How Did People Open Canned Food Before Can Openers?

Before the invention of the can opener, people had to resort to some very creative methods in order to open cans of food. This was a necessity for those who didn’t have access to the modern convenience of a can opener.

Chisels and Hammers
One of the earliest methods was using a chisel and hammer to puncture the lid of the can. This was a dangerous method, as it involved striking metal with metal, which could cause pieces of metal to fly off in different directions. It also took time and skill in order to make sure that the lid wasn’t punctured too far into the can, or else it would be difficult to remove it from inside.

Knives
Another method was using a knife or sharp blade to cut through the top of the can. This could be done by either making several small cuts around the circumference of the lid, or by cutting through it in one go if you had a strong enough knife. Again, this was a dangerous method that required skill and patience in order to make sure that you didn’t cut yourself while doing it.

Scissors
Scissors were also used as makeshift can openers, though they weren’t ideal due to their size and shape not being conducive for cutting through metal lids. However, some people did manage to use scissors successfully by wedging them between the lid and body of the can and twisting them back and forth until they eventually pierced through.

Fire
The most primitive method was using fire to heat up the edges of the lid until they became soft enough for someone to pry them off with their hands or with a tool like a screwdriver. This obviously posed risks such as burning oneself, but it was still an option for those who had no other choice.

Conclusion:
Before can openers were invented, people resorted to all sorts of creative methods in order to open cans of food such as chisels and hammers, knives, scissors, and even fire! Although these methods could be dangerous at times, they allowed people without access to modern conveniences like can openers still be able enjoy canned food.