To pack a bento box and prevent food from mixing, follow these tips and techniques:

1. Use Compartments: Choose a bento box with multiple compartments or use individual silicone or food-safe dividers to separate different food items. Each compartment should have a tight-fitting lid to prevent leakage.

2. Sauce Containers: Use small sauce containers or silicone cupcake liners to hold sauces, dressings, or dips separately. This prevents the liquid from spreading and keeps the other items dry.

3. Wrap and Seal: Wrap foods like sushi rolls, sandwiches, or onigiri (rice balls) individually with plastic wrap or parchment paper to keep them secure and avoid cross-contamination.

4. Stack Smartly: If your bento box has stacked tiers, place dry or less messy items in the bottom tier and foods with potential for leakage (like juicy fruits) in the upper tier.

5. Edible Barriers: Use items like lettuce leaves, nori seaweed, or cucumber slices as edible barriers between different foods to create a visual and physical separation.

6. Squeeze Bottles: Invest in small squeeze bottles for dressings or sauces, allowing you to control the flow and prevent spills.

7. Vacuum-Sealed Containers: Consider using vacuum-sealed containers for items like soups or stews to ensure they stay in place and avoid mixing with other foods.

8. Firm Items on Top: Place firmer or less delicate items on top, as they are less likely to get crushed or affected by other foods' moisture.

9. Stabilizing Items: Use food picks or decorative separators to hold items in place and add an aesthetic touch to your bento box.

10. Pack Tightly: Fill the compartments snuggly without overpacking, as tightly packed items are less likely to shift around.

11. Cool and Dry: Ensure that the foods are cool and dry before packing, as condensation can cause foods to become soggy.

12. Consider Timing: If possible, avoid packing items with different textures or flavors too far in advance to maintain their freshness and prevent mingling.

By following these packing tips, you can create a beautiful and well-organized bento box that keeps the flavors and textures of each food item separate, allowing you to enjoy a delightful and visually appealing meal.