Why do we make canned pet foods?

Aluminum canning has several advantages over other materials like steel or plastic for pet foods:

1. Lightweight & Cost-Effective

Aluminum is much lighter than steel, which reduces shipping costs and makes handling easier. This can be a big advantage for large-scale production and distribution. Aluminum creates an airtight, lightproof, and moisture-proof seal, preventing oxygen exposure that can degrade food quality. Plastic is more permeable to oxygen and light, which can lead to faster spoilage. Unlike plastic, aluminum does not contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals like phthalates or BPA (though some coatings may have BPA-free alternatives).

2. Corrosion Resistance

Aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer, making it more resistant to rust compared to steel. While steel cans are usually coated with protective linings, aluminum cans often have better long-term resistance to corrosion, especially for high-moisture or acidic foods. Plastic containers can crack, puncture, or degrade over time, especially with fatty or acidic foods. Aluminum maintains its integrity better.

3. Faster & More Efficient Processing

Aluminum conducts heat more efficiently than steel, allowing for faster cooking and sterilization during the canning process. This helps maintain food quality and reduces energy costs.

4. Recyclability

Aluminum is 100% recyclable without losing its quality, and recycling aluminum requires significantly less energy than producing new aluminum. This makes it a more sustainable choice for eco-conscious brands and consumers.

5. BPA-Free & Food Safety Considerations

While both steel and aluminum cans may use protective coatings, aluminum cans can be lined with BPA-free materials that are less prone to degradation over time, improving long-term food safety. Plastic packaging can shed microplastics into food over time, especially when exposed to heat. This is a growing concern in both human and pet nutrition.

6. Consumer Preference & Perception

Aluminum cans are often perceived as more modern and environmentally friendly, which can be a selling point for premium pet food brands. We have done consumer tests with Tetra Pak products & plastic pouches and both received very negative remarks from consumers. Textures change in plastic pouches versus aluminum cans for example. Additionally, many companies in the industry are now discontinuing these products because of poor performance.

Hopefully this helps shed some light on why canning in aluminum cans is so popular in pet food!