Metal cans and tins prepared for recycling © photka
When it comes to metal tins we might be dealing with a packaging solution that is considerably more eco-friendly than we first thought.
One of the main issues we have with metal food packaging is that we don’t know enough about it. Despite past accusations regarding metal packaging and the environment it would appear as though it’s not as bad for it as we first thought. In fact it might even be better than some of the alternatives available including some bioplastics.
Plastics are not biodegradable and can lie in landfill sites for hundreds of years. Bioplastics on the other hand, designed to be biodegradable are manufactured to be so durable that they aren’t easy to compost. They have to be sent to a specially developed industrial composter in order to break them down properly.
This isn’t as much of an issue with metal packaging because unlike plastic takeaway containers it will degrade over time. As well as this there are a number of other factors that make it a more suitable choice of food packaging. Metal provides a reasonably cost effective solution as it is easy to acquire and manufacture on a large scale. This offers the ability to produce up to a thousand metal tins every minute with the use of the right machinery. Metal tins are also a resilient and reliable form of food packaging offering a safe and secure environment for food. They help to retain freshness, prevent spoilage and prevent contamination. This is demonstrated by the fact that metal food packaging is compliant with all major food regulations and legislations. It is also accepted as a feasible option all around the world. As well as being a hit with food manufacturers metal tins are a popular choice amongst consumers thanks to their durability and hygiene factors.
Tin cans are often used for packaging a number of processed foods, fruits, beans, fish produce and much more. This is because it is able to keep food fresh for long periods of time allowing it to be stored in the cupboard without the worry that it will spoil. Some tinned foods can last for years and years if unopened.
As well as the above tin cans can help contribute to the maintenance of the planet. They are completely recyclable making them a strong competitor with environmentalists, even against biodegradable alternatives. 70% of metal cans around the world were successfully recycled last year. This means that 70% of metal cans were given thousands of new uses. Using recycled materials in the place of fresh materials can help save 95% of the energy involved in manufacturing the product.
Manufacturers of tin cans have made it clear that their intention is to eventually be able to recycle every can they produce. This would have a huge impact on the environment, with the current life cycle (manufacture, to product, to purchase, to recycling, to manufacture again) takes an average of 60 days. This includes relying on the customers to recycle the products themselves.