11 Products That Used to Be Sold in Glass Bottles Only
These 11 everyday products were originally packaged in glass bottles before switching to other materials for cost, safety, or convenience.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Glass bottles were once the standard for many products, including soft drinks, milk, and pharmaceuticals. Over time, brands moved to plastic, aluminum, or cartons to meet changing consumer needs. These shifts reflect how packaging evolves with technology, transportation, and lifestyle changes.
1. Coca-Cola
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Coca-Cola was first sold in glass bottles in 1899 and remained glass-only for decades. The brand’s iconic contour bottle became a global symbol. By the 1970s, Coca-Cola began introducing plastic bottles and aluminum cans. Today, while glass is still used, most Coca-Cola is sold in PET bottles or cans.
2. Heinz Ketchup
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Heinz ketchup was originally packaged only in glass bottles with a narrow neck. The thick sauce often made it hard to pour, leading to consumer frustration. In 1983, Heinz introduced plastic squeeze bottles, which quickly gained popularity. Although glass bottles are still sold, the plastic version now dominates the shelves.
3. Milk
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Milk delivery in glass bottles was once common in the US, UK, and many other countries. Bottles were collected, cleaned, and reused by dairies. Over time, paper cartons and plastic jugs replaced glass for easier transport and lower costs. Today, glass milk bottles are mostly used by small local dairies or for specialty milk.
4. Pepsi
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Like Coca-Cola, Pepsi was also sold exclusively in glass bottles for much of the 20th century. As demand grew and distribution expanded, plastic and aluminum became more practical. The company adopted PET plastic bottles in the 1990s. Glass is now a niche option for collectors or premium formats.
5. Listerine
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Listerine mouthwash was first introduced in 1879 and sold in glass bottles. The clear glass let people see the product, but it was heavy and breakable. In the 1990s, the brand transitioned to plastic bottles due to safety and shipping considerations. Most mouthwash brands followed the same path.
6. Perrier
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Perrier mineral water gained fame in its distinctive green glass bottles. For many years, glass was the only option available. To meet global demand and reduce shipping weight, Perrier later released plastic bottles. Glass remains a premium choice for settings, but plastic has expanded its accessibility.
7. Olive Oil
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Olive oil was once sold mainly in dark glass bottles to protect it from light and spoilage. Glass helped preserve quality but added weight and breakage risk. Today, many brands use tin, plastic, or squeeze bottles for their ease and cost-effectiveness. Glass is still commonly used for high-end or imported oils.
8. Coca-Cola Syrup (pharmacies)
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In its early days, Coca-Cola syrup was sold in glass bottles to pharmacies, where it was mixed with carbonated water. The medicinal-style glass bottles matched the product’s original purpose. As Coca-Cola shifted to ready-to-drink soft drinks, packaging followed. Glass was phased out in favor of factory-filled bottles.
9. Soy Sauce (Kikkoman)
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Kikkoman soy sauce was introduced in glass bottles designed by Kenji Ekuan in 1961. The design became iconic, with a red spout and a smooth pour. Although still widely used in restaurants and homes, Kikkoman has also introduced plastic refill pouches. This has made the product easier to store and ship.
10. Cough Syrup
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Over-the-counter cough syrups like Robitussin were originally sold in amber glass bottles. The dark glass helped block light to preserve ingredients. Over time, brands have switched to plastic for its lighter weight and safety. Glass is now rare in this category, except in pharmacies or for certain herbal remedies.
11. Baby Formula
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Before formula powders were widespread, baby formula was often distributed in pre-mixed liquid form in sealed glass bottles. These were used in hospitals and could be warmed and fed directly. Eventually, disposable plastic bottles and powdered formula became more practical. Glass is now used mainly for specialized feeding systems or glass bottle feeding.