Bulk Storage

[waysidemaple]

I saw these on ebay and wasn't sure if they could be used for storing syrup. They say they are brand new barrels. Any input would be great. I'd love to have stainless steel barrels but I'm trying to figure out a way that is affordable and requires minimal overhead cost.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=120482768424&category=1267&_trksid=p5197.c0.m619

Thanks
Scott

[gmcooper]

I wouldn't even think about using them. No where does the ad mention anything about food grade, FDA approved or anything remotely suitable for syrup storage. You should be able to get a few good used galv. barrells from those switching to stainless. Not the best solution but there are 1,000's of galv drums still in use.

[Bucket Head]

Scott,

Everybody here understands wanting to save money, but don't buy those. Their not food grade, they will rust, and no bulk syrup buyer would ever consider buying your syrup. Even if your not considering selling bulk, you don't want to chance your syrup in them. Look for used stainless drums. Look for used stainless beer kegs. Yes, their more expensive, but they will be safe and they'll last a lifetime. Many lifetime's for that matter. Many generations of waysidemaplers will get some use out of them.

Steve

[waysidemaple]

Thanks guys. That is why I asked the question.

Scott

[Bucket Head]

Yes, galvanized barrels are an option too. However, Vermont will soon be outlawing them and I'm sure the other states will follow. Instead of buying barrels twice- galvanized now and then when their worth nothing, buying stainless- swallow hard and buy some stainless ones. Look at it this way, the stainless will be cheaper now than it will be in two or five years or whenever you have to replace non-compliant barrels.

Steve

[waysidemaple]

Stainless is the best way for sure. And your right, the price will only be going up. Ill keep my eyes open for some kegs and if nothing turns up I'll just bite the bullet and get the stainless barrels. Don't know if you don't ask. I was also considering the plastic 30 gallon drums Leader sells. I've still got some time before season to figure something out.

Scott

[Bucket Head]

I have no experience with the Leader barrels, but you can't go wrong with stainless or food-grade plastic. We all work too hard to make this stuff to chance it in questionable containers!

Steve

[Oregon sugar bush]

We are backyard syrup makers...can sap be frozen until you have enough to start boiling? We have a large chest freezer.

[Rossell's Sugar Camp]

Yes it can. some people will say other wise. there are entire threads dedicated to your question.

[jjanszen]

I sell used food grade stainless steel barrels. Please visit www.usedstainlesssteelbarrels.com or call Donna at 513-608-6135

[dbcriss]

Call Peter Borys at Kaplan Container. pborys@kaplancontainer.com They are making 5 gal SS containers just for the maple syrup industry.