If you’re bottling honey—whether it’s your first harvest or your 50th—picking the right container can feel like a small detail. But ask any seasoned beekeeper, and they’ll tell you: it matters a lot more than you’d think.
It affects how your honey sells, how it stores, how it ships, and even how your customers experience it. For those handling large harvests or commercial sales, bulk containers are often used for efficient transport and storage of honey.
At Foxhound Bee Company, we’ve handled just about every container you can think of—from pint mason jars to clear plastic mini honey bears.
And if you’re trying to decide between plastic honey jars or glass honey containers, this guide will walk you through the real pros, cons, and practical tips to help you decide.
Plastic vs. Glass Containers – Plastic honey bottles are lightweight, durable, affordable, and ideal for shipping or farmers markets, while glass jars give a premium look, preserve honey longer, and are more eco-friendly but heavier and breakable.
Choosing the Right Jar – The best container depends on your selling style (markets, gifts, retail, bulk, shipping). Smaller jars often bring higher margins, and standardizing lids/jars simplifies labeling and storage.
Practical Tips – Glass is best for long-term storage and premium sales, plastic works well for everyday use and shipping, and a labeling strategy plus bulk ordering can save time, money, and hassle.
Table of Contents
Why Choosing the Right Honey Container Matters Plastic Honey Jars: Lightweight, Durable, and Simple Why Beekeepers Like Plastic Where Plastic Falls Short Glass Honey Containers: Classic, Premium, and Reusable Why Glass Still Wins Hearts Where Glass Can Be a Headache Honey Bear Bottles: Still a Crowd Favorite Labeling Your Jars Understanding Sizing: Weight vs. Volume Confusion What Are You Using the Honey For? (Jar Size by Use Case) Smaller Jars Can Mean Bigger Margins Pick a Jar, Stick with It, and Save Time (and Money) Bulk Orders and Storage Realities Environmental Considerations: Glass vs. Plastic Frequently Asked Questions What is the best container to keep honey in? Does honey last longer in glass or plastic? Is honey OK in a plastic container? Is glass or ceramic better for honey? Which bottle is best for honey? What is the best container to store honey in? What is the best way to bottle honey? Is honey safe in plastic bottles? Is it okay to store honey in plastic bottles? How do you decrystallize honey in a plastic bottle? What is the best container for raw honey? Is it okay to put honey in a plastic container? How long does honey stay good in a plastic container? How to decrystallize honey that's in a plastic container?
Why Choosing the Right Honey Container Matters
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to honey containers. The best choice depends on how you sell, how much you produce, and how your customers use your honey. And your needs may change.
Are you mailing out jars every week? Selling at a farmers market? Delivering to gift shops or restaurants? Just storing bulk for family and friends? Are you trying to brand your honey, or just slap one of those free letter return address stamps on it? The bottle shape and style make a big difference.
Each of those use-cases makes certain jars better than others. Your container is part of your product—and should carefully choose the container that best fits their selling and storage needs.
Plastic Honey Jars: Lightweight, Durable, and Simple
Why Beekeepers Like Plastic
Plastic honey bottles are about as convenient as it gets. They’re affordable in bulk, lightweight (which makes a huge difference for shipping), unbreakable, and easy to use—especially when paired with a 38mm flip top lid. The lids are easy to use, customers know what to expect and the bear is classic.
A good 1 lb plastic honey bottle is easy to label, drop-proof, and ideal for quick pouring. If you’re selling at markets or shipping across the country, that matters. But there is the whole environmental side.
We use the standard 38mm flip top lid on most of our plastic jars—it snaps tight, doesn’t leak, and makes dispensing honey clean and easy.
And since that size fits tons of bottles, it simplifies inventory too. Our plastic lids also come with a security or safety seal which is often required by my stores and expected by customers.
Plastic honey bottles often feature customizable lids, including a variety of spout and cap options, allowing for greater flexibility in design and functionality.
Where Plastic Falls Short
Plastic has its drawbacks. As cute as a honey bear is, they aren't perfect.
Not everyone recycles it. Even though plastic honey bottles are recyclable (usually PET or LDPE), the stats aren't great. According to the EPA, only around 30% of plastic containers are actually recycled in the U.S. And there are plenty of reports about recycling companies receiving plastics as a part of their contract, but not exactly recycling them.
There’s also growing awareness about microplastics. While PET plastic is food-safe and doesn’t leach under normal conditions, some customers just don’t want their honey in plastic—especially if you're marketing it as raw, natural, or organic. We actually prefer using glass to eliminate this issue plus it looks sharp.
And finally, plastic doesn’t have the same wow factor as glass. It’s practical, not premium. Another thing worth mentioning is about after filling the jars, you don't have a box to put the plastic jars in. They come in a big bulk box as opposed to glass. With glass, you can fill it up and put it right back in the box for storage or transport.
Plastic containers also have a shape to them. Meaning that glass jars are often round, so you have a larger surface to put the label on it. You have more flexibility with label options with a glass jar than with plastic honey bottles. With plastic, the label needs to go in a specific place on the jar (usually).
Glass Honey Containers: Classic, Premium, and Reusable
Why Glass Still Wins Hearts
Glass honey jars feel elevated. If your goal is to impress—or to stand out in a crowded product lineup—glass is still the go-to.
It looks beautiful, showcases your honey ’s clarity and color, and gives the impression of premium quality. It’s also infinitely recyclable and more likely to be reused at home. And even if you don't recycle them, it breaks down into sand eventually.
From hex jars to Muth bottles, glass brings a timeless feel. Glass honey jars are made from food-grade, high-quality glass to ensure freshness and safety. Plastic honey bottles and glass both come in a very wide variety of shapes. Just go to the grocery store and look at all the packaging.
Glass also opens up more branding options. You can emboss the jar, add wraparound labels (which is what we do), or include wax seals for a rustic, small-batch look.
And the glass jars also come in a box you can put the filled honey jars back into.
Where Glass Can Be a Headache
Glass breaks. That’s the biggest downside.
If you’re shipping, you’ll need to invest in extra packaging—bubble wrap, dividers, and stronger boxes—to prevent breakage. And even then, things happen.
It’s also heavier. A 1 lb glass jar might weigh 14–16 oz empty. That adds up fast in your shipping costs. Shipping charges may change depending on the total weight and destination of your order.
And finally, glass jars take up more space and need to be stored with more care. You can’t just toss them on a shelf or stack them high.
Honey Bear Bottles: Still a Crowd Favorite
We can’t talk about honey packaging without giving a nod to the honey bear.
It comes in 8 oz, 12 oz, and 1 lb sizes, pairs with the same 38mm flip top lids, and it’s still one of the most recognizable packages out there.
People love it. Especially kids. And it's our top seller. Plastic honey bear containers are also available in 16 oz and 32 oz sizes, offering more options for different needs.
The clear plastic honey bear is functional, nostalgic, and just plain fun.
Labeling Your Jars
Most beekeepers start off applying labels by hand—and at first, that works fine. But as production increases, it quickly becomes one of the most tedious bottlenecks in the process.
If you’re using standard round jars, a semi-automatic label applicator can save hours of time and frustration. These machines are relatively affordable (often under $200–$400) and can apply a label in seconds with perfect alignment every time.
Jars with flat sides or unique shapes (like Muth bottles or ovals) are trickier. They typically require hand labeling unless you invest in a commercial labeling machine—which can run several thousand dollars. For many, it’s not worth the cost unless you're scaling up significantly.
If labeling feels like a chore now, don’t worry—it’s normal. Just know that upgrading to a small tabletop labeler can be a game-changer in both speed and professionalism.
But if you know you are going to expand, you might consider which jars can be labeled easy.
Understanding Sizing: Weight vs. Volume Confusion
Honey is almost always sold by weight (pounds or ounces), but many jars—especially glass ones—are sold by volume (fluid ounces like 8 oz, 16 oz, etc.).
This matters for labeling and pricing. If your glass jar says “16 oz” but only holds 1.1 lb of honey, don’t list it as a 1 lb jar unless you’re weighing the honey directly.
You can avoid this confusion by buying containers specifically designed for honey. They’re pre-calibrated and sold by weight, not volume.
We have a separate blog that talks all about the weight of honey.
What Are You Using the Honey For? (Jar Size by Use Case)
If you’re not sure which size jar to pick, start with this question: “What am I using the honey for?” Your answer will help guide your size choice. There is a wide selection of plastic honey containers available to match every use case, from gifting to bulk sales. Here’s a quick breakdown based on how most beekeepers use their honey:
Use Case |
Recommended Jar Sizes |
Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
Gifting & Favors |
2 oz, 4 oz, 8 oz |
Stretch your honey, make more people smile |
Farmers Market Sales |
8 oz, 12 oz, 1 lb |
Ideal price points for casual customers |
Repeat Customers / Refillers |
1 lb, 2 lb, quart, 5lb |
Loyal buyers want more honey, less packaging |
Coffee Shops / Restaurants |
1 lb squeeze bottles |
Easy to use, refill, and clean |
Retail Shelves |
12 oz or 16 oz plastic or glass |
Great shelf presence and value perception |
Sampler Packs / Flight Boxes |
2 oz jars in sets |
Let customers try multiple varieties |
This kind of planning helps avoid overbuying the wrong size and gives your honey the best chance to impress in the right format.
Smaller Jars Can Mean Bigger Margins
You don't have to start with big jars to make a big impact. In fact, smaller jars often help you earn more per ounce and share your honey with more people. Here's how it breaks down:
Jar Size |
Typical Retail Price |
Per Ounce Price |
|---|---|---|
1 lb |
$14.00 |
$0.87 |
8 oz |
$8.00 |
$1.00 |
2 oz |
$4.00 |
$2.0 |
Not only does this increase your margin, but it makes your honey more accessible to casual buyers or gift shoppers. It's easier for someone to spend $3 or $8 than it is $12 or $18.
And when you're just getting started, smaller jars make your honey go farther. You'll be able to hand out samples, give thank-you gifts, or stock more booths without needing to bottle up every last drop of your harvest.
Pick a Jar, Stick with It, and Save Time (and Money)
One of the smartest moves you can make early on is to pick a small set of jars—and commit to them.
Choosing one or two bottle styles simplifies your entire operation:
Bulk pricing becomes easier
Lid ordering becomes simpler (especially if you standardize around 38mm lids)
Labeling becomes more efficient
The goal is to use one label across multiple jars. For example, if your 8 oz and 12 oz squeeze bottles have the same label panel size, you can print a single label in bulk and apply it across both.
You’ll also save on shelf space, avoid mix-ups, and streamline your workflow when packing or reordering. Placing a single order for standardized containers and lids can further simplify your supply process. It might feel limiting at first, but long-term it’s a big win.
And when it comes to the different label that says 8oz or 12 oz, you can handwrite that on the label or have a separate small sticker that you attach to the size jar you are using. This is what we did early on.
Bulk Orders and Storage Realities
If you’re ordering containers by the case—or pallet—you’ll run into the real bottleneck: storage.
Both plastic and glass get cheaper when ordered in quantity. You can find 1 lb plastic squeeze bottles for $0.30–$0.40 each at volume. Glass jars may run $0.50–$0.70 depending on style and lid.
Plastic bottles are designed to ship safely and efficiently, making them ideal for bulk orders. And they often come in a large box with the bottles in a big bag. This helps keep them clean. Keep that in mind when you’re planning storage, labeling, and packaging. Plastic jars can be stacked high on the shelf or on the ground, whereas glass jars should be placed on the ground if you have a large quantity.
PRO TIP : keep boxes sealed and stacked until needed to prevent dust, damage, and clutter.
Environmental Considerations: Glass vs. Plastic
Glass wins the sustainability battle. It’s easier to recycle, more likely to be reused, and generally seen as more environmentally friendly.
Plastic does have a smaller shipping footprint—because it’s lighter, it requires less fuel to transport. But most plastic still ends up in landfills. If your brand messaging includes words like “eco-conscious” or “natural,” you’ll want to think about how your packaging supports that.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best container to keep honey in?
Glass is best for long-term storage. It’s airtight, doesn’t leach, and preserves flavor and quality. Plastic works well for short-term use or for shipping.
Does honey last longer in glass or plastic?
Yes—glass extends the shelf life better. It’s non-porous and doesn't absorb odors or allow slow air exchange like some plastics can.
Is honey OK in a plastic container?
Yes. Most honey bottles are made from food-grade plastic like PET (#1) or LDPE (#4), which are safe for honey. Just keep them out of heat.
Is glass or ceramic better for honey?
Glass is better. It’s airtight, clear, and easy to label. Ceramic looks nice but isn’t always sealed well, and you can’t see how much honey is left.
Which bottle is best for honey?
For daily use: 1 lb plastic squeeze bottles.
For premium or gift sales: 8 oz or 12 oz glass jars.
It depends on your market and how you’re selling.
What is the best container to store honey in?
Use food-grade buckets stamped with “HDPE” (#2 plastic) for bulk storage. For smaller quantities or retail, use glass jars.
What is the best way to bottle honey?
Use a bottling tank or pail with a gate. Fill dry, sanitized jars, cap them tightly, and label right away.
Is honey safe in plastic bottles?
Yes—if it’s food-grade plastic and stored properly. Avoid heating or reusing old containers that could leach or absorb odors.
Is it okay to store honey in plastic bottles?
Yes. Just make sure they’re clean, food-grade, and kept in a cool, dark place. For storage over many years, glass is a better choice.
How do you decrystallize honey in a plastic bottle?
Place the sealed bottle in warm water (100–110°F) and let it liquefy slowly. Don’t microwave—it can melt or warp the plastic.
What is the best container for raw honey?
Glass jars. They keep raw honey pure, protect flavor, and appeal to customers who want natural, high-quality packaging.
Is it okay to put honey in a plastic container?
Yes, as long as it’s food-grade. PET and HDPE plastics are commonly used and safe. Just avoid long exposure to heat or sunlight.
How long does honey stay good in a plastic container?
If sealed and stored correctly, honey can last for years—even in plastic. But for the longest shelf life and best quality, glass is preferred.
How to decrystallize honey that's in a plastic container?
Use a bowl of warm water to gently heat the container. Plastic distorts if overheated, so go slow—or better yet, transfer it to a glass jar first.
Adam Hickman owns Foxhound Bee Company and is a certified EAS Master Beekeeper. Before ever selling a box through Foxhound Bee Company, Adam wrote beekeeping blogs for education. Adam regularly teaches beekeeping classes through Foxhound Bee Co and also through his local beekeeping club.