Understanding Growlers: What They Are and How Many Ounces They Hold

Growlers have become synonymous with craft beer culture, offering beer enthusiasts a way to transport draft beer from breweries and taprooms to enjoy at home. But what exactly is a growler, and how many ounces does it hold? This comprehensive guide explores growler sizes, materials, storage recommendations, and safety considerations to enhance your craft beer experience.

What is a Growler: Origins and Purpose

A growler is a container designed specifically for transporting draft beer from breweries, taprooms, or beer stores for off-site consumption. The term "growler" dates back to the late 1800s when fresh beer was carried home in metal pails. The story goes that the name originated from the sound of carbon dioxide escaping from the lid as the beer sloshed around during transport, creating a growling noise.

Today, a growler of beer serves as both a practical vessel and a cultural symbol within the craft beer community. It allows consumers to enjoy brewery-fresh beer that might not be available in cans or bottles, supporting local breweries while reducing packaging waste.

Growler Sizes: How Many Ounces in Different Growlers

When asking "how many ounces is a growler," it's important to note that growlers come in several standardized sizes:

Standard Growler

The standard growler holds 64 ounces (half-gallon) of beer, equivalent to roughly four pints. This size has become the industry standard and is what most people refer to when discussing growlers.

Howler (Half Growler)

A howler, sometimes called a half growler, contains 32 ounces (one quart) of beer. This smaller option provides greater flexibility for consumers who want to try different beers without committing to a full growler.

Magnum (Double Growler)

Less common but available at some breweries, the magnum or double growler holds 128 ounces (one gallon) of beer.

International Variations

In countries using the metric system, growlers may be sized slightly differently. For example, European growlers might be 2 liters (approximately 67.6 ounces), while Australian growlers are often 1.9 liters (approximately 64.2 ounces).

Understanding beer bottle sizes and measurements can help put growler volumes in perspective compared to other beer packaging formats.

Growler Materials and Designs

Growlers are manufactured using various materials, each offering different benefits:

Glass Growlers

The most traditional option, glass growlers are typically amber or dark-colored to protect beer from light exposure. They're affordable but susceptible to breakage and offer limited insulation.

Stainless Steel Growlers

These durable containers often feature double-wall vacuum insulation, keeping beer cold for extended periods. They're unbreakable, lightweight, and won't impart flavors to the beer, though they're more expensive than glass alternatives.

Ceramic Growlers

Ceramic options provide excellent light protection and aesthetic appeal but are heavier and more fragile than stainless steel versions.

Plastic Growlers

Lightweight and shatterproof, plastic growlers are convenient for outdoor activities but may affect beer flavor over time and typically have shorter lifespans.

Beer Freshness and Storage in Growlers

How long beer stays fresh in a growler depends on several factors, including the filling method, beer style, and storage conditions. As detailed in this freshness guide, properly filled and sealed growlers can maintain quality for different periods:

• Unopened growlers: 1-2 weeks when refrigerated (if filled using a counter-pressure system)
• Standard fills: 2-4 days refrigerated
• Opened growlers: Best consumed within 24-36 hours

To maximize freshness, store growlers upright in the refrigerator, avoid exposure to light, and minimize headspace during filling. Once opened, consume the contents as quickly as possible, as beer will rapidly lose carbonation.

Safety Considerations for Growlers

While growlers are generally safe containers, certain considerations should be kept in mind:

Pressure Build-up

Beer continues to ferment slightly, potentially building pressure inside sealed growlers. This is rarely dangerous with properly filled commercial growlers but can occasionally lead to leaking or cap popping.

Child Safety

Unlike some regulated beverage containers, standard growlers don't typically feature child-resistant mechanisms. According to safety packaging guidelines, containers should be designed to prevent children under five from accessing harmful contents while remaining accessible to adults. While alcohol containers don't fall under the same regulations as medicines, keeping growlers out of children's reach is advisable.

Cleaning and Sanitation

Proper cleaning is essential to prevent bacterial growth and off-flavors. Rinse growlers immediately after use, wash thoroughly with bottle brushes and unscented detergent, and allow to dry completely before resealing.

Similar to liquor measurement standards, growler sizes are generally consistent across the industry, making it easier for consumers to know what they're getting regardless of where they purchase.

The Future of Growlers in Craft Beer Culture

Despite the rise of canned craft beer, growlers maintain their relevance in beer culture. Innovations like improved sealing systems, digital freshness trackers, and more advanced insulation technologies continue to enhance the growler experience.

The growing emphasis on sustainability also supports growler use, as these reusable containers reduce single-use packaging waste. Many breweries now offer incentives for growler refills, encouraging environmentally conscious consumption while maintaining the tradition and experience of fresh draft beer.

Understanding growler sizes and proper usage enhances the craft beer experience, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy brewery-fresh beer at home while participating in a longstanding beer tradition. Whether you're new to the world of craft beer or a seasoned aficionado, knowing how many ounces are in a growler and how to maintain beer quality will ensure the best possible drinking experience.