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Is beer better in glass or cans? Here’s what you need to know

fogcentral — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 15:05:51 +0000

The truth is, it does make a difference – a big one. Beer’s flavour begins to change the moment it’s packaged, meaning the journey that each one takes from brewery to buff can have a major impact on the tasting experience. Since most of us can’t drink beer straight from the source (or rather the tank), packaging is essential — not only for transport, but also to protect your brew’s flavour and quality. The end goal of storing beer in bottles and cans? Ensuring that we get to experience the brew as closely as possible to how its creators intended.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about beer packaging and tackle the eternal dilemma of beer in bottles vs. cans.

The history of beer: from ancient brews to modern flavours

Beer is one of the oldest drinks that humans have produced, and its story goes way back to Ancient China. Research shows that during the Xia Dynasty (2070-1600 BCE), people made beer at a small scale using grains like millet and barley — mostly for use in religious rituals and medical practices.

A more recent discovery, dating back to 7000 BCE, found traces of a specific beer type made from rice, fungi and a plant part called a ‘tuber’. Scientists believed this was part of a burial ceremony, given the abnormally lengthy brewing process.

But beer wasn’t just used for rituals, it was also a staple of wealth and status among the Ancient Chinese society. Brewed using diverse vessels to adjust its flavour, and served during banquets and feasts, beer was as a display of family’s abundance to everyone attending.

Today, much like glass, beer making history has seen many changes, and the formula of the drink has been tweaked countless times as people’s taste evolves. But one thing remains undeniable: it’s popularity. – that’s more than 65,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools (and that doesn’t include independent microbreweries and home brewers). – that’s more than 461 billion cans of beer, or 65,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools (and that doesn’t include independent microbreweries and home brewers).

The first beer in glass

Ancient origins

The first instance of beer in glass comes from Ancient Egypt. Back then, beer was brewed in ceramic vessels before being served in intricate, handmade glasses – the predecessor to mass produced beer cans. This ancient tradition of serving beer continued through the centuries.

Glassblowing era

By the Middle Ages, European artisans began to produce blown glass – a technique in which they blow air into molten glass and shape it while it’s still hot and malleable.

Fluted mug

The art of glassblowing quickly spread throughout the Middle East and Europe, and with it came new ways of enjoying and serving beer. One example is the “fluted” pint mug – the classic mug we know today. It was designed to prevent the warmth of our hands from heating the brew, as opposed to metal cans which conduct heat easily, to keep it cooler for longer.

Beer today

Fast forward to today, beer bottles come in all sorts of designs. From different bottle colours to clever shapes and eye-catching labels, each beer comes with a unique experience and packaging – and coming in a can or bottle plays a big part in that.

Beer bottles vs. cans: which one is better?

Taste and Quality

When it comes to the taste of beer in bottles vs cans, glass packaging is the clear winner.

First, glass is naturally leak-proof, meaning it doesn’t need any additional lining to keep your brew fresh and properly sealed. Cans, on the other hand, rely on a special plastic coating, which could leak chemicals into the beer and compromises its flavour – even after pouring.

Some people also notice a ‘tinny’ taste in cans, because of the metallic note of the aluminium. This can subtly affect the flavour of the brew and its aroma, especially as your nose gets close to the can while you’re sipping.

Compared to cans, the thickness of glass also does a better job at protecting your beer from oxygenation and developing a stale or cardboard-like taste.

Environment and Circularity

One of the main qualities of glass, compared to other materials, is that it can be safely recycled and reused.

Glass containers can be remelted into new products endless times without losing their quality in the process. This makes recycled glass a key ingredient in producing new containers — saving energy and other natural resources.

A key difference between bottles and cans also lies in their composition. Unlike cans, bottles don’t require any additional plastic linings, meaning they don’t release harmful chemicals into the environment, nor do they break down into small particles that could affect your drink.

Durability

Thanks to their chemical composition and physical properties, glass bottles are durable and much more resistant to dents and punctures than beer cans. This means that they keep their shape better during transport and handling, and are less susceptible to surface damage, when compared to cans.

Surface damage can affect functionality, compromise the aesthetic of cans and, in extreme cases, weaken the seal or coating inside.

Storage

One of beer’s worst enemies is sunlight, and this plays a big role in how it should be stored. When beer is exposed to too much light, the hop compounds can break down and react with the proteins – resulting in that unpleasant “skunky” flavour.

While the colour of a can has no bearing on the flavour of the beer inside, the colour of glass plays a big role in its taste. Basically, the specific colour of the glass determines how much sunlight reaches the drink. Coloured glass (brown or green) is the best for filtering UV rays, whereas clear bottles offer less protection. Amber bottles can block up to 99.9% of UV rays, which is why they’re one of the most popular choices for protecting your brew.

While cans can also shield beer from sunlight, bottles have the upper hand when it comes to long-term storage and preventing oxidation. When sealed properly and stored under the right conditions, bottles form a natural barrier that stops oxygen from interacting with your beer, which can make it go stale. On the flip side, beer cans tend to oxidise when they’re stored upside down, shaken around too much, or stored in places that are too warm.

Experience

Beyond the question of beer taste in bottles vs. cans, glass is the go-to for anyone looking for a unique experience.

Bottles are worlds apart from cans when it comes to mouthfeel, particularly the traditional glass-to-lips experience. Imagine you are grabbing a beer from the fridge, popping the cap off and listening to the foam fizz through the neck before toasting your friend with a customary ‘clink’ – it’s a classic that can’t be recreated with a can.

Also, it’s important to remember that most of what we taste comes from what we smell. With cans, the scent of the metal can get in the way and distract you from the beer’s true flavour. Glass, on the other hand, is completely neutral, so it lets you fully savour the aroma of the brew.

Historical value

Humans have been brewing and packaging beer for thousands of years. Over time, the designs of bottles have become more than just containers – they’ve turned into collectibles. They reflect unique cultures and traditions, which are now part of our common heritage.

From the brightly coloured enamelling of the Islamic Golden Age to the filigree ornaments of the Renaissance, each bottle tells a story – not just of the beer, but of the people who made it. Cans, on the other hand, don’t make great keepsakes – because they get dented and scratched over time, ruining their design.

Beer buffs around the world collect antique bottles as a way to celebrate the heritage of beermaking and keep a piece of its remarkable history for themselves. Many enthusiasts also enjoy rifling through antique stores, estate sales, auctions and online marketplaces to find the most niche beer bottles.

Aesthetics

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of your favourite beer? The taste? The aroma? While those are important, more often than not, it’s the packaging that sticks in your mind. And chances are, you picture a bottle before a can.

Much of this comes down to style and aesthetics. That’s why many beer lovers also enjoy collecting bottles, thanks to their eye-catching designs and labels. This visual appeal is hard to match in cans, especially because they don’t hold their shape as well as bottles.

So, whether you’re deciding on your drink of choice for a dinner party or picking up a gift for your nearest and dearest, glass has an elevated aesthetic which makes it the perfect choice for any occasion.

What about plastic: why doesn’t beer come in plastic bottles?

The main reason beer is packaged in cans and bottles, rather than plastic, is due to carbonation. Beer loses its fizz faster in plastic, because the carbon dioxide (the bubbles we all love) can escape more easily than it would from bottles or cans.

Another reason why beer doesn’t come in plastic bottles is safety. Plastic packaging has been shown to release chemicals into drinks, especially when they’re stored in warm conditions, as heat speeds up the breakdown of plastic. This allows tiny particles to leach into beers and other drinks — and some of these microplastics have even been found in the human body.

Final Thoughts: Is One Really Better Than the Other?

As you’ve seen, packaging beer in bottles or cans makes a big difference in how it tastes. But, with glass, you don’t need to worry – because it protects your drink from sunlight, reduces oxygenation and makes sure that it keeps that lovely fizz until it reaches you.

As glass doesn’t need any plastic lining, it doesn’t interact with your beer, nor does it give you that ‘tinny’ aftertaste that cans often do. Beyond taste, drinking beer from the bottle is also a classic aesthetic experience that can’t be replaced by a can – from the satisfying ‘pop’ of the cap to the quiet fizzing of the foam as it tips down the neck, not forgetting the customary ‘clink’ of a cheers with a loved one.

So when it comes to beer, the choice is clear — there’s nothing like glass.

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The post Is beer better in glass or cans? Here’s what you need to know appeared first on friendsofglass.

Why are beer bottles green, brown or clear? The science behind colours

fogcentral — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 17:15:51 +0000

Whether it’s a bright lager, a golden-orange pale ale, or a dark, rich stout, you’ve probably noticed that beers come in a wide range of colours. But have you wondered the same about their bottles?

Have you ever stopped to think why stouts usually come in brown bottles, while lagers and pilsners come in green ones?

In this article, we’ll break down the science behind why some beer bottles are brown, green, or clear. But first things first, to understand the story of coloured bottles, we need to take a look at the beer making process.

The beer making process

Beer isn’t just an alcoholic beverage, but a truly crafted experience. It’s produced through a process called brewing, using four key ingredients: barley, hops, yeast, and, of course, water.

The beer making process begins well before brewing, with the preparation of the grain. In the malting stage, barley and other grains are soaked, allowed to germinate and then dried, creating something called malt.

It’s not until the malt reaches the brewery, that the brewing process kicks-off. During milling, malt is broken down into small particles, which are then mixed with water (the mashing phase). This produces a sweet liquid (called wort) which is then boiled with hops – giving beer its unique flavours, bitterness and aromas.

After boiling, the mix is cooled and combined with yeast during fermentation. Here sugars are converted into alcohol and carbon dioxide, giving beer its characteristic fizziness. As flavours and aromas develop over time, the beer goes through maturation, which varies depending on the style and intended intensity.

After this maturation period, beer gets filtered clarity and smoothness, and, in some cases, sometimes carbonated. Final step is packaging this liquid gold into glass bottles, which preserve beer’s taste and aroma for longer.

The different types of beer

Ales

One key difference between ales and lagers comes down to yeast and fermentation temperature. Ales prefer warmer environments, so the yeast floats at the surface while fermenting. Their taste can range from fruity to earthy, but because of the fermentation style, ales tend to be stronger and slightly sweeter. Ales usually come in brown bottles, which help protect their flavour and aroma. They’re your go-to choice for a cosy and quiet evening, when you can savour it with the time it deserves.

Lagers

Lagers are the most popular beer style, usually known for being crisp, clean, and refreshing. Unlike ales, the yeast in lagers ferments at the bottom and at lower temperatures, giving them a smoother, lighter profile. They often come in brown or green bottles and are the perfect choice for quenching your thirst on a hot summer day.

Stouts and Porters

Stouts are typically darker brown beers, and a fun secret is that they’re actually ales — the only difference is that their malt just roasts for longer. These dark ales often come in brown bottles and give off chocolate, caramel, and coffee notes. They’re perfect for colder days and can help lift your wintery mood.

Other styles

From fruit beers to radlers, to non-alcoholic options, which are also becoming more and more popular, beer styles and nuances are endless. What we’ve covered here is really just the tip, or should we say ‘sip’ of the iceberg.

But after all, what’s the deal with bottle colours? Well, you might have guessed it: different beer types also usually come in different bottle colours, and there are three main reasons for this, which we explore next.

Why are beer bottles green, brown or clear – and why does it matter?

Beer bottle colours aren’t just about aesthetics – they can help preserve beer’s flavour, aroma and quality for longer. Whether a bottle is brown, green, or clear will influence how it holds up over time, how much light can get through, and even reflects historical or regional traditions.

Preserving flavour and aroma

Glass is a natural protector when it comes to keeping beer’s flavours and aromas as originally intended. It’s not by chance that glass has also been long used to store carbonated drinks and wine.

Because it’s a single-layered material, glass doesn’t require any chemical liners that could interfere with the beer. It also blocks oxygen from sneaking in and making your beer go stale (better to brew safe than sorry).

Whether a bottle is green or brown doesn’t directly affect taste, but it does control how much sunlight gets in — and that can make all the difference.

Protecting from light damage

Light exposure is one of the main threats to beer. When beer sits in the sun for too long, sensitive hop compounds break down and react with the proteins, releasing an unpleasant “skunky” smell.

This is why most beer bottles are brown or green. Brown (amber) bottles are the most effective, blocking up to 99.9% of UV rays, retaining beer’s top-notch flavour for months on end.

Marketing and historical tradition

If brown bottles are so effective, why are green and clear bottles still used? The answer often lies in marketing and history.

After World War II, when brown glass was in short supply, European breweries began using green bottles. Over time, green bottles became associated with premium brands and higher quality. Clear bottles, on the other hand, are often used for marketing purposes, so that consumers can see the beer inside before committing to buying it.

While brown bottles have historically been the standard for storing beer, green and clear bottles have become part of brands’ identities. It just goes to show how colours, labels, and overall design can really enhance brands’ value.

Now that you know the science (and history) behind coloured bottles, you can impress your friends whenever someone asks, “Why are beer bottles green or brown?”

You can say that it all comes down to three intertwined factors: flavour and aroma, light protection and tradition.

So next time you crack open a cold beer, remember that brown or green glass isn’t just a random choice, but a crucial one!

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Consumers recognise glass packaging as safe, sustainable and fit for the future

admin — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 07:34:25 +0000

Brussels, 22 November 2022 – Glass is never waste. And as Europe marks European Week of Waste Reduction, new findings reveal that nearly 8 in 10 consumers view glass as a packaging material fit for the future – one that can help them to live healthier lives, on a healthier planet.

An independent research survey carried out among more than 4,000 consumers across 13 European countries, commissioned by the European Container Glass Federation (FEVE) for the Friends of Glass consumer platform shows the majority of consumers view glass as a packaging material that is future proof, recognising its credentials on bringing both recyclability and health benefits to the table.

Shoppers look for packaging options that are healthy as well as recycled

Against a backdrop of consumers trying to cut back on packaging, glass is the only packaging material that consumers say they use more of in the last three years – by 8% – while bag-in-box, metal, and plastic have all seen drops of between 24%-41%.

Glass is considered an integral part of a healthy living lifestyle, because it’s inherently reusable and recyclable, and recycled effectively across Europe after use and always safe even when recycled. Consumers believe in and trust glass recycling, with 8 out of 10 respondents saying they ‘always’ or ‘often’ recycle their glass packaging and 82% stating they have a good understanding of how to recycle. Half of the respondents even said they buy more in glass specifically because it can be recycled more effectively than other packaging materials. These results support recent Close the Glass Loop data on recycling rates in Europe, showing an average of 79% glass collection across the bloc.

What’s more, health and product preservation remain high on the agenda for shoppers. Respondents point to an evolved understanding of sustainability that goes beyond a single environmental focus.

6 out of 10 consumers consider reducing food waste, recycling and protecting physical and mental health as the top three sustainability elements in their everyday life.

Over a third of consumers polled stated they’re choosing more glass packaging specifically because it better preserves health and keeps products safer for longer.

7 in 10 Europeans trust recycled glass to continue to protect food and drinks from any health hazards after recycling.

As such, glass is seen by consumers as the safest recycled material and to offer the best of both worlds for packaging that’s protective of people and planet. Glass’ shelf stable qualities allow people to reduce their food waste by protecting their favourite products for longer – considered a must-have as inflation continues to bite and people look to stock up on lasting pantry staples.

Companies should lead on sustainability with the help of glass

Where most consumers believe in glass as a material for the future, they look to their favourite brands to lead on offering sustainable product packaging options – led by glass, naturally.

4 in 5 of those surveyed agreed that companies have a moral obligation to use sustainable packaging, with almost as many (78%) looking to brands to clearly state their sustainability progress or credentials on their packaging. 65% even state they trust the quality of a product more when it is packaged in glass. That’s why one way forward for brands looking to stand out from the pack could be to adopt the new Glass Hallmark. Designed as a visual tool for brands and retailers to better communicate health and environmental credentials of glass to consumers, the hallmark is intended to remind consumers what they love about glass and how easy it is to recycle it.

Businesses know that the right packaging plays a vital role in product preservation, recall, brand differentiation and experience. Glass has long been a trusted partner in this. To this end, the container glass industry actively looks to reinforce its credentials on light weighting, recycling and decarbonisation to meet brands’ and consumers’ demands for more sustainable packaging options that continue to deliver on consumer experience.

Commenting on the survey results, Adeline Farrelly, Secretary General of FEVE, the European Container Glass Federation said:

“As people continue to celebrate the International Year of Glass, and policymakers set their sights on new waste reduction targets, these findings prove that consumers increasingly recognise glass as a healthy, widely recycled everyday packaging material – one that is already proven to deliver on commitments to a healthier world.

As an industry we are constantly looking for ways to innovate to ensure glass continues to be a sustainable material that we can rely on to protect our health and that of the planet. We’re happy to see consumers recognize these qualities and validate that glass is the packaging material that will see us into the future. Now it’s over to our favourite brands to pick up that challenge.”

We’re all trying to live better, from how we consume and dispose of products to how we look after our own health. Yet packaging remains crucial to preserve products through delivery and storage, and to ensure longer shelf stability of products once purchased. Glass is a natural material, produced by using raw materials (sand, soda ash, limestone) in combination with cullet (recycled glass). By offering a material that’s not just endlessly recyclable but remains food safe throughout the closed-loop recycling process, glass packaging continues to provide strong sustainable benefits for the health of both people and planet.

For more information on this European survey and to access the detailed findings, please visit www.glasshallmark.com. Results are also available at a country level.

For further information on the results, please contact:

Michael Delle Selve, Head of Marketing and Communications, FEVE – the European Container Glass Federation

m.delleselve@feve.org

+32 (0)2 536 00 82

About the InSites survey:

The independent survey was conducted in 2022 via independent consumer research company InSites Consulting, targeting consumers in 13 European countries: Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom. Participants were recruited via an online research panel, with a gender split of 75% female and 25% male respondents. In total, 4,107 Europeans took part.

The survey tested consumer perspectives on beverage and food packaging and how this affects their purchasing decisions, including environmental consciousness, attitudes and behaviours around recyclability, and perceptions and preferences for different forms of packaging. The purpose was to better understand the main attitudes towards sustainability and the position of glass to these attitudes. The survey built on previous findings from 2020 and 2016.

About Friends of Glass:

Since 2008, Friends of Glass has brought together a community of 220,000 people, in Europe and beyond, all of whom are passionate about their own environmental impact and who pledge to choose glass for a better planet and a healthier lifestyle. Our members know that small daily life choices add up to a big impact, and we engage with consumers and retailers to raise awareness that glass is the ideal packaging material for families and for the environment. Join the growing community of glass advocates on Facebook and Twitter and add your voice to the Friends of Glass community today at www.friendsofglass.com.

About FEVE:

FEVE – the European Container Glass Federation – is the Federation of European manufacturers of glass packaging for food and beverages as well as flacons for perfumery, cosmetics and pharmacy. The association has some 60 corporate members belonging to over 20 independent corporate groups. Its members produce 80 billion glass containers per year and include major companies working for the world’s biggest consumer brands. With its 160 manufacturing plants located across 23 European States, the industry is a key economic partner in Europe, and maintains 125.000 jobs along the total supply chain. See more on www.feve.org – Join us on Twitter @FeveEU.

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5 reasons to buy milk in glass bottles

admin — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 11:01:45 +0000

Here’s 5 reasons to choose glass when you buy milk:

1. Milk Bottles Contain Farm Fresh Milk

Often milk travels great distances before it gets processed into the final product. Unlike milk in glass bottles, which comes from local farms and can be from the cow to your table in as little as 24 hours. This quick turnaround greatly increases the shelf life. Milk in glass bottles is left closer to its original state than milk in other packaging. Due to the less processed nature of the milk, more enzymes remain. This makes it easier to digest, and many people with milk intolerances can drink milk in glass bottles.

2. Milk Bottles Stay Colder

Glass bottles keep milk cold longer. Colder milk is tastier milk.

3. Milk glass bottles are endlessly recyclable

Glass dairy containers are good for the environment because glass is one of the most recyclable materials you can use. It’s actually 100% recyclable and it can be recycled endlessly—without loss in quality or purity—into new glass bottles or jars. Additionally, the more recycled glass we use to make new glass, the less raw materials the industry needs to use to produce glass.

4. Milk Bottles Make Milk Tastes Better

Glass bottles don’t transfer a foreign scent and taste into the milk, the way paper or plastic containers do. Drinking milk from glass bottles is the only way to get that delicious true milk taste. The tastier the milk, the more likely kids will drink it. Which is a win for parents everywhere.

5. Milk Bottles Elevate Aesthetics

Milk in glass bottles isn’t just better for taste and the environment—it also adds a touch of elegance to your fridge. With their sleek, timeless design, glass bottles bring a clean and polished look that plastic or carton containers just can’t match. Whether neatly lined up on a shelf or proudly displayed during breakfast, glass milk bottles provide a premium aesthetic that enhances the overall kitchen experience. The clear transparency also lets you see exactly how much milk is left, adding both style and practicality to your fridge.

85% of Europeans would recommend glass packaging to their friends and family. You should, too.

Choose glass. Recycle glass.

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Why does beer taste better in glass?

admin — Sun, 25 Aug 2024 16:14:11 +0000

Reasons why beer is better in glass

Natural, inside and out

Beer is made from natural ingredients – and so is glass. Made of sand, soda ash, limestone and recycled glass (cullet), there’s no need for any additional synthetic liners, and no risk of harmful chemicals getting into your drink. It protects the quality and preserves the taste of your drink, letting you enjoy it just as it was intended by the brewer.

Besides being made from natural ingredients, glass bottles are endlessly recyclable and returnable dozens of times, which facilitates circularity and conscious consumption. Every time you bring your empty container to the bottle bank, it will be on its way to be recycled into a new bottle or jar, ready to store your next drink, food or cosmetics product.

Preventing oxidation and staling

Taste preservation and quality are considered the most important reasons for consumers to buy beer in glass bottles. But how do bottles protect the taste?

Simply put, they ensure that your favourite ale, lager or IPA doesn’t go stale. Glass acts as an effective barrier against external influences. This prevents the aromas from escaping while shielding your drink from interacting with oxygen. It’s this interaction with oxygen that can make your drink go stale.

Protects against light exposure

But not only can beers go stale, they can also get ‘skunky’. Ask any craft brewer and they’ll tell you this happens when the hop in beer gets ‘light-struck,’ in other words when it’s exposed to too much light. When hit with sunlight, the sensitive hops compounds break down and mix with the proteins, releasing an unpleasant smell.

Thankfully, an amber bottle can provide even 99.9% protection from UV rays. That’s why so many specially crafted brews come in brown or amber bottles, retaining their top-notch flavour for months on end.

It’s safe and inert

As glass is natural and inert, it prevents any transfer of flavours into or from the beer. It’s a single-layered material which doesn’t require any chemical liners that could interact with the beverages. The quality of the packaging also remains the same, no matter how many times it is recycled, making it the most stable packaging material.

Stylish design

Glass is pure quality, crafted to perfection – just like our favourite beers. Looking beyond the label, the bottles allow for special brews and pints to be packaged in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours – leading to unique, eye-catching designs that match the originality of the brew and the brand.

That’s what adds to the thrill for many beer lovers who collect and display their favourite bottles from around the world at home. We’re particularly impressed by the efforts of American collector Rob Werner, who holds the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of beer bottles in the world, at an impressive 42,645 bottles and rising – setting the standard for us all!

Experience of drinking

Glass is one of the few packaging materials that can stir an emotional connection and transform any event, large or small, into a real celebration.

Bottles are the perfect choice, not just for everyday craft beer experiences, but also special occasions. Major moments in our lives, from birthdays to celebrating personal accomplishments, wouldn’t be the same without the sound of two bottles “clinking” together to mark the moments that matter. That’s what makes glass a material like no other, and why we chose to celebrate it in the International Year of Glass.

How do bottles compare to other packaging materials?

So, we know that glass preserves a carefully crafted brew’s aroma and authentic taste, while maintaining its freshness and carbonation for longer. But what about other packaging materials? Does beer taste different in glass, compared to plastic or cans?

Plastic

Based on scientific research, plastic isn’t as effective at preventing oxidation and stalling as glass. Using plastic bottles can affect the quality of the drink, as the structure of most plastics is less effective at retaining carbonation and preventing oxidation.

According to Brewers Association’s Chuck Skypeck, using plastic can even make your ale, stout or lager go ‘skunky’ as plastic bottles can’t adequately protect drinks from heat and sunlight exposure

Cans

Many people wonder how aluminium cans rate as an alternative to glass. Some researchers took it to the test and assessed whether people preferred bottled or canned beers.

They discovered that 61% of people prefer to drink beer from bottle, while only 11% prefer to drink it from a can. When asked, participants rated the drink poured from a bottle as tasting better than from a can. They also agreed that glass bottles stay colder longer – with 53% of beer lovers confirming it.

Besides, when having people over for dinner or a celebration, would you rather set the table filled with cans, or with finely designed bottles? Most people would never buy their beer for a special event in any packaging other than glass– and we couldn’t agree more!

“Packaging is very important on the way the beer tastes and the way it looks. […] For me, as an advocate for beer, the shape of glassware can definitely affect the taste and drinking experience of the beer.”

Jane Peyton, Beer Sommelier

How to store beer at home

As much as we wish it could, the flavour of your favourite lager, stout or IPA doesn’t last forever. As soon as it is made, the aging process starts. The taste and aroma of the hops deteriorate over time and with exposure to air, light, or warm temperatures. So, how can you ensure that your pint or ale tastes just as good later?

For most beers, the best way to extend their lifespan is to refrigerate them as soon as possible after you’ve bought them. For most beers…

Alcohol by Volume (ABV)

It’s important to know what you’re drinking. A first step to differentiate is to look at the ABV – Alcohol by Volume. If this is higher than 8%, you have more time before the taste fades. Alcohol acts as a preservative, so the higher the alcohol percentage, the longer it takes for your beer to age.

High-ABVs drinks are best stored in a dark and preferably cool place – but it doesn’t need to be as cold as your freezer. A basement or cellar should do just fine.

On the other hand, India Pale Ale (IPA) is a type of brew with more hops, which gives it a stronger taste, that ages faster and should be consumed fresh to ensure you get the full experience of the hop aromatics. Storing these in the fridge also makes them a bit too cold for drinking, which means you’ll have to let them warm up again when you decide to drink them.

Storage temperature

Otherwise, beer should be stored in the fridge at 0°C.F This is crucial to prevent any loss of taste. When left at room temperature, it should be consumed within 30 days, or you’ll start to notice the taste fading.

If you don’t have space in your fridge, you can safely store beer bottles in the freezer for a short period of time. As alcohol has a lower freezing point than pure water, it will take more time for them to freeze. It usually takes around one hour to become completely frozen, but the higher the alcohol percentage, the longer it will take.

However, don’t forget about them! Frozen beer will lead to extra pressure, as it has a higher volume, which can damage the bottle or pop it open. The best option, when the fridge is full, is to store them in a dark and cool place.

Upright or on its side?

The last important rule is to always store your bottles upright, unlike wine bottles that should be stored on their side. This reduces the amount of beer that gets in contact with the air trapped in the bottle. The less air contact, the less oxidation will occur, meaning it breaks down more slowly and you can store it for a longer time.

Bottom line: Why beer tastes better in glass

Glass is the natural choice for everyday craft beer experiences and special occasions. It consistently ranks first for protecting taste and being 100% and endlessly recyclable, making it the most sustainable packaging material out there.

Not only does it protect taste and quality, but it also adds to the experience. It ensures your craft beer’s quality is as high as it was intended and that unique bottle design will take your celebration to the next level.

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What are the benefits of glass in a circular economy?

admin — Sun, 25 Aug 2024 13:25:52 +0000

What is a circular economy?

The circular economy is the opposite of the linear economy – a system which assumes that our supply of resources is infinite and that the earth will digest all our waste. Unfortunately, we all know this is not the case. We need to be smart and efficient in how we use the materials available to us, as there is a limit, and we are already tapping into the resources of future generations.

That’s why you may hear people and politicians talk about the importance of moving towards a ‘circular economy.’ A circular economy can be defined as

a production and consumption model in which existing materials and products are shared, leased, reused, repaired, renovated, or recycled for as long as possible.

The goal is to extend the life cycle of products and thereby reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing new ones from raw materials.

The 3 key principles

The circular economy aims to reduce our waste by repurposing our resources and it’s based on three principles:

1. Eliminating waste and pollution

To effectively eliminate waste, we need to rethink how we design our products. As a result, many companies are now choosing reusable packaging materials which can be recycled after extensive usage.

2. Circulating products and materials

Circularity means that what would previously have been considered waste becomes the source material for new products, reducing the overall amount of waste going to landfill (or worse!). Glass is a shining example of such an endless production cycle, with already 80% of glass in Europe being collected for recycling.

3. Restoring nature

By returning nutrients to the soil to support regeneration, avoiding pollution or landfills caused by waste disposal, or using renewable energy, a circular economy avoids use of non-renewable resources while preserving or enhancing renewable ones.

How does it work?

The circular economy consists of three important steps: reduce, reuse and recycle.

In the case of glass, reducing the use of non-renewable materials lowers the amount of waste resulting from production and cuts back on the amount of energy necessary to melt and shape the glass. That’s why increasing glass collection rates through initiatives like ‘Close the Glass Loop’ is a core component in the industry’s efforts to make the packaging we rely on everyday climate neutral.

Products should also be designed in a way that they can be reused multiple times without losing their value. Glass packaging is the perfect example, as bottles can be reused and refilled up to 50 times before being recycled. Even when recycled, glass doesn’t lose its qualities, closing the loop on a complete circular economy.

Once your bottle is in the recycling loop, the journey begins to become a new bottle, container or jar.

Whether it’s collected directly from your kerbside, or you drop it off at a bottle bank, increasing our glass recycling rate is vital for manufacturers to cut back on raw materials and drive forward a circular and sustainable economy. At the same time, the industry yearly invests 610 million euros in innovative technologies to reduce the energy consumption used to produce glass.

Why is the circular economy important?

As the world’s population continues to grow, we must face the fact that there are not infinite materials and resources available to sustain everyone if we continue at our current rate of consumption and disposal. By focusing on reusing and recycling, future generations will also be able to live a comfortable life.

And that’s not all: taking raw materials from nature impacts our ecosystems. If we want to preserve our nature and biodiversity, it is important we find better uses for the materials we already have, instead of continuously taking more from nature.

What are the benefits of the circular economy?

It decreases the use of non-renewable resources.
It reduces carbon emissions.
It aims for zero waste.
It opens new opportunities for companies.

How is glass an example of the circular economy?

To ensure products and materials are in use for as long as possible, we need to minimise resource input and waste creation, which is why recycling is so important.

When it comes to circularity, glass has long been the pioneer of packaging materials. Since it is completely natural – made from sand, soda ash, limestone and cullet – it is 100% and infinitely recyclable. A perfume flacon can be recycled into a bottle for juice, which in turn can be recycled in a jar for yoghurt. The cycle is endless, and the best part is that no additional by-products are created in this process.

And because glass is inert, it does not matter how often it is recycled, it will always be a safe packaging material.

Facts about glass in the circular economy

So how does this fit into our objectives to live more sustainably? Here are the key benefits of glass that make it a prime example of the circular economy:

1. It is 100% recyclable, again and again.

Recycling means the economy can continue to flourish in a sustainable way, by reusing supplies and creating jobs to remake and resell products that we all rely on as consumers. In fact, most of Europe’s glass is already recycled (recycling rates are at 80% and rising in Europe!) – but with your help, we can reach 100%. Learn more about how you can better recycle and sort glass.

2. It’s reusable and refillable.

In addition to its recyclability properties, glass can be reused and refilled without losing quality. Bottles can be used up to 50 times before recycling and remelting them into new containers at the end of their lives – closing the loop on a complete circular economy.

3. It is good for the environment.

Recycling saves energy, natural resources, and substantially lowers carbon emissions. As cullet requires less energy to be melted and shaped, every tonne of cullet used saves 670 kg of CO2!

4. Glass is made right next door!

Most of the bottles we consume are made within a 300km radius, with each plant in Europe providing nearly 300 direct jobs for local workers. Perhaps you even know someone working at one of the many plants!

5. It creates jobs.

As a result of these local manufacturing plants, recycling and production are rooted in local communities that provide around 125,000 local and diversified job opportunities throughout Europe.

6. It supports the local economy.

The industry contributes €9.5 billion to the EU GDP every year. A trial by Carrefour in Spain even showed that having the option of glass bottles on display in the supermarket can drive up sales as it becomes easier for all of us to make more sustainable choices as consumers.

7. Glass has never been lighter.

Bottles have become much lighter in the past 20 years, with some bottles as much as 30% lighter than before. By lightweighting, less material is used, and the overall emissions across the supply chain can be reduced by 10-30%.

Ways you can contribute to a circular economy

So now you know what a circular economy is and where glass fits in, what can you do to help? The good news is that there are several things we can all do to contribute to a circular and more sustainable economy.

First, we need to take a step back and think about the impact we have on the environment and how our actions can play a critical role in protecting it. Start by prioritising products that are environmentally friendly, sustainably produced and made from recycled materials. Replacing your disposable containers with reusable glass bottles and jars is just one of the ways you can reduce waste and help achieve a circular economy.

Secondly, we must change the way we look at used materials and packaging. Instead of viewing used packaging as waste, we should look at packaging as a resource and find new and creative ways to repurpose it. And in cases that’s not possible, we be sure that we are recycling the right way, or look at the best way to dispose of them safely.

By learning more about how the circular economy works and how we can contribute, we can face up to the challenges of the climate crisis and contribute to restoring our environment, without harming nature further.

The post What are the benefits of glass in a circular economy? appeared first on friendsofglass.

What is the difference between glass and crystal?

admin — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 14:56:22 +0000

The term crystal is often used to refer to glassware that has a more elegant form. However, that is not the official difference between these two materials. So, what type of glass is crystal? Can it be recycled? And how are they different?

How is crystal different from glass?

Glass

Glass is an inert and natural material, made from raw materials that are abundant in nature and sustainably sourced, such as sand, soda ash and limestone. Combined with recycled glass, these substances are then heated in a furnace into a liquid state that can be molded into a desired shape.

Other minerals like silica and barium can be added to manipulate the color, durability, and thickness to create different types – such as crystal.

Crystal

Unlike the name suggests, crystal glass doesn’t contain a crystalline structure. The name stems from the Italian word “Cristallo”, which was used for high-end hand-blown glass in Murano, Italy.

This means it’s a subcategory of glass packaging or glassware, made in the same way, but with different components. That’s the reason why all crystal is glass, but not all glass is crystal.

It contains strengthening minerals like lead-oxide, potassium carbonate or barium oxide to make the material more durable. The added strength allows the crystal to be molded into thin, delicate shapes, which we often associate with sophisticated craftmanship and elegance.

Glass vs. crystal: which is better?

Recyclability

Glass itself is sustainable, inert, and 100% recyclable, reusable and refillable. It can be recycled endlessly without losing any of its quality or purity.

Recycled glass, also called cullet, is the most important ingredient in glass manufacturing. The benefit of using cullet to produce new jars and bottles is that it uses 40% less energy than virgin materials to be melted and shaped. By increasing the amount of cullet that goes into production through industry projects like Close the Glass Loop, we’re conserving natural resources and energy – every 10% increase in cullet, leads to a 3% reduction in energy consumption. That’s why it‘s so important to make that little trip to the bottle bank each week to recycle our jars, bottles and containers.

Crystal on the other hand is one of the types of glass that cannot be recycled. As it is made with added materials, such as barium, potassium and zinc oxide, it can’t be recycled together with jars and bottles.

Strength

Because crystal is made with added minerals, the material is stronger and more durable. This is different from glass stemware, which needs a certain thickness not to break.

Of course, crystal should be handled with care, but your collection of wine glasses will never lose their shiny personality, and they’ll hardly ever scratch.

Elegance and design

Compared to crystal, glass is a cheaper option. This is because it requires less materials to be produced, making it more affordable for consumers.

However, part of the reason crystal is more expensive than glass, is also because it is perceived as more elegant and sophisticated. Its added ingredients make it slightly porous, giving it the ability to refract light.

It can also be crafted into a wide range of different designs. Unlike glass, crystal is soft enough to add smooth hand-cut details to its surface without compromising its durability or structure. The material can be molded and shaped more easily than glass, allowing the artist to add different intricate patterns.

What are crystal and glass used for?

Glass is one of the most stable packaging materials. Thanks to its inertness, there is no risk of harmful chemicals coming into contact with food or drinks. This makes it a safe option for long-term storage and protection of food and beverages.

Crystal, in comparison, contains additional elements, namely lead oxide. Due to the possible contamination from lead oxide into your food or beverages, it’s often advised not to use this for food storage. However, under normal consumption conditions, no hazardous lead is released, making it safe to use.

The increasing concerns of lead crystal have led to the development of “lead-free crystal glass.” To make crystal safer for food storage, the only difference is that the lead oxide in the production is replaced with barium oxide, zinc oxide, or potassium oxide.

How can you tell the difference between glass and crystal?

The main difference is that crystal contains anywhere from 2–30% minerals (lead or lead-free), making it possible to produce durable but thin glasses.

It is also more transparent, brighter and thinner, making it a desirable choice for high-end glassware and decorations. Its refracting properties are like a prism, decomposing the light coming through in the form of a rainbow.

Regular glass is often a little bit foggy in appearance and can typically feature a tint based on the ingredients in its composition. It can have a green tint if made with iron or a blue tint if made with soda lime. It’s also typically lighter in weight in comparison to crystal pieces of the same design.

Lastly, the most famous difference is the sound. Glass provides a dull, short, and subtle chime when tapped or flicked with your finger. When tapping crystal you hear a satisfying bell-like ringing sound, as different added materials allow the sounds to be slightly prolonged.

So, now that you know all the differences between glass and crystal and how to spot them, you can make more informed decisions when choosing the right products to buy.

Do you want to know more about the different types of glass and how to recycle them? Find here our guide on how glass recycling works.

The post What is the difference between glass and crystal? appeared first on friendsofglass.

6 Sustainable beauty tips for your skincare routine

admin — Sun, 28 Jul 2024 15:51:25 +0000

But with the environmental impact of our everyday routines on the top of our minds, from ‘clean’ eating to ‘zero waste’ living, this moment in the day might not feel as relaxing as it did before. That’s why a growing movement of people are actively looking to incorporate more sustainable beauty products in their daily routine, one step at a time. In fact, an impressive 76% of people say they are focusing on buying products that are sustainably made.

If you’re one of them, but don’t know where to start – we’ve got you covered.

What is sustainable beauty?

Let’s start with the basics: what is sustainable beauty, exactly? And why should we care about it? The terms “green”, “sustainable” and “natural” are often used interchangeably in the cosmetics industry. This might make you wonder what the best out of the three is.

In reality, they are usually the same. That’s why we should focus less on the semantic terms and more on what it entails. Generally speaking, sustainable beauty or ‘green’ cosmetics refers to the use of earth-friendly beauty products and packaging materials that don’t harm people, animals or nature.

This means using natural ingredients, such as natural oils from a lavender or coconut, agricultural plants like soybeans and corn or even certain bacteria.

But we should also be aware of the materials used in both the product and the packaging. Sustainable beauty products use renewable or recycled materials, such as glass, to reduce how much waste comes out of our skincare routines.

Why is this important?

Choosing to go for a sustainable skincare routine, or other beauty products, is not only beneficial for yourself, but also for the environment.

First, opting for sustainable cosmetics mean that you can trust the healing properties of natural ingredients. This means no artificial or even toxic ingredients. In fact, natural ingredients are better for your skin, as they are safer and can provide you with long-term health benefits – the natural oils and ingredients don’t just repair, but also protect your skin.

Focusing on sustainable beauty products also means taking responsibility for the planet. Making more eco-conscious choices in the products and packaging you use can help decrease your carbon footprint, simply by cutting back on your waste. You might even inspire your friends do to the same!

How to have a more sustainable skincare routine

Making your daily skincare routine more sustainable doesn’t have to be difficult. The important thing is to take it one step at a time. Or better said, one product at a time. Take it slow, and a more sustainable skincare routine will come to you naturally, allowing you to fully enjoy your mornings or end your day even more relaxed.

Don’t leave the water running

Let’s start with the easiest way to lower your environmental footprint without changing up your routine too much: don’t leave the water running! Simply dampen your fingertips and then turn off the tap. When massaging your facial cleanser into your skin, the water doesn’t need to be constantly running. While this may seem like a very small contribution, it’s estimated that a running tap wastes 6 litres of water every minute! Doing this every day will save hundreds of litres of water over the course of a year.

Use reusable shopping bags

Secondly, and just as easy: remember to bring your own bag when shopping for new skincare products. Reusable shopping bags have become increasingly popular, especially for grocery shopping. But why stop there? Bring them when shopping for beauty products, new clothes, home decorations or birthday gifts. Every time you reuse your shopping bag, you’re making a difference.

Perhaps you prefer to do your shopping online, as your favourite brand might not have a physical store, or a specific perfume or serum you are looking for was sold out in the store. In that case, try to buy all the products you need at the same time. This way you’re easily cutting down on transport emissions from the delivery.

Buy from sustainable brands

Another direct way to make your skincare routine more sustainable is to start buying from sustainable brands. Choose to support businesses that are contributing to our environment, rather than harming it.

The good news is that more and more companies are producing sustainable skincare, makeup, and hair-care products, packaged in renewable materials like glass. For example, REN Clean Skincare launched their new sustainable face mask line using recycled glass for their packaging.

Another example is the N°1 DE CHANEL: an environmentally responsible beauty line using up to 97% naturally derived ingredients, and sold in eco-friendly glass packaging that protects fragrances, eye creams, serums, foundations and rouges from deterioration.

Choose natural ingredients, in natural packaging

When choosing which product to try or buy, pay attention to the ingredient labels to find out what the product is made of. For example, vegan ingredients can help protect the Earth’s ecosystem. Seeking out fairtrade beauty products is another way to be more sustainable with your beauty routine, by looking for products made with ethically sourced ingredients and where workers have been treated and compensated fairly.

Another important thing to consider is the packaging of the product. A large part of our carbon footprint stems from packaging waste. But this is easily reduced by opting for more sustainable packaging options, such as glass. Not only is glass made from natural and sustainably source ingredients – sand, soda ash, limestone and recycled glass – it can also be reused and recycled without harming the environment or our health.

Prefer recyclable and refillable containers

Brands are increasingly offering recyclable and refillable cosmetics containers that are designed to protect products, while having a smaller footprint on the environment. This means they are made from materials that can be safely reused and recycled, such as glass. This makes glass containers convenient and hygienic to use.

By choosing recyclable and refillable containers for your skincare products, you’re saving money, while reducing waste and fighting pollution at the same time. You can often check at the store or online what the options are to refill your old make-up or beauty product containers and jars.

Recycle jars and containers

Another quick win is to recycle your skincare products. With beauty products it is important to check whether the packaging is recyclable. The good thing is that your face serums, cleansers or moisturizers packaged in glass containers are often 100% recyclable.

Usually these can be recycled with other glass jars or bottles you would bring to the bottle bank.

Still, it is important to check your local recycling regulations on where to exactly dispose of your beauty jars and containers, as this can vary from one city to another. There are also increasing numbers of brands, stores and manufacturers offering recycling programs.

A natural daily home skincare routine

When you decide to switch to a more natural daily skincare routine, there’s no need to throw out your old skincare products at once. When doing so, the options might seem overwhelming.

Our advice: keep it easy and start simple. Whenever one of your products is empty, replace it with a more sustainable product. One step at a time, your daily routine and habits will become greener.

The post 6 Sustainable beauty tips for your skincare routine appeared first on friendsofglass.

Why does coke taste better in glass?

admin — Mon, 27 May 2024 12:01:10 +0000

The famous beverage known all over the world

Coca-Cola, or simply Coke, is a carbonated soft drink with an interesting history – the drink was originally intended as a medicine for minor illnesses, such as heartburn, nausea, and headaches. Imagine seeing that on a prescription from your doctor!

It was 1886 when pharmacist John S. Pemberton in the US invented a new syrup that would be the start of the famous Coca-Cola. When carbonated water was added to the syrup, a new beverage was produced that was described to be both ‘delicious and refreshing’ at the same time.

Pemberton originally went to the market with his invention as a tonic for common ailments, but in 1903 the formula of the drink slightly changed and Pemberton started selling it as a soda beverage instead. That was the beginning of the famous and successful Coca-Cola we still know today.

Nowadays, coke from the Coca-Cola company is served in over 200 countries, selling more than 1.9 billion drinks every single day. This number doesn’t even count the production and selling of other well-known brands, such as Pepsi or Dr Pepper.

Reasons why soda is better in glass bottles

Coke has a very specific taste – you either love it or hate it. Both caffeinated and carbonated, it is the perfect sweetened drink to give you a little boost during the day, without having to resort to the more bitter and stronger alternative of coffee.

But even with such a specific recipe and taste, many people have said there are subtle variations noticeable in taste, depending on how long it has been shelved, how it has been stored

Some people explain the difference in taste by the influence of our ‘soda-consumption rituals’, such as pouring the coke into a glass with ice or popping open a bottle cold and fresh from the fridge. Others explain it by looking at the packaging material. While Coca-Cola and other soda manufacturers have clear instructions to follow a uniform process across the world in their production, the taste is unquestionably affected by exposure to light and shelf-life.

Your best bet for getting Coca-Cola’s pure, unaltered taste is to drink it from a glass bottle, the most inert material it’s served in. Read on to find out why.

Glass is inert and natural, keeping the taste intact

Glass ensures the taste of the soda remains the same. Founder of the food and packaging consultancy Science by Design Sara Risch explained that while the formula for the drink might remain the same, the packaging it is stored in can impact the flavour and experience of a beverage.

For example, aluminium cans include polymer lining that can absorb small amounts of flavour. Plastic bottles, on the other hand, may transfer chemicals that can alter the way a beverage tastes. Being an inert and natural material, with glass there are no chemicals that can leach into the liquid and affect the coke’s flavour. That’s why drinking out of a bottle may be the best way to get the purest Coca-Cola flavour.

Keep your coke fizzy

Most soft drinks have bubbles, and it is one of the many reasons why we love them so much. Imagine a soda without the bubbles – it simply wouldn’t be the same. Have you ever noticed that the big litre bottle of coke at the top of your fridge doesn’t taste that great after a few weeks, even if it hasn’t been opened?

Plastic bottles – which are often used for litre – are much more CO2-permeable than glass. This means the carbon dioxide – also known as fizz – will leak out of a plastic bottle much faster than from a glass bottle.

Any type of soda with bubbles will stay fresh longer when stored in glass, because it’s much harder for CO2 to escape through it. As a non-porous, single-layer material, it acts as a protective barrier against external elements. It keeps out oxygen, light and heat, but also ensures none of the gas in the soda can escape, which is why it’s called “impermeable”. Your soda won’t go flat and will taste delicious whenever you decide to open it.

Glass bottles are safe and natural

Made from natural ingredients only – sand, soda ash, limestone and recycled glass (cullet) – there’s no need for any additional synthetic liners, and no risk of harmful chemicals getting into your drink. It protects the quality and preserves the taste the beverage, letting you enjoy it just as it was intended.

Besides being natural, glass bottles are endlessly recyclable and returnable dozens of times, which facilitates circularity, boosts local economies and encourages a more conscious consumption. Every time you bring your empty container to the bottle bank, it will be on its way to be recycled into a new bottle or jar, ready to store your next soda.

Coca-Cola’s iconic design through glass

It’s easy to spot a Coca Cola bottle in the store. Not only the company’s famous logo and colours, but even their bottle has an iconic design that across Europe is considered the most distinctive glass packaging. Their bottles were designed specifically with the intent to be “so distinctive that it could be recognised by touch alone and so unique it could be identified when shattered on the ground.”

The result was the iconic Coca-Cola bottle inspired by the curves and grooves of the gourd-shaped cocoa bean, an ingredient the designers originally thought was in the product. While this was not the case, the unique design stuck and continues to be a unique mark of Coca-Cola’s branding.

A cheer with glass adds to the experience

Glass is one of the few packaging materials that can stir an emotional connection and transform any event, large or small, into a real celebration. It’s therefore not surprising Coca-Cola itself describes their bottled beverage as ‘Real Magic’.

But whether it’s Coca-Cola, Pepsi, orange soda or a ginger beer, choosing to drink it from a bottle elevates the experience and allows you to appreciate the taste more than when it comes in another packaging material.

How to store soda at home

Soda is known for its fizziness and it simply tastes best when you drink it fresh, with all the bubbles still there. However, how long can you store your beverage in case you decide to buy some soda in bulk or you simply want to keep your drink for another moment?

Storing soda that hasn’t been opened:

While the bottle is unopened, you can store coke in your pantry. It doesn’t necessarily need to be stored in your fridge. What’s important to keep it fresh longer, is to store it in a cool dark place with a constant temperature.

Just be aware that the shelf life of cola can last up to six to nine months if unopened and properly stored.

Storing

The best way to preserve the fizziness of your soda once opened is to store it in a bottle with a lid. This ensures the carbonation cannot leak out. If a bottle has an airtight seal, the gas that makes your drink fizzy has nowhere to go – keeping your beverage carbonated for as long as the seal holds.

By using glass bottles to store cola, you’ll keep a good amount of carbonation for the next 2 or 3 days.

Why is the freezer a “no-go” for storing your carbonated drinks:

Whether you choose the pantry, your fridge or a box under your bed to store your cokes, one place you should avoid is definitely your freezer.

A bottle of carbonated soda should not stay in the freezer for a long time. When frozen or even thawed, the carbonation in the drink will dissipate, leaving the beverage bland and flat. Another risk is that a frozen drink puts extra pressure on the bottle, which could damage it or make it pop open.

Bottom line: Why does coke tastes better in glass

Besides its sustainable credentials, glass consistently ranks first for protecting taste of a variety of products, from beer to soda.. Not only does it keep your favourite coke safe and fresh for longer, but the unique designs and natural credentials of these bottles make for a better experience allowing you to taste the drink in the purest way.

Next time in the store, will you buy your coke in glass?

The post Why does coke taste better in glass? appeared first on friendsofglass.

DIY Treat Jars for you this Easter

admin — Sun, 10 Mar 2024 10:04:01 +0000

All you will need is:

-A clean and empty glass jar (any kind will do)

-Vinyl stickers

-Chalky Finish paint/ Spray paint

1. Either freehand or using a stencil, mark your vinyl sticker with the festive design you wish to be realised on your treat jar. Cut it out and apply the stickers to the smooth side of the jar, pressing firmly on the edges to make sure they’re completely adhered to the glass.

2. If you are using Chalky Finish paint, apply one coat and allow to dry for 10 minutes. Whilst the paint is still slightly wet, carefully peel up the vinyl stickers and remove.

If you are using Spray paint make sure that the glass jar is placed upside down when you are spraying to ensure that no paint gets inside of the jar!

3. Fill them with candy and give as gifts to your loved ones or use as the perfect container for collecting eggs on the Easter hunt.

The post DIY Treat Jars for you this Easter appeared first on friendsofglass.