Sustainable Beer Packaging Transitions

California’s North Coast Brewing Co., a pioneer in craft brewing, is making its packaging more sustainable by releasing two of its flagship beers in cans for the first time and eliminating plastic six-pack rings. The brewery announced that 'Ruedrich’s Red Seal Ale' (first brewed in 1988) and 'PranQster Golden Ale' (since 1995) will now be sold in 12oz aluminum cans, supported by the installation of North Coast’s first in-house canning line.

Alongside the format change, North Coast is switching from standard plastic yokes to 'Eco Rings' – 100% compostable can carriers made from plant fibers. These holders fully biodegrade in both home and industrial compost, leaving no microplastics behind. The company says the move will improve beer freshness and accessibility (cans are lighter and more easily recycled) while reinforcing its long-standing environmental values. The canned beers, complete with compostable rings, are rolling out nationwide, blending the brewery’s tradition with modern sustainable packaging.