How to Handle It
If you encounter a plastic spacer in your canned food, here’s what to do:
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Remove the Spacer
Carefully lift it out of the can. It may be slippery due to the liquid, so you can use a fork or spoon if needed. -
Drain or Rinse the Food
If your recipe requires drained or rinsed food, pour the contents into a colander and rinse under cold water. -
Dispose of the Spacer
Discard the plastic insert in your recycling bin if it is accepted in your area.
Why Don’t All Cans Have This?
Not all canned goods include plastic spacers. Their use depends on the type of food, the packaging process, and the manufacturer’s practices. Foods that are more delicate or prone to floating, such as beans or certain fruits, are more likely to include spacers to ensure quality and consistency.
A Common but Overlooked Practice
The use of plastic spacers in canned goods is a practical solution to common challenges in food preservation and packaging. While it might seem unusual at first, it’s a clever way to ensure that the food you buy is fresh, visually appealing, and of high quality.
So, the next time you open a can and find a white plastic insert, you’ll know it’s there to help—not to harm. Simply remove it, enjoy your food, and appreciate the thought that went into its packaging!
