What critical preparation step must be taken regarding the jar used for making sun tea?
Answer
Always use a clean, thoroughly sterilized jar
A foundational step in reliable sun tea preparation, irrespective of the specific steeping time chosen, involves ensuring the brewing vessel is completely clean and, most importantly, thoroughly sterilized prior to use. This precaution is vital because any lingering contaminants introduced from previous uses or incomplete cleaning can easily flourish and multiply during the slow, moderate heating process that sun tea undergoes. The presence of bacteria that thrive in the danger zone temperature range necessitates starting with a sterile environment to mitigate safety risks.

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