Maxwell House Coffee is a popular brand of coffee that has been around for over 100 years. The brand is known for its signature blue canisters, which have become an iconic part of American culture. One of the most common questions about Maxwell House Coffee cans is what they are made out of. In this article, we’ll explore: What are Maxwell house Coffee cans made out of, as well as their history, production process, and environmental impact.
What are Maxwell House Coffee cans made out of?
Maxwell House Coffee Cans can be made from a variety of materials, depending on the type of canister and the era it was produced in.
Metal Canisters
Metal canisters were the original type of packaging used for Maxwell House Coffee. These canisters were typically made from tinplate steel, a type of steel that is coated with a thin layer of tin to prevent rusting. Tinplate steel is strong, durable, and resistant to corrosion, making it an ideal material for food packaging.
In the early days of Maxwell House Coffee, metal canisters were often decorated with colorful lithographic designs that featured images of the brand’s signature “Good to the Last Drop” slogan. Over time, these designs evolved to include more modern graphics and branding elements.
Plastic Canisters
In the 1960s, Maxwell House Coffee began transitioning from metal canisters to plastic canisters. Plastic canisters were lighter and less expensive than metal canisters, making them a more cost-effective option for the company. Today, nearly all Maxwell House Coffee canisters are made from plastic.
The specific type of plastic used to make Maxwell House Coffee canisters is polypropylene (PP), a thermoplastic polymer that is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to heat. PP is also easily recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice for packaging.
Other Materials
In addition to metal and plastic, other materials have been used to make Maxwell House Coffee canisters over the years. For example, in the 1930s, the company introduced a line of glass canisters that were designed to be reused as storage containers after the coffee had been consumed. However, glass canisters were not as popular as metal or plastic canisters, and they were eventually phased out.
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History of Maxwell House Coffee Cans
Maxwell House Coffee cans have a long and storied history. The brand was founded in 1892 by Joel Owsley Cheek, a wholesale grocer from Nashville, Tennessee. Cheek developed a blend of coffee that he called “Maxwell House Blend,” named after the Maxwell House Hotel in Nashville where it was served.
The first Maxwell House Coffee canisters were introduced in 1901. These canisters were made from tinplate steel and featured a lithographic image of the Maxwell House Hotel on the front. They quickly became popular with consumers, who appreciated the convenience and durability of the packaging.
Over the years, Maxwell House Coffee canisters underwent several design changes. In the 1920s, the brand’s signature blue color was introduced, and the “Good to the Last Drop” slogan was added to the packaging. In the 1960s, the company began transitioning from metal to plastic canisters, which were less expensive and more lightweight.
Today, Maxwell House Coffee canisters continue to be a popular choice for coffee drinkers around the world. While the design and materials have evolved over time, the brand’s commitment to quality coffee remains the same.
Production Process
The production process for Maxwell House Coffee canisters varies depending on the type of canister being produced.
Metal Canisters
The production process for metal canisters typically involves several steps. First, the tinplate steel is cut into sheets, which are then coated with a thin layer of tin to prevent rusting. The sheets are then printed with lithographic designs, which can feature everything from branding elements to decorative patterns.
Once the sheets have been printed, they are formed into cylindrical shapes using a stamping press. The bottom of the canister is then attached using a seaming machine, and the top is crimped on. The finished canisters are typically coated with a food-grade lacquer to protect the coffee from coming into contact with the metal.
Plastic Canisters
The production process for plastic canisters is similar to that of metal canisters, although there are some differences. First, the polypropylene pellets are melted down and extruded into thin sheets. These sheets are then printed with branding and design elements using a process called “flexographic printing.”
Once the sheets have been printed, they are cut into the appropriate size and shape using a die-cutting machine. The edges of the sheet are then heated and folded to create a cylinder shape, which is held together with adhesive. The bottom and top of the canister are then attached using a heat-sealing machine.
Uses of Maxwell House Coffee Cans
Maxwell House Coffee cans can be used for various purposes beyond just storing coffee. Here are some common uses for Maxwell House Coffee cans:
- Storage containers: empty coffee cans can be reused as storage containers for a variety of household items, such as pens and pencils, craft supplies, or small tools.
- Planters: coffee cans can make excellent planters for small plants or herbs. Simply drill a few holes in the bottom for drainage and fill with soil.
- DIY projects: coffee cans can be repurposed into a variety of DIY projects, such as lamps, bird feeders, or even musical instruments.
- Donation drives: coffee cans have long been used as collection containers for charitable causes, such as collecting spare change for a local charity.
Environmental Impact
Like all types of packaging, Maxwell House Coffee cans have an environmental impact. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when it comes to the environmental impact of Maxwell House Coffee cans:
Recycling Options
Both metal and plastic Maxwell House Coffee canisters are recyclable. Metal canisters can be recycled with other metal products, while plastic canisters can be recycled with other plastic products that have the same resin code (in this case, polypropylene, which is typically designated by the number 5).
It’s important to note that not all recycling programs accept coffee canisters, so it’s a good idea to check with your local recycling program to see what their specific guidelines are.
Disposal Options
If you’re unable to recycle your Maxwell House Coffee canisters, they can still be disposed of properly. Metal canisters can be thrown away with other metal products, while plastic canisters can be thrown away with other plastics that have the same resin code.
However, if possible, it’s always best to try to recycle rather than dispose of the packaging.
Conclusion
In conclusion, what are Maxwell House Coffee cans made out of? It is made from a variety of materials, including metal and plastic. Both types of canisters have been used over the years, with plastic canisters becoming more common in recent decades due to their lower cost and lighter weight.
The production process for both metal and plastic canisters involves several steps, including printing and forming the packaging. Once the coffee has been consumed, Maxwell House Coffee cans can be repurposed or recycled to reduce waste.
While all types of packaging have an environmental impact, proper disposal and recycling can help mitigate this impact. By being mindful of how we use and dispose of packaging, we can all do our part to reduce waste and protect the environment.
