Behind the Can: The Truth About Why Beer Cans are Lined with Plastic
Beer cans have become a staple of modern drinking culture, providing a quick and easy alternative to traditional bottled beers. Beer cans have also gained popularity due to their portability, durability, and sustainability. However, have you ever wondered why beer cans are lined with plastic? Let’s delve further into this topic and find out why this is the case.
The Purpose of Plastic Linings in Beer Cans
Plastic linings have been used in beer cans for several decades now. These linings serve to protect the beer from the metal can, which is susceptible to leaching harmful chemicals like aluminum and iron into the beer. The plastic lining acts as a barrier between the beer and the metal, safeguarding the flavors, aroma, and quality of the beer.
Evolving Technology
Initially, when beer cans were first introduced in the 1930s, they were lined with wax. The wax lining worked well in preventing the beer from reacting with the metal, but it had several issues, like mold and loss of carbonation. In the 1950s, the wax lining was replaced with a plastic liner made of PVC, a type of plastic that is now known to be harmful to the environment. In 1975, PVC liners were replaced by the more eco-friendly BPA-free epoxy liners, which are still used to this day.
Pros and Cons of Beer Can Linings
While plastic linings have become the norm in beer cans, they have their pros and cons. Some of the advantages of using these linings include:
- Prevention of metal contamination in beer
- Ensuring flavor, aroma, and quality of the beer are maintained
- Durability of the can material
- Portability and convenience for the consumer
- Environmental sustainability, as aluminum cans are the most recycled beverage container in the world
However, plastic linings also have their disadvantages, which include:
- The use of plastic, which is not biodegradable
- Possible health risks associated with some types of plastic linings
- Possible alteration of the taste of the beer due to contact with plastic
- The cost of canning beer in aluminum cans compared to bottling
Alternatives to Plastic Linings
While plastic linings have become the norm for beer cans, an alternative known as Oleoresinous is now gaining popularity, especially in the craft beer industry. Oleoresinous linings are made from natural ingredients like resin and oil and are known to be eco-friendly and safe for consumption. While they may be more expensive than plastic linings, they provide a more natural and organic alternative for beer can linings.
Conclusion
In summary, plastic linings have been used in beer cans primarily to prevent metal contamination and maintain the flavor, aroma, and quality of the beer. Despite their disadvantages, they have become an essential part of beer canning, and alternatives like Oleoresinous linings may provide a more sustainable and safer option.
Frequently Asked Questions about Beer Can Linings
Q: Are plastic-lined beer cans safe for human consumption?
A: Yes, plastic-lined beer cans are safe for human consumption, as the plastic linings used are BPA-free and compliant with FDA guidelines.
Q: Can I recycle plastic-lined beer cans?
A: Yes, plastic-lined beer cans are recyclable, and aluminum cans are the most recycled beverage container in the world.
Q: What is Oleoresinous lining?
A: Oleoresinous lining is a natural alternative to plastic linings, made from ingredients like resin and oil. It is known to be eco-friendly and safe for consumption.
Q: Can plastic linings affect the taste of beer?
A: Yes, plastic linings can potentially affect the taste of beer, as the plastic may alter the taste if it comes into contact with the beer.
Q: Why are plastic linings still being used if they are not environmentally-friendly?
A: While plastic linings are not biodegradable, aluminum cans are the most recycled beverage container in the world. Additionally, alternatives like Oleoresinous linings are now emerging and may provide a more sustainable option.