Six-pack rings

Introduction

Six-pack rings or six-pack yokes are a form of packaging used to hold together multi-packs of canned beverages, particularly beer, a six-pack of beer is a common quantity purchased by consumers. The design allows the cans to be easily carried and stored, while also providing a convenient way to display product information.

History

The six-pack ring was invented in 1960 by the ITW Hi-Cone company, a subsidiary of the Illinois Tool Works. The original design was made from a type of plastic that was not biodegradable, leading to environmental concerns.

Environmental Impact

Six-pack rings have been criticized for their environmental impact. They can end up in waterways and pose a threat to wildlife, particularly marine animals, who can become entangled in the rings or ingest them. In response to these concerns, some companies have started producing biodegradable six-pack rings.

Biodegradable Six-Pack Rings

Biodegradable six-pack rings are made from organic materials that break down naturally in the environment. One example is the rings produced by E6PR (Eco Six Pack Ring), which are made from wheat and barley. These rings are designed to break down in a matter of weeks and are safe for animals to ingest.

Legislation and Alternatives

In some areas, legislation has been introduced to reduce the use of plastic six-pack rings. For example, in 1994, the U.S. state of Florida passed a law requiring all six-pack rings sold in the state to be degradable.

Alternatives to six-pack rings include cardboard boxes or carriers, which are biodegradable and often made from recycled materials. Some breweries also use can carriers made from post-consumer recycled plastic, which can be reused or recycled.

Conclusion

While six-pack rings have been a standard in beverage packaging for decades, their environmental impact has led to the development of more sustainable alternatives. Through a combination of innovative design, legislation, and consumer demand, the industry is moving towards more environmentally friendly packaging options.

See Also

• Packaging and labeling
• Environmental impact of plastic
• Sustainable packaging
• Beer bottle
• Can carrier