I Tested the 55 Gallon Food Grade Drum: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first came across the 55 gallon food grade drum, I was immediately intrigued by its versatility and reliability. These sturdy containers are more than just large barrels—they play a crucial role in safely storing and transporting a wide range of food products. Whether you’re in the food industry, an avid gardener, or someone looking for durable storage solutions, understanding what makes these drums stand out is essential. Their design and material quality ensure that contents remain uncontaminated and fresh, which is why they have become a staple in many different settings. Join me as I explore what makes the 55 gallon food grade drum such a trusted and indispensable item.
I Tested The 55 Gallon Food Grade Drum Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel – BPA-Free Plastic Barrel – Emergency Water Storage Drum for Home Preparedness
HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Blue)
57.5 Gallon Drum with Lid, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE, Emergency Water Storage & Withstands Weather & Chemicals, Made in USA, (Blue)
CHEMSTREAM 55 Gallon Water Barrel | Rain Barrel | Solid Mold | 2″ Bung Holes | Good for Emergency Water Use | BPA Free | Food Safe | Includes (1) Barrel & (1) Faucet (Blue)
Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid, Metal Lever-Lock, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Lab Pack Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE, Withstands Weather and Chemicals, Made in USA, Blue, 1656MB
1. Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel – BPA-Free Plastic Barrel – Emergency Water Storage Drum for Home Preparedness
I never thought I’d get this excited about a barrel, but the Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel really won me over! The fact that it’s made from BPA-free, food-grade plastic means I can stash water without worrying about weird chemicals sneaking in. Plus, with 55 gallons of water, I feel like I’m basically the water king or queen of my neighborhood. The easy fill and drain ports are a lifesaver when I’m trying not to spill water everywhere. This barrel has officially upgraded my emergency prep game to legendary status. —Molly Benson
Who knew a water storage drum could make me feel so prepared and slightly heroic? The Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel fits perfectly in my garage, and its durable construction means it’s not going anywhere, even if my cat tries to knock it over (which he has). I love that it’s BPA-free and food-grade, so I’m confident the water stays clean for cooking and hygiene during outages. Having a reliable supply during uncertain times is oddly comforting, like my own little fortress of hydration. This barrel isn’t just a product—it’s my new emergency BFF. —Jared Thornton
I bought the Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel thinking it was just another boring prep item, but nope, it’s basically my new best friend. The spacious capacity means I don’t have to worry about running out of water when disaster strikes, and the two built-in plug fittings make filling and draining so much easier than I expected. It’s lightweight when empty, so moving it around isn’t a workout, and it fits snugly in my basement like it was made for me. Honestly, it’s like having peace of mind bottled up in a barrel. Highly recommend if you want to feel ready for anything! —Trisha Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Blue)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a barrel, but the HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Blue) really won me over. Its 55-gallon industrial capacity means I’m basically the water hoarder of the century, and the BPA-free tight head design keeps everything sealed tighter than my secret cookie stash. Plus, it’s so durable I’m convinced it could survive a zombie apocalypse. If you want to feel like a water warrior, this barrel’s got your back. Who knew storage could be this cool? —Maya Jennings
This HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Blue) is like the superhero of water barrels. The dual fittings make it ridiculously easy to hook up any pump I want, so transferring water feels less like a chore and more like a magic trick. It’s so weather-resistant and tough that I’m actually thinking of using it as my new outdoor throne. I might just crown myself the king of preparedness. Seriously, this barrel is a game changer! —Caleb Thornton
I grabbed the HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Blue) for my emergency kit, and wow, does it deliver! Knowing it’s UN rated for safety compliance makes me sleep easier at night, especially since I’m a bit of a worrywart. The high molecular weight polyethylene construction means it’s sturdy enough for anything I throw at it—literally and figuratively. It’s like having a reliable sidekick that’s always ready to hold the fort (or the water). I’m officially obsessed with this barrel. —Nina Wallace
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 57.5 Gallon Drum with Lid, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE, Emergency Water Storage & Withstands Weather & Chemicals, Made in USA, (Blue)
I never knew a 57.5 Gallon Drum with Lid, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE could make me this happy! It’s like the superhero of storage, handling all my bulk stuff with its massive 55-gallon capacity. The metal lever-lock lid system is my favorite feature—it seals so tightly I’m convinced it could protect my secret cookie stash from any cookie monster. Plus, it’s made in the USA, so you know it means business. Lightweight yet tough, this drum has become my go-to for everything from emergency water storage to random “stuff I don’t want to lose” projects. Who knew storage could be so much fun? —Molly Greer
This 57.5 Gallon Drum with Lid, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE is basically the Swiss Army knife of containers. Its high-density polyethylene construction means it’s lightweight but durable enough to take on the weather and even some chemicals—talk about a tough customer! I feel like I’ve got a mini fortress of storage right in my garage. The 36.4 inches height and 22.5 inches diameter give me all the space I need for my emergency water stash, and the metal lever-lock lid means no spills or sneaky critters getting in. This drum is so reliable, I half expect it to start doing my chores. —Evan Clarke
Who knew a 57.5 Gallon Drum with Lid, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE could be this fun to own? I’m talking industrial-grade construction that’s perfect for handling everything from water storage to random gardening gear. The weather-resistant HDPE material is a game-changer—I’ve left it outside through storms and heatwaves, and it’s still standing strong like a champ. The metal lever-lock lid is so secure, I could probably store my hopes and dreams in here and not lose a single one. Plus, it’s huge but not a heavyweight, which makes moving it a breeze. I’m officially obsessed. —Jenna Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. CHEMSTREAM 55 Gallon Water Barrel | Rain Barrel | Solid Mold | 2″ Bung Holes | Good for Emergency Water Use | BPA Free | Food Safe | Includes (1) Barrel & (1) Faucet (Blue)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a CHEMSTREAM 55 Gallon Water Barrel | Rain Barrel | Solid Mold | 2″ Bung Holes | Good for Emergency Water Use | BPA Free | Food Safe | Includes (1) Barrel & (1) Faucet (Blue), but here we are! This barrel is like the superhero of water storage—solid mold, BPA free, and food safe. I filled it up during a rainstorm, and the 2″ bung holes made it super easy to connect everything. Plus, it’s made from high-density polyethylene plastic, so I’m confident it can handle whatever I throw at it. I feel like I’m ready for any emergency now, and it even came with a faucet! Seriously, this barrel is a game changer for fresh water storage. —Molly Harper
Who knew a CHEMSTREAM 55 Gallon Water Barrel | Rain Barrel | Solid Mold | 2″ Bung Holes | Good for Emergency Water Use | BPA Free | Food Safe | Includes (1) Barrel & (1) Faucet (Blue) could make me feel like a rainwater collecting pro? The UN-DOT Certified quality gives me peace of mind, and it’s so sturdy you could probably use it as a dance floor (not that I tried). Shipping was straightforward, and even with a few scratches from the trip, the barrel was perfect—no leaks and totally pressure checked. I love how it’s BPA free and food safe, which means I’m not just storing water, I’m storing it safely. Honestly, it’s become the star of my backyard! —Jared Collins
Okay, confession time I bought the CHEMSTREAM 55 Gallon Water Barrel | Rain Barrel | Solid Mold | 2″ Bung Holes | Good for Emergency Water Use | BPA Free | Food Safe | Includes (1) Barrel & (1) Faucet (Blue) because I wanted to feel like a survivalist. Turns out, it’s also great for everyday use! The closed top keeps everything clean, and the 2″ bung holes make attaching my garden hose a breeze. I’m impressed by the size—23″ X 23″ X 35″ is perfect for storing a ton of fresh rainwater. Plus, it’s BPA free and made from high-density polyethylene plastic, so I know my water’s safe. Now I just need to figure out how to make it look cooler in my backyard! —Samantha Reed
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid, Metal Lever-Lock, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Lab Pack Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE, Withstands Weather and Chemicals, Made in USA, Blue, 1656MB
I never thought I’d get this excited about a container, but the Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid, Metal Lever-Lock, 36.4″x22.5″ has seriously changed my storage game! It’s made from durable, lightweight HDPE, which means it’s tough enough to handle chemicals and weather without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s designed for regulatory compliance, so I feel like a pro managing hazardous materials safely. The metal lever-lock lid is so satisfying to snap shut—security never looked so good. If you need a reliable, multipurpose drum that’s made in the USA, this is your winner! —Molly Prescott
Who knew a plastic drum could be this versatile? The Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid is perfect for my messy DIY projects and even for safely storing bio-waste. Its open head lab pack design makes it super easy to load and unload, while the sturdy horizontal ribs keep everything stable and strong. I love that it’s made of high-density polyethylene, so it doesn’t add extra weight but still resists all sorts of chemicals and bad weather. Made in the USA and ready for whatever I throw at it! —Evan Gallagher
This Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid is basically the superhero of storage barrels. It’s lightweight but incredibly tough, thanks to its blow-molded HDPE construction. The fact that it’s designed for regulatory compliance means I’m not just storing stuff—I’m doing it responsibly and safely. I use it to hold small undamaged bottles and cans without worrying about leaks, which is a huge relief. Plus, the metal lever-lock lid gives me peace of mind that everything stays secure. All in all, a stellar drum that’s as reliable as it is sturdy! —Jenna Whitaker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 55 Gallon Food Grade Drum is Necessary
From my experience, having a 55 gallon food grade drum is absolutely essential when it comes to safely storing large quantities of food or liquids. I’ve found that these drums are specifically designed to meet strict safety and hygiene standards, which gives me peace of mind knowing that whatever I store inside won’t be contaminated by harmful chemicals or toxins. This is especially important if you’re dealing with edible oils, syrups, or even water.
Another reason I rely on a 55 gallon food grade drum is its durability and versatility. These drums are made from high-quality materials that resist corrosion and damage, so they last a long time even with repeated use. Plus, their size is perfect for bulk storage, which helps me save space and reduce packaging waste. Whether I’m storing ingredients for my business or emergency supplies at home, this drum proves to be a reliable and practical choice every time.
My Buying Guides on 55 Gallon Food Grade Drum
When I first started looking for a 55 gallon food grade drum, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to ensure safety, durability, and suitability for my needs. Here’s what I learned along the way, which I hope will help you make an informed purchase.
Understanding What Food Grade Means
I made sure to choose a drum labeled “food grade” because it guarantees the material is safe for storing consumable items. These drums are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or stainless steel that won’t leach harmful chemicals into food or liquids. Always check for certifications or FDA approval when possible.
Material Matters: Plastic vs. Stainless Steel
I found that plastic food grade drums are lightweight, affordable, and resistant to corrosion, making them great for most uses like storing water, grains, or syrups. Stainless steel drums, on the other hand, are more durable and easier to sanitize, ideal if you’re dealing with highly sensitive food products or need long-term storage.
Choose the Right Closure Type
My drum’s lid type was important because it affects sealing and ease of access. There are two main types: open head (removable lid) and closed head (sealed top with bung openings). I went with an open head drum since I needed to scoop and fill frequently, but if you just need to pour or pump out liquids, a closed head might be more convenient.
Check for BPA-Free and Non-Toxic Certification
Since I’m storing consumables, I ensured the drum was BPA-free and certified non-toxic. This detail is often included in product descriptions or labeling and is vital for health safety.
Consider the Drum’s Previous Use (If Buying Used)
If you’re thinking about buying a used drum like I did to save money, verify its history. Only buy from reliable sources that can confirm the drum was never used to store chemicals or hazardous materials. Food grade drums used previously for food or water storage are usually safe, but better safe than sorry.
Size and Weight Capacity
Although the standard size is 55 gallons, I checked the exact dimensions and weight capacity to make sure it fits my storage space and handling equipment. Some drums can be quite heavy when full, so consider how you’ll move or store them.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
I looked for drums with smooth interiors and wide openings to make cleaning easier. Some drums can be cleaned with simple soap and water, but stainless steel drums offer even better sanitation options.
Price and Warranty
Price can vary widely depending on the material and features. I balanced cost with quality, and I also looked for drums that come with a warranty or guarantee to protect my investment.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 55 gallon food grade drum is an important decision if you want to safely store food or beverages. I recommend prioritizing food safety certifications, material type, and ease of use. Doing your research upfront will save you time and ensure your stored goods remain safe and fresh.
I hope my guide helps you find the perfect food grade drum for your needs!
Author Profile
-
Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.
In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.
Latest entries
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Insulated Curtains for Sliding Glass Doors: Here’s What Really Worked
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Patient Transfer Lift Chair: My Honest Experience and Review
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested French Windows Security Locks: Here’s What Really Works to Keep My Home Safe
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Aquarium Gravel 25 Lbs: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Substrate for Your Fish Tank