Everyone knows about “canned beer,” especially working folks who like to unwind with a can after work. But have you ever wondered about the origins of that refreshing cold beer can? Here’s the story.
Where did cans come from?
The world’s first can has a long history, dating back to when Napoleon wanted a “packaging” solution to preserve food quality for his armies on long journeys. A French chef named Nicolas Appert invented a method to preserve food using “cans” that directly protect food from external contact. The early canned foods included pickled, dried, and salted foods, packed in wide-mouth glass jars, sealed with cork and wax, and then boiled to sterilize with heat. This method effectively extended food shelf life, earning Appert the title “father of canning.”
Cans were further developed by an Englishman named Donkin and Hall, who evolved the original wide-mouth glass jar into a “metal can” sterilized with heat. These cans gained popularity for many years until Peter Durand first commercially used cans, changing their design for a tighter seal.
Today, cans are not just for storing dry food or extending food shelf life. They have become a crucial packaging in the food industry, for savory foods, sweets, and beverages alike.
Where did canned beer production start from?
The start of canned beer came from the global love and passion for beer, making it a popular drink. Good beer needs to have not just great taste but also the right fizz, and packaging plays a crucial role in maintaining these elements. The fizz in beer comes from carbon dioxide from fermentation or added gas to increase the bubbles, and cans are perfect for keeping this gas intact because they can 100% prevent light and oxygen from affecting the drink’s quality.
Using beer cans today
Beer cans are increasingly used because they keep the beer tasting great and are convenient for transport and carrying. Most beer cans are made from aluminium, which is lightweight, highly resistant to corrosion, and 100% completely blocks light and air.
Beer can production
Made in 2 pieces for aluminium cans, consisting of the can body and lid. The production starts with forming the can into a cup shape, stretching it to the desired height, and creating a dome at the bottom to strengthen the can. The lid is made separately and sealed after filling.
Benefits of using beer cans:
- Environmentally friendly as they are made from recyclable aluminium.
- Producing beer cans from recycled aluminium can reduce the energy needed in the production process by up to 95%.
- Easy to transport and carry due to the lightweight nature of aluminium, reducing the risk of breakage.
- Aluminium helps the beer cool quickly and stay cold longer.
- Production and printing on aluminium can packaging can be done in various sizes and styles, helping create a unique identity for the product.
- Aluminium cans don’t rust.
What sizes do beer cans come in?
TBC produces beer cans in various sizes as follows…
| ประเภทกระป๋องอลูมิเนียม | ปริมาณ | ความสูง | ฝากระป๋อง |
| REGULAR CAN | 330 ml | 115 mm | 202 |
| REGULAR CAN | 500 ml | 168 mm | 202 |
Please see more details on each type of can at the TBC’s Aluminium Beverage Can Products page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are beer cans made of?
Most beer cans are made from aluminium.
What are beer can lids made from?
The lids are also made from aluminium, but it’s a stronger, crisper, and more corrosion-resistant grade than what’s used for the can body, ensuring the lid is stable and easy to open.
Can beer cans be recycled?
Yes, beer cans made from aluminium can be recycled.
Can beer can lids be recycled?
Yes, they can be recycled.
Where can I find the expiration date on canned beer?
You can find it on the bottom of the can.
What’s the minimum order for producing aluminium cans or beer cans?
If you’re looking for a beer can manufacturer, TBC typically sets a production minimum of 300,000 cans. For special cases, like small lot products such as bottled water or craft beer, you can order 50,000 or 150,000 cans.
How much does it cost to produce beer cans?
The price depends on the type of beverage. If you’re interested in ordering, please contact our staff at the CONTACT US