The steel packaging market is dominated by human food cans, with pet food, aerosol and general line products comprising the balance. Canned food competes with fresh and frozen food products and alternative packaging formats such as stand-up pouches, glass and plastic packaging for a share of the approximately $300 billion spent on food in supermarkets each year.

The greatest challenge facing SMDI’s Container Market Program is overcoming negative consumer perceptions about the nutritional benefits of canned food. The Canned Food Alliance (CFA), a consortium of SMDI’s tin mill producers, can manufacturers and select food processors, educates consumers, key influencers and the government about the numerous attributes of canned food. The CFA has always been built on a foundation of scientific and consumer research.

The goal of the CFA program is to strengthen long-term demand in the food can market by promoting the nutrition, convenience, versatility and value of canned foods.