Do Pop Cans Have Microplastics? The Surprising Truth Behind Metal Packaging

October 14, 2025 •

4 min read

Most consumers are unaware that nearly all aluminum pop cans contain a thin, hidden plastic liner on the interior surface. This critical but often overlooked detail means that yes, pop cans do have microplastics, and potentially other concerning chemicals, leaching into the beverages they hold. This article explores the purpose of this liner, the potential risks associated with it, and what consumers can do to minimize their exposure.

Quick Summary

An invisible plastic liner in almost all aluminum beverage cans is the source of microplastics that can leach into drinks. This coating, used to prevent corrosion and metallic taste, may release harmful chemicals like BPA or its substitutes. Researchers have detected microplastic particles in soft drinks and other canned products.

Key Points

Invisible Plastic Liner: Nearly all aluminum pop cans have a thin, plastic polymer lining to prevent corrosion and protect the flavor of the beverage.
Source of Microplastics: This hidden liner is a source of microplastic particles and chemical additives, which can leach into the drink over time.
BPA and its Substitutes: Historically, BPA was used in can linings, but many companies now use "BPA-free" alternatives like BPS and BPF, which may have similar health concerns.
Manufacturing Contamination: Microplastic contamination can also occur during the factory production process from equipment, seals, and the initial water supply.
Complicates Recycling: The plastic lining complicates the otherwise infinitely recyclable aluminum by burning off during the melting process, requiring more energy and creating emissions.
Informed Consumerism: Choosing alternative packaging like glass or stainless steel is a way to reduce microplastic exposure from canned beverages.
Ongoing Research: Health risks associated with ingesting microplastics and chemical additives from packaging are still being studied, and the long-term effects are not yet fully understood.

The Hidden Plastic Liner in Aluminum Cans

Beneath the seemingly impermeable aluminum exterior of a pop can lies a polymer lining, often an epoxy resin, that serves a vital function. This coating acts as a barrier, preventing the highly acidic contents of the drink—like phosphoric or citric acid—from corroding the metal and giving the beverage an unpleasant metallic taste. While beneficial for preserving flavor and extending shelf life, this protective layer is the primary source of plastic contamination.

The Problem with the Coating

For years, a chemical known as Bisphenol A (BPA) was a common component of these epoxy resins. Following widespread public concern over its potential as an endocrine disruptor, many manufacturers switched to "BPA-free" alternatives. However, research indicates that some replacements, such as BPS or BPF, may pose similar health risks and also leach into the contents.

Sources of Microplastic Contamination

Microplastics can enter canned beverages through several pathways:

Leaching from the Can Liner: Over time, and especially when exposed to acidic liquids or varying temperatures, the plastic resin can degrade and release microscopic particles and chemical additives into the beverage.
Manufacturing Processes: Contamination can occur during the production and filling processes in the factory, including from machinery, seals, and gaskets.
Water Supply: The water used in beverage production may already contain microplastic particles before it even reaches the can.

Comparison: Canned vs. Other Packaging

To understand the full picture, it's helpful to compare microplastic exposure across different types of beverage packaging.


Feature	Aluminum Can	Plastic Bottle (PET)	Glass Bottle	Aseptic Carton	Stainless Steel Container
Hidden Plastic?	Yes, via interior liner.	No, the bottle is made of plastic.	Sometimes, in the cap or cap padding.	Yes, multi-layered with polyethylene.	Generally plastic-free, but check seals.
Leaching Source	Protective resin lining and chemicals like BPA substitutes.	The main bottle material (PET) itself, especially when exposed to heat or friction.	Primarily from cap seals or coatings.	Polyethylene layers and seals.	Seals or manufacturing process, but overall low risk.
Microplastic Levels	Moderate to low, varies by location and production.	Can be high, and increases with repeated opening.	Surprisingly variable; one study found high levels.	Generally lower, depending on type.	Very low if designed to be plastic-free.
Health Concerns	Exposure to chemical additives from the liner.	Ingestion of plastic particles and chemical additives.	Minimal, though some cap seals could be a source.	Exposure to layered plastics.	Generally considered safest option, minimal leaching.

Understanding the Recycling Process

While aluminum is infinitely recyclable, the presence of the plastic liner complicates the process. During recycling, the cans are melted at high temperatures, which burns off the plastic lining. This process requires more energy and can result in lower purity recycled aluminum. The burning off of the plastic also releases emissions and microplastics into the environment.

Health Implications

The health effects of ingesting microplastics and the chemical additives from can linings are still under extensive research, but some concerns have been raised. Potential health impacts linked to BPA and its substitutes include:

Hormonal imbalances
Reproductive issues
Increased risk of certain cancers

It's important to note that regulatory bodies, like the FDA, are still studying this issue and currently state there's no evidence that the levels found pose a risk to human health, but they continue to monitor the research. The long-term effects of chronic, low-level exposure are still not fully understood.

The Takeaway for Consumers

For consumers concerned about microplastics and chemical exposure, awareness is the first step. While avoiding all plastic contact is nearly impossible, especially with modern manufacturing, being mindful of your packaging choices can help reduce your intake. Options such as opting for glass bottles, stainless steel containers, or fresh products can minimize exposure. For canned goods, choosing brands that disclose their BPA-free lining materials is a start, but understanding that "BPA-free" doesn't always mean "chemical-free" is essential.

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices

The answer to the question "do pop cans have microplastics?" is a definitive yes, though the source is the unseen protective liner rather than the aluminum itself. This fact highlights a broader issue with food and beverage packaging, where hidden plastics and potentially harmful chemicals are more common than many consumers realize. By being aware of these details, understanding the trade-offs of different packaging, and supporting companies committed to safer and more sustainable materials, consumers can make more informed choices for their health and the environment.

Learn more about microplastics and their effects on health from CNN.(https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/24/health/microplastics-food-packaging-study-wellness)

Frequently Asked Questions

The plastic lining in most pop cans is typically an epoxy resin, although manufacturers have moved away from BPA-based resins in recent years to alternatives like acrylic or polyester.

No, a 'BPA-free' label does not guarantee the can is free of potentially harmful chemicals. Many BPA substitutes, such as BPS and BPF, have raised similar health concerns and can also leach from the lining.

Research into the health effects of microplastic and chemical ingestion from can linings is ongoing. Potential concerns include hormonal imbalances and other developmental issues, though the FDA has stated current levels detected in food do not appear to pose a risk to human health.

Glass is generally considered a safer alternative to aluminum cans for minimizing microplastic and chemical exposure, as long as the cap doesn't contain plastic components that could degrade. However, some studies have even found microplastics in drinks from glass bottles, likely from cap seals.

Microplastics can also be found in canned foods, like soups and vegetables, and other beverage packaging, including glass bottle cap seals and multi-layered cartons.

Microplastics can enter the beverage by leaching from the can's plastic lining due to acidity or heat, but also from the manufacturing and filling processes, or even from the initial water source.

The recycling process for aluminum cans burns off the plastic liner at high heat. While this removes the plastic from the can, it expends additional energy and releases microplastics and other emissions into the environment, making the process less efficient.