Smelly Food Grade barrels

[erob]

I purchased a couple 55 gallon barrels that had pizza sauce in them. I want to store my sap in them this season but the barrels still have a slight pizza smell. What is the best way to solve this problem ?

[NhShaun]

Tomato sauce is pretty darn acidic, you may never get that smell out completely. Try soaking them overnight in some hot water with PBW(Powdered brewers wash) and rinse with really hot water then let them air dry for a couple days with plenty of ventilation.

[bigschuss]

My food grade barrels had chopped peppers in them and still have a slight pepper smell. Been using them for 5 or 6 years now. It has never been a problem. If you can't completely get rid of the smell I doubt you'll notice any transfer to your sap or syrup.

[fred]

sugar absorbs everything. highly advised to not use them

[erob]

Thanks for the info !

[Smeds]

I use 55-gallon food grade drum liners in mine. Bonus? No cleaning sticky sap, just throw away after the season.