We often consider aluminum cans a safer, more environmentally friendly alternative to plastic bottles. But what if your can of soda or energy drink is secretly acting like a plastic bottle in disguise? Most aluminum cans, along with many other common food and drink containers, are lined with plastic that may be leaching harmful chemicals into your food and drink.
Let’s look closer at the hidden plastic problem in aluminum cans, milk cartons, and other packaging—and explore safer alternatives you can turn to.
The Hidden Plastic Inside Aluminum Cans
You might be surprised to learn that nearly all aluminum cans are lined with plastic, usually epoxy resin. This lining is intended to prevent the beverage from corroding the metal and giving it a metallic taste. However, the downside is that this plastic lining can contain hundreds to thousands of microplastics and potentially harmful chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA), which may leach into your drink over time.
Even if a can is labeled as “BPA-free,” that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s free of harmful chemicals. Manufacturers often replace BPA with other bisphenols, like BPS or BPF, which may have similar hormone-disrupting effects. These chemicals have been linked to various health concerns, including:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Reproductive issues
- Increased risk of cancer
- Behavioral changes in children
The plastic lining may prevent direct contact with the metal, but it introduces another layer of risk by potentially leaching harmful substances into your beverage. And it’s not just limited to sodas—energy drinks, canned waters, and even health drinks packaged in aluminum cans are often lined with this type of plastic.[1]
Canned Foods: Aluminum Cans BPA-Free Doesn’t Mean Plastic-Free
If you thought this issue was only limited to beverages, think again. Canned foods, including vegetables, soups, and even meats, commonly feature a plastic lining inside the can. And, like aluminum cans, even those labeled as “BPA-free” may still contain other potentially harmful chemicals.
These plastic linings are often used to extend shelf life and prevent corrosion, but the trade-off is that they expose you to chemicals that could be leaching into your food. The risk is particularly concerning for acidic foods like tomatoes, which can cause more of the plastic’s chemicals to break down and enter your meal.[2]
So, the next time you pick up a can of soup or vegetables, consider whether you’re comfortable with the hidden plastic lurking inside.
The Surprising Truth About Cartons
Consider that cartons, particularly those used for liquids like milk or broth, are safer than cans. But cartons aren’t immune to the plastic problem either. Many refrigerated milk cartons, for example, are lined with plastic—about 20% of their structure is polyethylene plastic. The rest is typically paperboard, but that layer of plastic can still come into contact with your milk or juice.
Similarly, shelf-stable cartons, such as those used for chicken stock or plant-based milk, often contain an even higher percentage of polyethylene, around 22%. While these cartons may seem more eco-friendly, the presence of plastic inside means you’re still facing potential chemical exposure, especially if the product is stored for long periods or exposed to heat.
A Solution for Plastic-Lined Aluminum Cans
With so much hidden plastic in everyday food and drink packaging, it is overwhelming to avoid exposure. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your reliance on plastic-lined packaging and make safer choices for yourself and your family.
Here are some alternatives to consider:
- Opt for Glass: When possible, choose beverages and food items packaged in glass containers. Glass is non-reactive, meaning it won’t leach chemicals into your food or drink, making it one of the safest packaging options. Look for glass bottles or jars for products like tomato sauces, broths, or pickled vegetables.[3]
- Choose Dried Goods: Opt for dried versions instead of canned beans or vegetables. Dried beans, lentils, and other staples can be cooked at home and stored safely without plastic-lined packaging. Not only are they safer, but they’re also often more affordable and have a longer shelf life.[4]
- Make Your Stock or Broth: If you regularly use chicken or vegetable stock, consider making your own at home. Homemade broths can be stored in glass containers or frozen for later use, eliminating the need for plastic-lined cartons.
- Shop at Local Markets: Many local farmers’ markets or specialty food stores offer fresh produce, dairy, and pantry items not packaged in plastic-lined containers. Supporting local businesses also helps reduce your environmental impact.
- Buy Fresh or Frozen: For vegetables, buy fresh or frozen options instead of canned. Frozen vegetables are usually packaged in BPA-free plastic, and fresh vegetables eliminate the need for packaging.
Rethink Your Packaging
It’s easy to be fooled by a metal exterior or an eco-friendly-looking carton, but the truth is that many aluminum cans and other containers are hiding plastic on the inside. The next time you reach for a can or a carton, think about what’s inside—and whether it’s worth exposing yourself to harmful chemicals.
By making small, intentional changes in how we shop and what we buy, we can significantly reduce our exposure to plastic and other toxic substances. The key is to be informed and control what you put into your body. Opt for non-toxic, glass, or unlined packaging options whenever possible to protect your health and the environment.
After all, it’s not just what’s inside the can that matters—it’s also what’s lining it.
References:
- Deshwal, Gaurav Kr., and Narender Raju Panjagari. “Review on Metal Packaging: Materials, Forms, Food Applications, Safety and Recyclability.” Journal of Food Science and Technology, vol. 57, no. 7, July 2020, pp. 2377–92. PubMed Central.
- Deshwal, Gaurav Kr., and Narender Raju Panjagari. “Review on Metal Packaging: Materials, Forms, Food Applications, Safety and Recyclability.” Journal of Food Science and Technology, vol. 57, no. 7, July 2020, pp. 2377–92. PubMed Central.
- Claudio, Luz. “Our Food: Packaging & Public Health.” Environmental Health Perspectives, vol. 120, no. 6, June 2012, pp. a232–37. PubMed Central.
- Mitchell, Diane C., et al. “Consumption of Dry Beans, Peas, and Lentils Could Improve Diet Quality in the US Population.” Journal of the American Dietetic Association, vol. 109, no. 5, May 2009, pp. 909–13. PubMed.
