Look for metal packaging designed for beverages

Several types of metal packaging exist for storing and preserving drinks. While the pop-top aluminum can is the most common type of aluminum beverage container, you can also find peel-off tab cans (usually smaller in size than other aluminum cans) and even aluminum bottles.

I recommend: Browse the types of aluminum beverage cans to see what options exist for the metal packaging of drinks. You can also browse different beverage cans by size to select the container that best fits your packaging needs.

Browse different types of metal food packaging supplies

Aluminum food containers come in multiple types of cans in a wide variety of sizes. Typically, there are two-piece cans and three-piece cans available in several different volume sizes. You will typically need to select a can type and size separately from an end closure.

I recommend: Browse both two-piece cans and three-piece cans when looking for a basic aluminum food container. You may have a chance to select a type of end closure when you buy the cans, or you may have to select end closures for food packaging supplies separately, so check what pieces are included in a metal food container.

Select appropriate closures for your metal food containers

Typically, metal food containers are capped with either twist-off threaded lids or tabs that pop or peel off. A wider selection of specialty closures are becoming available, however, including resealable and easier to open lids.

I recommend: Many aluminum food containers such as food and beverage cans come with end closures attached, so you don't need to worry about selecting a closure separately. Metal twist closures are good for glass food packaging, however, and you can buy these independently.

Shop metal tins and to-go boxes for special metal packaging needs

Metal food tins offer a wide range of options for decorative food packaging and easily packed and transported to-go packaging. Certain types of food industries, specifically small, privately-owned bakeries and restaurants, may find food packaging tins a more personalized and convenient use of metal packaging.

I recommend: Decorative metal tins are a great choice for small bakeries to use because they provide a personalized touch for the products being packaged. Aluminum round to-go boxes are also useful for restaurants who need a take-away solution for quick metal packaging.

Don't forget the metal packaging machines

If you're doing your own food packaging, you'll need a machine for the packaging process. Some food packaging suppliers sell both canning and bottling materials and machinery for canning and bottling. Specialized machinery may require the use of certain types of food packaging materials, and may not be compatible with all types of packaging.

I recommend: Get capping machines for any types of food packaging process if you do your own food processing on a large scale. If you are doing your own canning on a smaller scale, you may find it more feasible to use glass containers with metal lids rather than all aluminum packaging that requires a machine.