Overview
The THERMOS Stainless King Vacuum-Insulated Food Jar (16 ounce, Midnight Blue) is a compact, durable food jar designed to keep meals hot or cold for hours. It ships with a folding spoon integrated into the lid and uses Thermos’ vacuum insulation technology to maximize temperature retention. At a listed price of $29.49, it targets commuters, office workers, students, and anyone who wants a reliable, portable container for soups, stews, pasta or chilled salads.
Key Features
- Vacuum insulation: keeps soups hot up to 9 hours and cold foods up to 14 hours.
- 18/8 stainless steel construction for durability and rust resistance.
- 16 fluid ounce capacity — compact and portable.
- Twist-lock closure with a lidded jar and internal compartment design.
- Folding spoon included in the lid for convenient eating on the go.
- Limited five-year warranty from Thermos.
- Midnight Blue finish (model: SK3000, Part Number SK3000MDB4).
Full Specifications
- Product dimensions: 3.7″ L x 3.7″ W x 5.5″ H
- Item volume: 16 fluid ounces
- Item weight: 12.8 ounces (0.8 pounds)
- Recommended uses: Coffee, meals, tea
- Container shape: Round
- Closure type: Twist lock
- Item form: Lidded jar with internal compartment
- Is microwaveable: No
- Is dishwasher safe: Listed both as Yes and as Hand Wash Only in product details — see care notes below
- Included components: Food jar (spoon integrated)
- Batteries: Not required
- Warranty: Limited five years
- UPC: 041205747529 • ASIN: B08JWKYBZZ
- Date first available: September 23, 2020
Performance (What to Expect)
- Heat retention: Expect soups and hot meals to remain warm for several hours (manufacturer states up to 9 hours).
- Cold retention: Chilled items can stay cold for an extended period (manufacturer states up to 14 hours).
- Durability: The 18/8 stainless-steel build and solid construction make the jar resistant to dents and daily wear.
- Leak resistance: The twist-lock lid and seal are reported to perform well for travel and commuting.
Real-User Notes & Reviews
Aggregated comments from users include:
- “Keeps food warm all day” — users report excellent temperature retention and reliable daily performance.
- Durability and quality: Many reviewers describe the jar as sturdy, premium-feeling, and long-lasting.
- Spoon feedback: The included folding spoon is convenient and stored in the lid, but some users noted it folds in a way that can be awkward for left-handed use. If you are left-handed, you may prefer to remove the spoon and use a separate utensil.
- Cleaning and maintenance: Users say cleaning is straightforward; however, product details contain conflicting care instructions (see below).
Care & Maintenance
Product details list both “Is Dishwasher Safe: Yes” and “Product Care Instructions: Hand Wash Only.” To preserve seals, finish, and the folding spoon mechanism, we recommend hand washing the lid and spoon and following any manufacturer instructions included with the product. The stainless-steel interior can generally be cleaned with warm, soapy water; dry thoroughly before reassembly.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent hot and cold retention for a 16 oz jar.
- Compact size fits backpacks and small lunch bags.
- Durable 18/8 stainless-steel construction with a trusted Thermos warranty.
- Folding spoon included — convenient for eating on the go.
- Twist-lock lid provides a secure closure.
Cons
- Spoon mechanism can be awkward for left-handed users (some report it folds down on itself).
- Conflicting cleaning instructions — best to hand wash lids and utensils to be safe.
- Not microwaveable, so reheating requires an external microwave-safe container.
Who Should Buy This
- Commuters and office workers who want a dependable container for hot soups or chilled meals.
- Students and travelers who value compact size and an included utensil.
- Anyone who wants a rugged, long-wearing food jar backed by a multi-year warranty.
- Left-handed users should consider the spoon folding orientation before buying, or plan to use their own utensil.
Final Verdict
The THERMOS Stainless King 16 oz Food Jar in Midnight Blue is a well-built, effective food container that delivers on temperature retention and everyday durability. The included folding spoon is a handy addition, though left-handed users may find it awkward. Given its performance, Thermos’ reputation, and the five-year limited warranty, it’s a strong choice at its $29.49 price point for anyone who needs a compact, reliable jar for hot or cold meals.
