Material & safety

Why silicone moulds warp - and how to avoid it

3 min read · June 4, 2026 · by FRiBA
FRiBA Silikonform in Rot mit stabilem Metallrahmen

At first glance, silicone molds seem practical: lightweight, flexible, and easy to handle. In everyday use, however, a typical problem quickly emerges - many molds bend when filled or carried.

The Core

Flexibility alone is not a good solution. The crucial factor is whether a mold remains stable and controllable even with contents.

FillingCarryingStabilityMetal Frame

Why This Happens

The main reason usually lies not in the material itself, but in the construction. Very soft molds give way as soon as liquid or heavy contents are placed inside. What seems practical when empty quickly feels unstable with contents.

What Swiss sources contribute

The FOPH treats tableware and kitchen utensils as materials in contact with food. This means it's not just about whether something is food-safe, but also whether it can be used effectively for its intended purpose.

Soft Alone vs. Stably Constructed

Situation Soft Standard Mold FRiBA with Metal Frame
Filling Gives way Retains shape
Carrying Unsafe Controlled
Liquid foods Wobbly Secure
After lifting Distorts Dimensionally stable

Why Stability Matters in Everyday Life

Especially for meal prep, small oven dishes, or frozen portions, stability is a real usage factor. A mold that wobbles or distorts when lifted makes every step more cumbersome - this is not a detail, but a difference in everyday usability.

In short
  • Bending is usually due to a lack of stability in the construction.
  • With contents, it becomes clear whether a mold is truly suitable for everyday use.
  • A metal frame stabilizes precisely at the most heavily stressed edge.
  • Dimensionally stable means: safer carrying, cleaner filling, more relaxed working.
Sources
  • FOPH - Materials and Objects in Contact with Food
  • FOPH - Tableware and Kitchen Utensils

Mentioned in the article

FRiBA FlexForm - from the freezer to the oven

Silicone mould with metal rim, ml scale and lid. −50 °C to +250 °C - oven-safe, freezer-safe, dishwasher-safe.

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