A method (20) and apparatus (100) for sterilizing packaging (102) is disclosed herein. The method (20) applies a solution of hydrogen peroxide onto the packaging (102) and an alkaline solution to react with the hydrogen peroxide to generate hydroxyl radicals to kill microorganism. The use of an alkaline solution allows the sterilization process to proceed at a lower temperature and a faster rate. A solution of sodium hydroxide is the preferred alkaline solution. The temperature of the process is preferably below 100.degree. C.