WASHINGTON, DC, August 25, 2016 – Aluminum cans play a prominent role in enhancing consumer drinking experience, according to a new research report released by Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI). The report, which looked at the science behind taste and the consumer sensory experience, found that multiple sensory cues, including the sound of a can opening, the 360-degree graphic capabilities, the unique re-sealable qualities and cans’ versatility impact and enhance the consumer beverage drinking experience.
The new studies, conducted by FoodMinds, a Chicago-based food and nutrition consulting company, include a sensory profiling study, quantitative consumer package use/attitudes survey, and review of published secondary research. Grant Prentice, director of strategic insights at FoodMinds, summarized, “whether its reinforcing the subtle but important sensory qualities of a drink, or protecting the complex taste chemistry of a craft beverage, cans play a prominent role in contributing to drinkers’ experiences with their favorite beverages.“
Key findings in the report include:
- Cans effectively block out the damaging effects of oxygen, light and temperature to help preserve flavor.
- Aluminum cans provide a higher level of beverage chemistry protection – a benefit especially important for beer, juice and milk that are particularly sensitive to the effects of light and oxygen.
- Packaging has a significant impact on consumer perceptions of food and beverage—via the cracking noise they make when opened, to their cold and smooth tactile qualities, aluminum cans create satisfying expectations of a products taste and smell.
- Over time, the aluminum can preserves the sensory qualities of a beverage, contributing to a consistent drinking experience, potentially enhancing repeat purchase opportunities.
“This research reinforces that the can is the premier package to provide the best beverage experience for consumers,” said CMI president Robert Budway. “Choosing the aluminum can is the perfect vehicle to impact beverage sales.”
The research findings can be found at http://smartcansolutions.com/campaign-tools.html.com,an educational resource for beverage packaging professionals and brands to learn more about the benefits of the can.
Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI)
CMI is the national trade association of the metal can manufacturing industry and its suppliers in the United States. The can industry accounts for the annual domestic production of approximately 124 billion food, beverage and other metal cans; which employs more than 28,000 people with plants in 33 states, Puerto Rico and American Samoa; and generates about $17.8 billion in direct economic activity. Its members are committed to providing safe, nutritious and refreshing canned food and beverages to consumers.