Questions about Sterno® Brand Products?

Here are the answers to frequently asked questions about:

Sterno® Butane | Sterno® Brand Gels | Sterno® Brand Wicks | Other Inquiries

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions about Sterno® Butane?

Question Are there various levels of butane quality? How many sizes does a customer need to carry?
There is only one quality level, which is based on UL and DOT approval. The Standard industry size is an 8 oz. can. 

Question What is the optimum pack size?
A 12-pack is the current industry standard. The smaller pack size helps small businesses with their limited purchasing ability.

Question Where is butane sourced?
It is no industry secret that there are only 2 factories that produce butane and both are located in Korea. Our product is made in Korea. UL visits the factories quarterly to monitor quality.

Question Is special storage required to warehouse butane?
Yes. Customers new to butane should check with local regulators.

Question Can our product be used in competitors stove or other appliances?
Many competitive butane stoves are able to accept the Sterno® cartridge as long as they are UL approved for an 8oz. butane fuel cartridge. We have not tested our product with other appliances such as heaters & lanterns so we cannot make any specific claims about use with these products.

 

Questions about Sterno® Brand Gels?

Question What is Sterno® Gel product made of?
Sterno® gel is a formulation of denatured alcohol, water and gel. It is perfectly safe when used as directed.

Question What happens if the gel is consumed internally?
If Sterno® is ingested, please immediately call Poison Control at 1-888-313-8954. A medical specialist will advise you of the appropriate course of action. This number is staffed by certified medical professionals and is for MEDICAL EMERGENCIES ONLY. Alternately, you may seek medical attention.

Question How long does Sterno® burn?
The 7oz. can burns consistently or up to 2 hours. The 2.6 oz. can burns consistently or up to 45 minutes. The gel is extinguishable and can be re-lit without affecting product performance.

Question Will Sterno® Freeze?
No - Recommended storage temperatures are 40-120°F or 4-49°C

Question How long can I keep Sterno® on my shelf?
It is recommended replacing Sterno® gel product 2 years after purchase. Always replace cover when not in use. Sterno® is made partly of denatured alcohol which evaporates from prolonged exposure to air.

Question How can I dispose of old gel products?
If it is only a few cans, make sure the lid is secured tightly and dispose in a normal manner. If it is a large quantity, contact your local waste collection service for information.

Question The flame is blue, is that normal?
The flame from an alcohol mixture is normally blue and sometimes invisible. Always assume a flame is present until properly extinguished (see can label). Safe handling procedures should always be used when lighting and re-lighting. View a detailed chart of product safety handling tips.

Question What is the difference between Sterno® gel and other gelled products?
Sterno® ’s patented solid pink gel is odorless, clean burning and spill resistant.

Question Can I buy Sterno® direct from your company?
Sterno® is not sold directly to consumers. Sterno® Brand Products can be purchased through your local foodservice distributor.

Questions about Sterno® Brand Wicks?

Question What is Sterno® Wick product made of?
Sterno® wick contains a fuel, diethylene glycol, and is delivered via a wick. It is perfectly safe when used as directed.

Question What happens if the gel is consumed internally?
If Sterno® is ingested, please immediately call Poison Control at 1-888-313-8954. A medical specialist will advise you of the appropriate course of action. This number is staffed by certified medical professionals and is for MEDICAL EMERGENCIES ONLY. Alternately, you may seek medical attention.

Question How long does Sterno® burn?
The 3 oz. ST05006 can burns consistently or up to 2 hours. The 6.4 oz. ST05010 can burns consistently or up to 4 hours. The 8.6 oz. ST03009 can burns consistently or up to 6 hours. The wick is extinguishable and can be re-lit without affecting product performance.

QuestionWill Sterno® Freeze?
No - Recommended storage temperatures are 40-120°F or 4-49°C

Question How long can I keep Sterno® on my shelf?
It is recommended replacing Sterno® wick product 3 years after purchase. Always replace cover when not in use.

Question How can I dispose of old wick products?
If it is only a few cans, make sure the lid is secured tightly and dispose in a normal manner. If it is a large quantity, contact your local waste collection service for information.

Question The flame is blue, is that normal?
The flame from an alcohol mixture is normally blue and sometimes invisible. Always assume a flame is present until properly extinguished (see can label). Safe handling procedures should always be used when lighting and re-lighting. View a detailed chart of product safety handling tips.

Question Can I buy Sterno® direct from your company?
Sterno® is not sold directly to consumers. Sterno® Brand Products can be purchased through your local foodservice distributor.

Other consumer inquiries

Question If you have any questions or need more information, contact your local sales representative.

Question Call toll free 877-478-3766

Question Or Contact Us to email your question regarding Sterno® Brand Products in the Foodservice Industry.