PROTECTIVE SEAL FOR CANS

A protective seal for beverage cans, etc. completely covers and seals the mouth contact area of the can, thereby protecting that area from contamination. The present seal comprises a thin, durable, impervious sheet applied to the top of the can surrounding the opening area, extending down the upper side of the can adjacent the top opening area for a short distance to cover the mouth contact area of the can. The seal is peripherally sealed to the can surface by a narrow strip of food grade adhesive. The tab attachment extension of the seal may include bushings, washers, etc. to provide clearance for the majority of the seal to pivot between the pop tab lever and can top, and/or may include a circumferential weakening line about the pop tab rivet to allow the majority of the seal to shear circumferentially to pivot about the captured rivet attachment portion thereof.