The Growing Popularity of Beer Growlers

By: Paula Polei

Brewpubs, breweries, and grocery stores across the U.S. are cashing in on the growing popularity of growlers — refillable glass jugs that let beer lovers take their favorite craft brews home fresh from the tap. The term dates back to the 19th century, when fresh beer was carried from the local pub to one’s home in small galvanized pails. According to BeerAdvocate, the word “growler” originated from the growling sound CO₂ made as it escaped from the lid while beer sloshed around inside.

Today, the standard growler volume is a half-gallon — better known to beer enthusiasts as 64 ounces of pure craft beer freshness. When poured into amber-colored glass, the beer is preserved in a non-porous, light-blocking container that helps maintain its flavor and integrity.

Fill ’Er Up

Anyone who’s filled a growler knows that the right technique matters. Growler containers must safely withstand the pressure of carbonated beer. According to the Brewers Association, a filled growler left in a warm car (90°F) could reach internal pressures as high as 52 psi — making proper filling and handling essential.

Tips for Filling Growlers Safely

• Use only growlers specifically designed for carbonated beer. Always verify that your container’s pressure rating meets or exceeds the beer’s carbonation level. BOB’s growler is pressure rated for safety.
• If filling by counter pressure, know your system’s pressure rating and ensure there’s a shield between the growler and the operator in case of breakage.
• Never overfill. Leave approximately six percent headspace — and look for a fill line indicator on the growler for accuracy.
• Store filled growlers cold and away from sunlight.
• Never freeze a filled growler.

What’s Next for the Growler?

While growler refills are legal at breweries and brewpubs, many state legislators are pushing to allow grocery and convenience stores to offer the same service. According to the Brewers Association, roughly 35 states currently permit retailers to sell refillable growlers.

One of the first to embrace this was Sunoco, which opened its first “Craft Beer Exchange” in Buffalo, NY, in 2011. Today, Sunoco fills growlers in more than 60 convenience stores across New York and South Carolina.

Some brewers see this trend as a great way to attract new customers — giving casual shoppers a taste of local craft beer and inspiring them to visit nearby breweries. Others remain skeptical, citing concerns about quality control if retailers use unclean lines or improperly washed growlers, which could lead to contaminated beer and damage a brewery’s reputation.

What do you think? Are you open to seeing your beer on tap in gas stations and retail stores, or should growlers stay brewery-exclusive?

Cheers!