My family gave me a bag of kitchen stuff for my apartment, and this was in it. It’s plastic, and the bottom has a little scoop. What is it for?
Answer: This is a Pop + Scoop cat food can opener.
What is a Can Strainer (or Can Colander)?
A can strainer or can colander is a small kitchen device designed to fit over or into an open can to drain its liquid content efficiently. This could be water, brine, oil, syrup, or any other preserving liquid that canned goods often contain.
Unlike traditional colanders or strainers, which are usually too large and messy to handle small quantities from cans, can strainers are specifically shaped to match standard can sizes, allowing for quick and spill-free draining.
How Does a Can Strainer Work?
The concept is simple but smart:
- Open the can as usual, completely removing the lid.
- Place the can strainer over the open can. Some models fit over the top, while others are designed to insert just inside the rim.
- Invert the can over the sink or bowl. The holes in the strainer allow the liquid to flow out while keeping the contents safely inside.
- Remove and discard the liquid, then proceed with your recipe.
This method eliminates the need for transferring contents to a large strainer, minimizes waste, and keeps the food cleaner and more intact.
Common Uses of a Can Strainer
Can strainers are versatile tools that can be used in various culinary situations. Here are the most popular ways they’re used:
1. Draining Canned Tuna or Salmon
These proteins are often packed in oil or water. A can strainer helps remove the excess liquid quickly without making a mess or having your hands smell like fish.
2. Rinsing Canned Beans or Legumes
Beans like chickpeas, kidney beans, or black beans are typically preserved in a salty brine. Draining and rinsing them improves flavor and reduces sodium.
3. Removing Syrup from Canned Fruits
Canned peaches, pears, or pineapples often come in heavy syrup. A can strainer makes it easy to keep just the fruit and discard the sugary liquid.
4. Straining Vegetables
Canned corn, peas, or carrots can be strained with no hassle, avoiding soggy vegetables and ensuring better texture for salads or stir-fries.
Types of Can Strainers
Can strainers come in various styles, materials, and designs. Here are a few common types:
• Over-the-Top Can Strainers
These sit directly on top of the opened can. They are usually circular with small draining holes and are great for one-handed use.
• Insert-Style Can Strainers
These are slightly smaller in diameter and fit inside the can’s opening. They are ideal for holding the food inside even when the can is fully inverted.
• Universal Fit Strainers
Adjustable or flexible models are designed to fit a range of can sizes, which is especially handy if you use both small (5 oz) and large (28 oz) cans.
• BPA-Free Plastic or Silicone Models
Lightweight, dishwasher-safe, and rust-proof, these are popular in modern kitchens.
• Stainless Steel Can Strainers
Durable and long-lasting, stainless steel versions are more resistant to staining and retain their shape over time.
Benefits of Using a Can Strainer
Why should you add a can strainer to your kitchen drawer? Here are several advantages:
✅ Reduces Mess
Avoid the spills that come from trying to tilt a can over a sink or using your hand as a makeshift barrier.
✅ Improves Food Quality
By effectively draining brine, oil, or syrup, you can enhance the flavor and texture of canned goods.
✅ Saves Time
With one simple motion, you can drain a can and move straight to cooking — no need to dirty another dish.
✅ More Hygienic
Your food stays inside the can, and your hands don’t have to touch the contents, reducing the risk of contamination.
✅ Space-Saving
Small and compact, can strainers are easy to store in a utensil drawer or even hang on a hook.
How to Choose the Best Can Strainer
When shopping for a can strainer, consider these features:
- Size Compatibility: Make sure it fits the cans you use most frequently.
- Material: Look for BPA-free plastic, food-grade silicone, or stainless steel.
- Ease of Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe options save time and effort.
- Durability: Choose a sturdy build that won’t warp or crack over time.
- Ergonomics: Look for grip-friendly handles or thumb rests for easier use.
Are There Alternatives?
Yes, you could technically use a traditional mesh strainer or colander, but these aren’t optimized for small canned contents. Many people also use the removed can lid or the back of a spoon to hold food back while draining — but this method is less hygienic and more prone to spills or cuts.
A purpose-built can strainer is safer, cleaner, and far more efficient.
Final Thoughts
The can strainer or can colander may seem like a minor kitchen tool, but its usefulness can’t be overstated. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or a gourmet dish, it simplifies the process of draining canned foods, reduces mess, and keeps your food cleaner.
If you frequently use canned goods in your cooking, investing in a good-quality can strainer will not only save time but also improve the taste and presentation of your meals.