Historically, cans made solely of steel posed risks for food packaging due to potential corrosion from food contents. To address this, steel or metal cans are coated with a layer of tin for food packaging purposes. Tin, being a soft, malleable, and non-toxic metal, serves as a protective barrier against corrosion, thereby preventing food contamination. In tin-plated cans, tin typically comprises only 1-2% of the material, with the remainder being iron or steel. Consequently, tin-plated cans are heavier and more expensive to transport than modern tin cans.
In contemporary times, the predominant material used in food packaging cans is tin. Its corrosion resistance and malleability make it an ideal choice for preserving food. However, due to tin's scarcity, most modern cans are crafted from aluminum and other soft, non-corrosive metals. Tin's recyclability and capacity for multiple reuse make it a favored material for can packaging.
