Sometimes called "tin cans," steel food and beverage containers comprise one of the most desirable items in the mix of recyclables. More steel is recycled each year than the combined weight of recycled aluminum, paper, glass and plastic, according to the Steel Recycling Institute. It is one of the less energy intensive items to recover due to its magnetic properties.

Steel Recycling is increasing globally, due in large part to the tremendous demand for steel throughout the rapidly developing nations of Asia. The U.S. recycling rate for steel scrap reached 76% in 2005 according to the Steel Recycling Institute. Nationwide, steel can recycling has continued its steady growth since 1998, last year reaching 63 percent, its highest level ever, with nearly 1.4 million tons recycled last year. In recent years, this durable, easy to recycle container is largely being displaced on retail shelves by lighterweight plastic and aluminum.