Noah Vinter
Mason jars are a popular choice for storing and ageing alcohol. However, concerns have been raised about the safety of the lids, with some people worried about the toxicity of the materials used. While some opt for standard lids, others prefer to use alternatives such as oak, PTFE, or aluminium. Those who choose to use PTFE can buy thin lid inserts from US Plastics, while others cut sheets of PTFE to size. Some people avoid aluminium due to its potential health risks and possibility of imparting a metallic taste, while others use it without issue. Corks are also a popular choice for sealing alcohol in mason jars, as they allow for a bit of airing out.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mason Jar Uses | Storing alcohol, canning, storing wine, storing spirits, storing low wines, storing high-proof spirits, storing drinking proof, storing moonshine, storing beer |
| Safe Lid Materials | PTFE, oak, glass, cork, tin, cardboard |
| Unsafe Lid Materials | Aluminium, wax, rubber, paint |
| Safe Lid Brands | Fido, US Plastics, Ball |
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What You'll Learn
Using aluminium foil under the lid
Aluminium foil is a cheap and accessible material that can be used to seal mason jars. It is a safe alternative to other materials, such as corks, which may have bonding agents that are unsafe when exposed to alcohol.
Some people who store alcohol in mason jars choose to place a layer of aluminium foil under the lid. This can be done by cutting out aluminium circles to replace the inner part of the two-part lids. However, it is important to note that this method may not create a perfect seal. One user who tried this method reported that they did not notice any discolouration in the foil or any taste imparted to the alcohol.
Another method is to cover the lid with aluminium foil and then place it back in the ring upside down. This method also may not seal perfectly, but it can be used to prevent leakage.
While aluminium foil is generally safe to use, some people may prefer to avoid it to prevent any potential aluminium taste from being imparted to the alcohol. Additionally, foil may not be suitable for long-term storage as it may not be as durable as other materials.
Overall, using aluminium foil under the lid of a mason jar can be a safe and effective way to store alcohol in the short term. However, it may not create a perfect seal, and there is a risk of imparting an aluminium taste to the alcohol.
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Using oak lids
While it is possible to store alcohol in mason jars, it is important to ensure that the jar rims are clean and sterilised before pouring in the alcohol and sealing the jar. This is because, over time, rust can accumulate on the lids, especially if the alcohol is stored for a long period.
One way to prevent rust is to use wooden lids, which are available in oak, walnut, and maple, among other types of wood. These lids are designed to screw onto mason jars and feature an inner metal cap with an airtight and waterproof seal. However, it is important to note that these wooden lids are not meant for canning and should be hand-washed and wiped dry.
If you plan to age spirits in mason jars, it is recommended to use a PTFE lid insert or cover the gasket with PTFE, as the lining on the insert of some jar lids is not HD-approved. This will ensure that there are no unapproved, leachable plastics or varnish in your product. Additionally, you can use a coffee filter between the lid and the jar to allow for air exchange while keeping bugs out.
For those interested in oaking their spirits, oak-aging lids are available for purchase. Before using these lids, it is recommended to rinse them in hot water and heat the spirits to about 140°F. The cooling process will create a negative pressure that helps keep the liquid in while it soaks the oak and swells. It is important to note that factors such as temperature, humidity, viscosity, and proof will impact evaporation and potential leakage.
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Using PTFE tape
Mason jars are a popular choice for storing alcohol. However, some people are concerned about the safety of the plastic lining on the jar lids. This lining is called plastisol, and some sources claim that it is not safe to use with ethyl alcohol. There is also a risk of the alcohol reacting with the plastic and causing it to deteriorate.
One solution to this problem is to use PTFE tape to seal the lids of Mason jars. PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is a synthetic polymer that is known for its non-stick properties and chemical resistance. It is often used in plumbing applications and is sometimes referred to as "Teflon tape".
- Sourcing PTFE Tape: PTFE tape is readily available at most hardware stores, as it is commonly used for plumbing applications. It is also available online through retailers like Amazon.
- Preparing the Mason Jar: Before applying the PTFE tape, ensure that the Mason jar is clean and dry. It is important to remove any residue or contaminants that may affect the taste or quality of the alcohol.
- Applying the PTFE Tape: Start by wrapping the PTFE tape securely around the threads of the jar lid. Ensure that the tape is smooth and even, with no gaps or wrinkles. It is important to note that PTFE tape is typically white, but it may become translucent over time, especially around the edges of the lid.
- Using Coffee Filters: Some people recommend placing a coffee filter on top of the jar before securing the lid. This allows for air exchange while keeping bugs and contaminants out.
- Avoiding Evaporation: To prevent evaporation and ensure a tight seal, consider using a flip-top wide-mouth jar, such as the Fido series. These jars have a large mouth, making it easier to pour liquids and add ingredients.
- Using with Other Foods: Mason jars with PTFE-sealed lids can also be used for fermenting other foods, such as maturing Sauerkraut or making Kombucha.
- Cost Considerations: Buying pre-cut PTFE discs can be expensive, especially when factoring in shipping costs. An alternative is to purchase PTFE sheets and cut them into squares to fit your Mason jar lids. This option is more cost-effective and reduces waste.
- Longevity: PTFE tape may not be a long-lasting solution for sealing Mason jar lids. Some users have reported that the tape becomes translucent and that ethanol accumulates underneath. Therefore, it is important to regularly inspect the tape and replace it if necessary.
- Alternative Solutions: If you are concerned about the safety of PTFE tape, there are other options available, such as using corks, antique glass lids, or oak lids. Some people also use aluminium foil, but this may affect the taste of the alcohol.
In conclusion, while Mason jars are a convenient option for storing alcohol, it is important to consider the safety of the materials used for sealing the lids. PTFE tape offers a viable solution, but it may require regular maintenance and replacement. It is always important to research and understand the potential risks associated with any materials that come into contact with your food or beverages.
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Using corks
Corks have been used to seal wine bottles for hundreds of years. The wine breathes through the cork, influencing the aging, flavour, and quality of the wine. This is why corks are so important when storing wine.
Natural corks are made from the bark of the cork oak tree and are considered the best option for sealing wine bottles. They are flexible, elastic, and allow a small amount of oxygen to enter the bottle, which helps the wine age and develop its flavour. However, natural corks can be inconsistent and may dry out over time, affecting the seal. In addition, a small percentage of natural corks can taint the wine with trichloroanisole (TCA), a mouldy-smelling substance formed through a chemical reaction between the natural lignin molecules in the cork and chlorine from the environment.
Synthetic corks are made from polyethylene, the same material used in milk bottles and plastic pipes. They are consistent, durable, and do not dry out or crumble like natural corks. Synthetic corks also allow winemakers to control the oxidation rate by offering different rates of known oxygen transmission. This can be useful for winemakers who want to tweak the wine's oxidation rate. However, synthetic corks may allow in a bit more oxygen than natural corks, which could affect the wine's aging process.
When storing alcohol in a mason jar, it is important to use a sanitized bottle and a tight-fitting cork or other seal to keep oxygen out and prevent spoilage. Some people recommend using natural corks with mason jars for short-term storage, while others suggest using synthetic corks to prevent oxidation and maintain the quality of the alcohol. Ultimately, the type of cork used will depend on personal preference and the desired level of oxygen transmission.
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Flipping the lid so the metal side touches the alcohol
When storing alcohol, it is important to consider the safety of the container and its lid. Some people opt for stainless steel beer kegs, which are cheaper, larger, safe to use, easy to hide, transport, and more durable than mason jars. However, mason jars can be used for storing alcohol, especially for small batches and testing.
If you plan to use mason jars, it is recommended to use thin PTFE lid inserts to protect the lid rubber from alcohol vapors. These can be purchased or cut from a sheet. Some people also wrap the lids with tin foil, but it is important to note that aluminum is on the list of materials that should not be used with liquor.
While mason jar lids are not HD-approved, you can flip the lid so that the metal side faces the alcohol. This method is used by some distillers for aging spirits in mason jars. It is also recommended to ensure that the jar rims are clean before putting on the lids.
Some people also use corks for storing alcohol, allowing a bit of airing out. To prevent the lid from rusting, you can place Saran Wrap between the alcohol and the lid. However, corks may not be the most cost-effective option, and they require careful handling to achieve the desired level of ventilation.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, mason jar lids can be used to store alcohol safely, but it is important to ensure that the jar rims are clean before putting on the lids.
Some ways to prevent mason jar lids from rusting include using a layer of aluminium foil under the lid, cutting a thin piece of oak to replace the seal, or using PTFE lid inserts from US Plastics.
Yes, glass bottles with natural corks or old liquor bottles can also be used to store alcohol safely.
Low wines and high-proof spirits can both be stored in mason jars, with the latter being better suited for smaller jars.
Alcohol can be stored in mason jars for at least a year without any significant evaporation.
