Why Aren’t We Selling Canned Water Instead of Plastic Bottles?
Selling canned water as an alternative to plastic bottles has been a topic of interest in recent years. While this method offers numerous advantages, it also comes with its own set of challenges. In this article, we explore the benefits and drawbacks of canned water and discuss the factors that could influence its potential future popularity in the market.
Advantages of Canned Water
Sustainability
- Recyclability: Cans can be recycled multiple times without losing quality, making them an eco-friendlier option compared to plastic bottles. This potential for multiple recycling cycles significantly reduces the amount of plastic waste in landfills and oceans.
Environmental Impact
- Lower Carbon Footprint: Producing aluminum cans can have a lower carbon footprint compared to plastic, especially if the aluminum is sourced from recycled materials. This makes canned water a more sustainable choice from an energy consumption perspective.
Taste
- Better Flavor: Some consumers believe that water tastes better when stored in aluminum cans rather than plastic bottles. This is due to the fact that plastic bottles can sometimes leach chemicals, affecting the taste of the water.
Marketing Appeal
- Premium Label: Canned water can be marketed as a premium product, appealing to consumers who are environmentally conscious. This market positioning can lead to higher sales and brand loyalty if consumers connect with the brand's environmental efforts.
Challenges of Canned Water
Cost
- Higher Production and Transport Costs: Cans cost more to produce and transport compared to plastic bottles. This can translate to higher retail prices for consumers, potentially reducing its market appeal.
Weight and Bulk
- Increased Shipping Costs: Cans are heavier and bulkier than plastic bottles, which increases shipping costs. This can be a significant hurdle for companies that rely heavily on long-distance deliveries.
Consumer Habits
- Consumer Behavior: Changing consumer behavior from buying water in plastic bottles to cans can be challenging. Consumers are generally accustomed to the convenience of plastic bottles and may be resistant to change.
- Infrastructure: The infrastructure for canning water is not as widespread as that for bottling, which limits availability in certain markets. This could be a significant drawback for companies hoping to expand their product line.
Current Trends
While some brands have successfully sold canned water, the market remains relatively niche compared to bottled water. However, as environmental concerns continue to grow, it is possible that canned water could become more popular in the future. Significant progress in production and distribution challenges could accelerate this trend.
Safe Heating of Canned Water
In terms of heating canned water, it is crucial to handle it with care. Canned water is contained in unlined aluminum cans, which are coated with an epoxy resin on the inside. This coating is designed to be inert after the chemical reaction completes, meaning it is safe to use. However, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure safety:
- Temperature Limit: The recommendation is not to heat any cured epoxy resin to more than 165F (74C). Higher temperatures can compromise the integrity of the coating, leading to potential health risks.
By heeding these guidelines, consumers can safely heat canned water, ensuring it is still safe for consumption while enjoying a convenient solution to their hydration needs.
Conclusion
The debate over canned water versus plastic bottles is ongoing, with each method having its own set of advantages and challenges. As the market evolves and consumers become more environmentally conscious, the potential for canned water to gain popularity increases. By addressing the existing challenges, we may see a shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives in the future.