Can you store homemade bottled tomato sauce in your garage shed or will they explode the hot months?

Storing homemade bottled tomato sauce in a garage shed during hot months can pose risks of spoilage and damage. Here's why you should avoid storing tomato sauce in a shed:

1. Temperature Fluctuations: Garages and sheds are often subject to significant temperature fluctuations, especially during hot months. When temperatures rise, the internal pressure within sealed glass jars can increase, potentially leading to the jars exploding or bursting.

2. Lack of Temperature Control: Unlike a temperature-controlled pantry or refrigerator, a garage shed cannot maintain a consistent cool temperature. The fluctuating temperatures can affect the quality and safety of the tomato sauce, increasing the risk of spoilage and microbial growth.

3. Exposure to Sunlight: Direct sunlight can heat the jars, causing the sauce to expand and increasing the pressure inside. This can lead to the jars exploding or seals failing, compromising the safety and quality of the sauce.

4. Temperature Variation: Glass jars can amplify temperature changes quickly. When the temperature drops after a hot day, the rapid cooling can create a vacuum seal, making it difficult to open the jars without breaking them.

5. Food Safety Risks: Storing tomato sauce in a garage shed can expose it to various contaminants, such as dust, insects, and rodents. This can increase the risk of foodborne illness and spoilage, making the sauce unsafe for consumption.

To ensure the safety and quality of your homemade bottled tomato sauce, it's best to store it in a cool, dark place with consistent temperatures, such as a pantry or a basement. Avoid storing them in areas that experience extreme temperatures or are exposed to direct sunlight or fluctuating conditions.