5 gal. Hedpak #2 HDPE containers

[emr454]

I came across a couple 5 gal Hedpak #2 HDPE containers at a garage sale last year. They originally held root beer soda flavoring or extract. Has anyone used these for fermenting? I do mostly apfelwein and hard cider, so not worries about hot wort or anything. It would be nice to be able to use these because I only have 1 6 gal better bottle and I have so many ideas, and so little fermenting space haha! Any input is appreciated. Thanks!

Eric

Here is a pic:

 

[dap325]

#2 Plastic is ok for fermenting, but I'd be more worried about the soda flavor never coming out of that plastic. Everything you put in there may come out with a hint of root beer.

 

[AiredAle]

Other than the soda flavor issue dap325 pointed out, there's no reason not to use them for primary fermentation. I would not use them for an extended primary or secondary because of oxygen permeation through the plastic over long times.

 

[emr454]

Thanks guys!

I'm not worried about any flavor transfer because from what I can tell, these jugs are from the 80's and they have no smell to them right now. I haven't washed them yet but will do so before putting anything into them.

How long do you think something like hard cider could be left inside without deleterious effects?

Eric