keeps me coming back. I’ve used it for everything from oatmeal at my desk to chili on a camping trip. The Griptec™ base is a small but brilliant feature—I’ve set it on rocky surfaces without it tipping over. The spoon is a lifesaver when I’m eating in my car, and the sleek design makes me feel like I’m carrying a piece of high-tech gear. Sure, it’s not perfect—the lid can be a bit fiddly, and I wish the spoon was longer—but these are small trade-offs for a thermos that delivers on its promises.

Frequently Asked Questions (Faq)

Conclusion: Why You Should Buy The Thermos Icon Food Jar

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If you’re looking for a reliable, stylish, and versatile food jar, the Thermos Icon is a must-have. It’s kept my meals hot, fresh, and leak-free through countless adventures, from office lunches to backcountry hikes. With its durable build, handy spoon, and top-notch insulation, it’s worth every cent. Don’t settle for soggy sandwiches or cold soup—grab the Thermos Icon Food Jar and elevate your on-the-go dining game!