Hi Karin,
Thanks for taking the time to review our product. Keeping our environment in mind, the new SIMPLE POUR lids are 100% recycled plastic and the new lid does not affect the chemicals in the paint at all. The new spout was made to help make it more convenient to pour the paint into a tray. However, the paint can still be used the traditional way and removed like normal. That way, if you want to paint directly out of the container with your brush, you certainly can. If you'd like, feel free to reach out directly to our Customer Care Department for any questions or concerns you might have. Enjoy the rest of your day, and thanks again for your feedback - Vince