Questions about Sterno® Brand Cooking Fuel?

If you have a question about Sterno® Brand products, please review the list of Frequently Asked Questions below as the information you need may already be available.

If you have a question not answered in this section, please feel free to contact our staff of trained Sterno® experts.

Questions about Sterno® Butane?

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

Question What happens if the cooking fuel 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.

For all other consumer inquiries please call 1-877-478-3766 and press 2 to speak to a customer service representative.

Question How long does Sterno® burn?
The 8 oz. can burns consistently or in increments equal to 2 1/2 hours. The 7 oz. can burns consistently or in increments equal to 2 1/4 hours. The 2.6 oz. can burns consistently or in increments equal to 45 minutes. The cooking fuel is extinguishable and can be re-lit without affecting product performance.

Question Will Sterno® Freeze?
No.

Question How long can I keep Sterno® on my shelf?
It is recommended replacing Sterno® cooking fuel 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 cooking fuel?
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. For a detailed chart of product safety handling tips – Click Here.

Question What is the difference between Sterno® cooking fuel and other gel products? Should I assume they perform the same?
No. Sterno’s patented solid pink gel is odorless, clean-burning and spill resistant.

Question Can I buy Sterno® direct from your company?
At this time, Sterno® is not sold directly to consumers. For a list of Sterno® Brand retailers, click on this link: Where To Buy

Question I am a retailer / distributor, how do I get information to stock Sterno® Brand products? ?
Call 1-877-478-3766 and press 2 to speak to a sales coordinator or contact one of our sales managers.

Question Other consumer inquiries:
Call toll free 1-877-478-3766 and press 2 to speak to a customer service representative. Or Contact Us to email your question.