Canned food is a convenient and popular choice for many households. It is shelf stable, usually low cost, and can be stored for long periods of time. But when it comes to being eco-friendly, how does canned food stack up?
The production of canned foods requires a great deal of energy and resources. For example, canning requires large amounts of water for the initial washing and sterilization of the food, which can be an environmental strain.
Additionally, the cans themselves are made from steel or aluminum which involves mining raw materials like iron ore and bauxite. The production process also produces large amounts of waste.
On the plus side, canned foods are generally more nutrient-dense than fresh counterparts because they are often processed at peak ripeness when nutrition levels are highest. They also have a longer shelf life than fresh produce and require less packaging materials since they’re already sealed in cans.
Transportation
Canned foods often travel long distances before reaching consumers, which can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions from transport vehicles. However, this largely depends on where the cans are sourced from and how far they have to travel to reach their destination.
Recycling
Cans are recyclable which helps reduce waste and conserve resources. Most aluminum cans used in food packaging can be recycled indefinitely without losing their quality or strength.
Conclusion:
Overall, while canned food has some environmental drawbacks due to its production process and transportation requirements, it is still a relatively eco-friendly option if it is sourced responsibly and recycled properly.
Is Canned Food Eco Friendly?
Yes, it is eco-friendly if sourced responsibly and recycled properly.