Transparent can
Hartsville, S.C.-based Sonoco Inc. recently debuted a clear, retortable plastic can, the first of its kind to withstand the rigors of the retort cooking process — high temperatures and high pressure, according to the manufacturer. Sonoco conducted market research indicating that if given the option, 70 percent of respondents would prefer a clear plastic can over a traditional metal can. The packaging option could help shelf-stable products take back lost market share from fresh-prepared items at the perimeter of the store, the company maintains. The Sonoco plastic can is already on the shelves in 400 Harris Teeter and Ingles stores in the Southeast.
