With the ongoing legalization of cannabis in various parts of the United States, innovative packaging solutions are rapidly emerging. Among them, soda-style plastic cans are becoming a popular choice for cannabis storage and distribution. These containers not only offer practical benefits but also cater to branding, convenience, and compliance needs in the growing cannabis market.

What Are 3.5g Soda Cans? 

Despite their name, these “soda cans” are not made of aluminum and don’t contain beverages. Instead, they are plastic containers made from PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)—a durable, lightweight material commonly used in food packaging. PET offers excellent transparency, toughness, chemical resistance, and low permeability to gas and moisture, making it suitable for a wide range of storage applications.

In the cannabis industry, these PET containers are designed to resemble soda cans in shape, but they are used primarily for storing flower, edibles, pre-rolls, and other cannabis products. Their appearance allows for creative branding while maintaining discretion and consumer appeal.

Why Are These Cans Gaining Popularity?

The rise of these soda-style containers coincides with the expansion of the legal cannabis market, particularly since Colorado became the first U.S. state to legalize recreational cannabis. As the industry grows, so does the demand for functional, appealing, and regulation-compliant packaging.

Traditional cannabis packaging such as mylar bags and glass jars still dominates the market. However, soda-style plastic cans are carving out a niche, thanks to their combination of visual novelty, practicality, and cost-effectiveness.

Pros and Cons of 3.5g Soda Cans

✅ Advantages

Corrosion Resistance: PET plastic is chemically stable and doesn’t react with acidic or alkaline substances.

Portability: These containers are lightweight and resistant to breakage, making them ideal for transport.

Durability: The material is tough and retains its shape, reducing the risk of damage during handling.

Transparency: PET allows the contents to be visible, enhancing product appeal and aiding product identification.

Recyclability: PET is one of the most commonly recycled plastics, making these cans relatively eco-friendly when disposed of properly.

❌ Disadvantages

Limited Heat Resistance: PET plastic may deform at high temperatures, limiting storage conditions.

Pressure Sensitivity: While durable, these containers are not suitable for pressurized products.

Recycling Challenges: Improper disposal and mixing with other plastics can complicate recycling efforts.

Common Applications in the Cannabis Industry

Soda-style cans are versatile and are increasingly used in:

Cannabis Flower Packaging: The rigid structure protects buds from compression and contamination.

Edibles and Gummies: Airtight sealing helps preserve freshness and potency.

Pre-roll and Cartridge Storage: Their shape and size make them ideal for discrete, individual-use packaging.

Health and Supplement Products: In some cases, the same PET containers are used for tablets, capsules, and vitamins due to their safety and sealing features.

What’s Next for 3.5g Soda Cans?

As consumer expectations evolve, packaging is becoming more than just a container—it’s a brand extension and user experience tool. If these soda-style PET cans continue to receive positive feedback from both producers and consumers, they may soon rival or even surpass mylar bags in popularity within the cannabis packaging market.

With more manufacturers investing in custom shapes, tamper-evident lids, and eco-conscious designs, the future looks promising for this new packaging trend.

As cannabis packaging continues to evolve, 3.5g Soda Cans are emerging as a practical, brand-friendly solution that balances functionality, visual appeal, and compliance in a competitive market.