Sterno Cans

Archie Schmidt
15 min readApr 13, 2024

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Get ready to explore the world of Sterno Cans, an essential kitchen item that has been lighting up grills and cookouts for decades. In this comprehensive roundup, we dive into the features and benefits of different Sterno Cans available in the market, providing you with a clear understanding of which one suits your needs best. From fuel efficiency to durability, our expert analysis covers it all, ensuring you make an informed decision when choosing your Sterno Can. So, let’s get started and discover the perfect Sterno Can for your culinary adventures!

The Top 10 Best Sterno Cans

  1. Sterno ISO-Butane Fuel Refill in Compact 8oz Size — Sterno Butane Fuel 8oz: Compact, portable, and efficient, this premium fuel delivers high performance even in cold temperatures, making it the perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable and easy-to-use cooking solution.
  2. Sterno Green Canned Heat: Clean, Portable, and Efficient Fuel for Heating — Sterno Green Canned Heat offers a convenient and eco-friendly solution for your outdoor cooking needs, with smart can labels for safety, up to 135 minutes of burn time, and compatibility with various appliances.
  3. Green Ethanol Chafing Fuel for Outdoor Cooking and Catering — Warm up your outdoor gatherings with Sterno’s eco-friendly Green Ethanol Gel Chafing Fuel, providing safe and sustainable heat while catering to both your guests and the environment.
  4. Sterno 2 Hour Green Ethanol Gel Cans — 48 Pack, Price per Case — Eco-friendly Sterno 2 Hour Green Ethanol Gel Cans ignite instantly, providing consistent high heat to keep food safe and hot at parties, gatherings, and events.
  5. Sterno Green Canned Heat: 2-Pack, 7 oz Each — Experience the clean, efficient, and reliable cooking experience with Sterno Green 2-pack of 7 oz, 200-degree heat cans — perfect for outdoor meals!
  6. Eco-Friendly Sterno 2 Hour Green Gel Chafing Fuel Can — Eco-friendly Sterno 20108 Green Gel 2 Hour Chafing Fuel Gel, ideal for short-term use and endorsed by the Green Restaurant Association.
  7. Sterno 2.6-Ounce Entertainment Cooking Fuel 3-Pack: Patented Smart Can Label for Non-Toxic, Biodegradable Heat — Experience safe and efficient cooking with Sterno’s 3-pack of non-toxic, biodegradable cooking fuel, keeping your food at perfect temperature while reducing waste.
  8. Complete Fast Casual Catering Set with Sterno Chafing Fuel Cans — Take your catering business to the next level with the Sterno 70168 Fast Casual Catering Set, featuring everything you need for off-premises service and a commitment to quality and performance since 1909.
  9. Sterno 10112 Safe Heat Chafing Fuel for Catering (2 Hour) — Keep your chafing dishes warm and safe for up to 2 hours with the Sterno 10112 72-pack chafing fuel, complete with a convenient power pad.
  10. Sterno 2-Hour Chafing Fuel for Candle Lamps | 24-Pack — The Sterno Candle Lamp Power Heat Plus 2 HR Chafing Fuel Green boasts impressive performance and efficiency, backed by a fully durable steel canister that prevents leaks and dents.

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Reviews

Sterno ISO-Butane Fuel Refill in Compact 8oz Size

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I recently tried the Sterno Butane Fuel 8oz for my outdoor cooking adventures, and I must say it’s been a game-changer. This compact and lightweight cooking fuel is so easy to use, making it perfect for my backpacking trips. It lights up like a dream and heats up my meals quickly, even in chilly conditions.

One thing that stands out is its high performance. I was able to use it with my Sterno Iso-Butane cooking appliances without any issues. The fuel lasted me quite a while, and I appreciated the fact that it was enough for multiple heatings of water. The canister’s design made it convenient for me to carry around during my trips.

However, there was one downside: I had a bit of trouble with the first canister I bought. It leaked fuel when I screwed it into my stove. But lucky for me, the issue was resolved once I switched to a different one. I gave it a 4 out of 5 rating in my review. It’s not the perfect product, but it definitely comes close.

Sterno Green Canned Heat: Clean, Portable, and Efficient Fuel for Heating

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I recently tried out the Sterno Green Canned Heat as a part of my outdoor cooking. It’s a reliable little heat source, perfect for keeping our food warm and appetizing all night long. The patented smart can label came in handy too, as it ensured we didn’t accidentally touch the can when it became too hot.

This product is really portable and nontoxic, so it suits any environment without leaving any harmful residue. I just got to keep it away from heat, sparks, and open flames. It’s quite easy to use; just have a match ready to ignite it, and it’ll burn steadily until it’s all consumed.

What I particularly liked about this canned heat is that it comes with two sizes. The smaller size, 2.6 oz, is ideal for those smaller fondue pots and chafing dishes. But for the bigger setups, the larger 7 oz size packs quite the punch and can even work with folding stoves.

However, it comes with some stern warnings, such as being flammable, potentially emitting harmful fumes, and being inaccessible to children. It goes without saying that you should always read the warnings and instructions carefully before use.

Overall, my experience with this Sterno Green Canned Heat was a positive one. It did a great job keeping our food warm and cooking up a perfect melted cheese. Though it may not be suitable for everyone due to its flammable nature, for the adventurous cooks out there, this could be a great addition to your outdoor meals.

Green Ethanol Chafing Fuel for Outdoor Cooking and Catering

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Sterno’s Green Ethanol Gel Chafing Fuel is a game-changer for outdoor gatherings, bringing the heat without harming the environment. It offers a conveniently long burn time of 2 hours, ensuring food stays safely warm. The biodegradable formula makes this fuel eco-friendly, a much-appreciated feature for the conscious consumers.

The only downside is the gel’s runny and colorless nature, making it a bit messy and challenging to spot during clean-up. Overall, it’s a great product for those who value sustainability and convenience while cooking outdoors.

Sterno 2 Hour Green Ethanol Gel Cans — 48 Pack, Price per Case

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The Sterno 2 Hour Green Ethanol Gel is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional heating methods, with a new concentrated formula that reduces its carbon footprint by 10% less steel and 7% less corrugate. Each 2-hour can is now adorned with a smart indicator that alerts users when it’s too hot to handle, ensuring safety.

This green-colored, non-toxic, odorless, and biodegradable gel is perfect for cooking and ignites instantly, providing consistent high heat to keep food at the right temperature. Ideal for use in various applications such as wire racks, party sets, and buffet chafers, this versatile product is perfect for keeping food warm at parties, graduations, and holiday celebrations.

Sterno Green Canned Heat: 2-Pack, 7 oz Each

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I recently tried out the green canned heat from Sterno, and I have to say, it made my cooking experience quite efficient and pleasurable. The product lived up to the clean burning, odorless, and smoke-free claims, making my meals hassle-free and enjoyable.

The 7 oz cans are perfect for my outdoor cookery, and the fact that it remains solid while burning was a great safety feature. I loved the smart can heat indicator that turned white when the heat was too much to handle, ensuring my safety while cooking.

However, there was one downside to my experience. I noticed that the 2-pack I received seemed to contain slightly less product than advertised — I only received 12.2 oz instead of the 14 oz promised. This was a bit disappointing, especially considering I paid for a total of 14 oz.

Overall, I still think the green canned heat from Sterno is a great product for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Just remember to pay attention to the product quality when purchasing.

Eco-Friendly Sterno 2 Hour Green Gel Chafing Fuel Can

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Sterno’s 20108 Green Gel Chafing Fuel Gel is a top-rated option for eco-conscious consumers looking for a reliable way to keep food warm. This fuel gel is made from a biodegradable gel formula, meeting the standards of the Green Restaurant Association, making it a greener choice for businesses and homes alike. With a 2-hour burn time, this chafing fuel gel is perfect for short-term uses like room service or fondue pots.

The 72 units per pack offer convenience and bulk purchasing options, making it a popular choice among restaurant owners. While the burn time is limited, this eco-friendly gel chafing fuel offers a high-quality, heat-efficient solution for your warming needs.

Sterno 2.6-Ounce Entertainment Cooking Fuel 3-Pack: Patented Smart Can Label for Non-Toxic, Biodegradable Heat

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When I first tried this Sterno 2.6-ounce Entertainment Cooking Fuel, I had no idea how it would change the way I entertain guests. The 3-pack can value was a game-changer for me, as it ensured that I always had enough fuel for every event. Each can burns for up to 45 minutes, providing a total of 2.25 hours of cooking time. The patented smart can label is a genius feature, as it tells me exactly when the can is too hot to touch, preventing any burns.

I was also impressed by the eco-friendly properties of Sterno brand cooking fuel. It’s non-toxic, biodegradable, and water soluble, which made me feel great about using it at my gatherings. The steel can is recyclable and made from recycled metal, which is a big plus for those of us who care about the environment. The product is compact at just 2.63 x 2.63 x 7.5 inches in size, making it perfect for storing in tight spaces.

However, there were a few drawbacks to this product. One of the downsides is that it might not be the most cost-effective option for casual users. Additionally, while I appreciate the smart can label, it can be a bit tricky to read at times, especially in low lighting conditions.

Overall, the Sterno 2.6-ounce Entertainment Cooking Fuel is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to level up their entertaining game. Its eco-friendly features, smart can label, and long-lasting burn time make it a standout option. Just be prepared for the higher price point and slightly challenging label visibility.

Complete Fast Casual Catering Set with Sterno Chafing Fuel Cans

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Introducing the Sterno 70168 Fast Casual Catering Set, your go-to solution for effortless off-premises catering. This comprehensive set includes all the essentials for serving the same high-quality food wherever your event takes place. With Sterno’s long-standing reputation for quality and performance, you can trust this set to deliver flawless results every time.

The Fast Casual Catering Set comes with nine complete sets, packed with useful components like chafing dish wire racks, aluminum water pans, half-size aluminum food pans, and lids. It even includes serving sporks and tongs to make mealtime a breeze. Just remember, Sterno chafing fuel cans are sold separately.

For over 100 years, Sterno has been the trusted brand for home entertaining, camping, and emergency preparedness. Their commitment to excellence ensures your catering experience is always top-notch. So, kick-start your catering business with the Sterno 70168 Fast Casual Catering Set, and let the delicious feasts continue off-premises.

Sterno 10112 Safe Heat Chafing Fuel for Catering (2 Hour)

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Get ready to enjoy delicious meals with ease thanks to Sterno Products 10112, a 2-hour safe heat chafing fuel that comes with a convenient power pad. This high-performing fuel is perfect for keeping your dishes warm without any worry of overheating or wasting energy.

The wick-based fuel ensures that your food remains tasty and perfectly cooked, while its consistent burn time allows for hassle-free entertaining. However, be mindful of the fuel’s depth, as it can change the appearance of the dish it’s underneath.

Overall, Sterno Products 10112 is a reliable and efficient way to keep your dishes warm and appetizing.

Sterno 2-Hour Chafing Fuel for Candle Lamps | 24-Pack

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I recently gave a dinner party and needed a reliable heat source for our chafing dishes. That’s when I decided to give the Power Heat Plus Sterno Candle Lamp a try. These 24-pack cans were perfect for our event, providing maximum gel heat without any hassle. The full steel canister not only looked great but also resisted dents and leaks.

However, one downside was that the fuel didn’t last as long as I hoped it would. Nonetheless, it was efficient in its use, making it a good investment for future events. The green shade of the chafing fuel cans added a touch of class to our decorations. I would definitely recommend the Power Heat Plus Sterno Candle Lamp for anyone in need of efficient and reliable heat for their chafing dishes.

Buyer’s Guide

Sterno cans are a popular choice for outdoor cooking and provide a convenient way to keep food warm for extended periods. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or hosting a backyard barbecue, these cans are essential for ensuring your dishes stay hot throughout your event. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll discuss the key features, considerations, and general advice when selecting a Sterno can to suit your needs.

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Types of Sterno Cans

There are various types of Sterno cans available on the market, including:

  1. Disposable cans, which are made of aluminum and have a built-in lid, and 2) Refillable cans, usually made of stainless steel, which can be used multiple times after filling with fuel. Disposable cans are more convenient for one-time use and can easily be disposed of after use, while refillable cans reduce waste and are more cost-effective over time.

Fuel Capacity and Burn Time

One of the primary factors to consider when choosing a Sterno can is its fuel capacity and burn time. Typically, Sterno cans hold between 15 and 30 ounces of fuel and can burn for 1 to 3 hours, depending on the heat settings. Consider the number of items you plan to warm and the duration of your event to determine the appropriate fuel capacity and burn time for your needs.

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Size and Weight

Sterno cans come in various sizes and weights, making them suitable for different types of events and settings. Smaller, lighter cans are more portable and convenient for carrying, while larger cans can accommodate more fuel and provide longer burn times. Consider where and how you will be using the Sterno can and choose one that is both practical and comfortable to transport.

Safety Features

Safety is a crucial factor when using Sterno cans, especially when outdoors or in a crowded setting. Look for cans that have built-in safety features, such as stable bases, locking lids, and heat-resistant handles. To minimize the risk of accidents, always keep your Sterno can away from flammable materials, and never leave it unattended or overheated.

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FAQ

What are Sterno Cans?

Sterno Cans, also known as Sterno fuel cans, are a type of fuel used commonly for heating food, water, and other materials without igniting a flame. They come in various sizes and are designed for easy handling and use, making them popular for outdoor cooking and camping trips. They provide a convenient source of heat for a range of appliances and utensils.

Sterno Cans contain a fuel that is liquid at room temperature but turns solid when ignited. It burns at a low, steady temperature, ideal for slowly cooking or warming food over an extended period. The primary advantage of Sterno Cans is that they do not produce open flames, making them safer than traditional heat sources for certain activities.

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How long does a Sterno Can last?

The lifespan of a Sterno Can depends on various factors such as the size of the can, the heating temperature, and the environmental conditions. Typically, Sterno Cans have a burn time of approximately six to eight hours when used at lower temperatures for warming purposes. When used at higher temperatures for cooking, they can last between 3–5 hours.

To optimize the lifespan of a Sterno Can, it’s essential to avoid overheating the fuel, as excessive heat can cause the material to break down and weaken the durability of the can. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal performance and lifespan of the Sterno Can. Additionally, it’s essential to dispose of used, leftover fuel safely and responsibly according to local guidelines.

Are Sterno Cans safe to use?

When used as instructed, Sterno Cans are generally considered safe for a range of applications. Since they don’t produce open flames, they reduce the risk of unintentional fires compared to other heat sources. Sterno Cans emit a low amount of fumes and meet the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) requirements for clean burning fuels.

However, as with any fuel source, it’s essential to practice safety when using Sterno Cans. Always use them in well-ventilated areas and ensure that they don’t come into contact with water or other moisture to avoid causing damage. Additionally, avoid overheating the fuel by lowering the heat settings and making sure you don’t exceed the burn time recommended by the manufacturer. Proper use and precautions can ensure a safe and effective experience with Sterno Cans.

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What sizes of Sterno Cans are available?

Sterno Cans come in various sizes, ranging from smaller, portable options to larger cans for more extensive heating requirements. The most common sizes include the 1-pound can, a popular choice for camping and smaller outdoor settings, and the 2-pound can, best suited for larger gatherings or extended heating times.

Another option is the patio heaters, which typically use 16-pound and 20-pound cans. These are ideal for outdoor dining settings or larger cooking environments. The fuel size you choose should be based on the heating requirements and expected duration of use for your specific application. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and safety guidelines when using Sterno Cans for optimal performance and safety.

What can Sterno Cans be used for?

Sterno Cans can be used for a variety of heating applications, including cooking and warming food, beverages, and other items. They are a popular choice for outdoor activities such as camping, picnics, and barbecues, where open flames may pose a risk. Sterno Cans can also be used to heat water for tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

Additionally, they are suitable for heating sauces, soups, or stews, making them a convenient choice for caterers or event organizers requiring a controlled and safe heat source. Some smaller cans can even be used for melting chocolate or candles for crafting projects. The versatility of Sterno Cans makes them a handy tool for various indoor and outdoor projects, allowing you to cook, heat, or warm items safely and efficiently.

How do Sterno Cans work?

Sterno Cans, also known as Sterno fuel cans, contain a unique fuel formulated to burn at a low, continuous temperature without creating a visible flame. They are designed to emit heat slowly, consistently sustaining the temperature at which materials are set to warm up or achieve a desired consistency.

When Sterno fuel is ignited, it melts into a liquid state causing it to evaporate as it comes into contact with the air. This evaporation releases energy in the form of heat which can be used to warm up food, beverages, water, or other materials. The Sterno Cans have a venting system that allows the pressure produced during the evaporation process to escape, maintaining a consistent temperature without risk of explosion.

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