You've got some good suggestions here, but if you have these often or have to tote food items to relative's houses for Thanksgiving or Christmas or <insert applicable holiday here>, I would suggest investing in one of these:

http://www.digitalgiftworld.com/1077450.html

You did say no desserts, but at my last office potluck, I made a banana pudding and refrigerated it overnight and placed the hot/cold pak in the freezer. Next morning, the hot/cold pak went into the tote with the banana pudding and it sat and remained cold for about 4 hours without refrigeration.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Social Media Specialist
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

[email protected]