Abstract: A single-use self-heating container has an insulating external envelope. A plastic vessel is within and attached to the envelope. A membrane separates the vessel into an upper compartment which contains one reagent and a lower compartment which contains another reagent. A membrane-breaking member is in the lower compartment. A metallic container with a thermally welded peelable cover is fastened to an upper portion of the plastic vessel. To prevent abrupt temperature changes, the upper compartment of the plastic vessel may contain a temperature control substance which undergoes a change in state between 90.degree. and 100.degree. C.