Having a pantry stocked with canned goods can be a real lifesaver when we're in need of a quick meal.
Whether it's canned tomatoes, beans, or vegetables like green beans and corn, these foods are affordable and incredibly versatile.
But have you ever wondered how long canned food truly lasts? And more importantly, is it safe to eat canned food past its expiration date? Let's find into the facts to put your mind at ease and help you make the most out of your pantry staples!
How Long Can Canned Food Be Stored?
The truth about canned food might surprise you. The USDA has stated that most shelf-stable canned foods, when kept in good condition, can last indefinitely. This means that as long as the can is not rusted, dented, or swollen, you're probably good to go.
However, while they might be safe to eat, their taste and texture may not be as fresh as when you first bought them. Foods with higher acidity, like tomatoes and citrus-based products, tend to have a shorter shelf life, typically around 12 to 18 months. Meanwhile, low-acid canned foods, such as meats and vegetables, can last 2 to 5 years when unopened.
What Do Expiration Dates Really Mean?
Many of us rely on the use-by or best-by dates on canned food labels to determine when it's time to toss out those cans. However, it's important to know that these dates are meant for quality, not safety. Over time, canned food may lose some of its flavor and nutritional value, but it won't automatically spoil.
Is It Safe to Eat Canned Food After the Expiration Date?
Canned foods are commercially sterilized, and the vacuum seal ensures that no bacteria can enter the can, making it unlikely for the food to spoil. However, it's important to always inspect the cans before eating. If the can is bulging, rusted, leaking, or dented, it's best to avoid it.
How to Store Canned Food Properly
To get the most out of your canned food, proper storage is essential. Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from temperature extremes like high heat or freezing cold. Avoid storing canned goods under the sink, beside the stove, or in damp areas like basements or garages.
How Long Does Canned Food Last After Opening?
Once you've opened a can, it's a different story. Unused portions of canned food should be transferred to a separate glass or plastic container for refrigeration. For best quality, here's how long your favorite canned foods will last once opened:
• Canned Meat: 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator
• Low Acid Foods (like meats, vegetables, and soups): 3 to 4 days
• High Acid Foods (like tomatoes and fruit): 5 to 7 days
Homemade Canned Goods
If you're canning food at home, these will last for up to a year on the shelf. Remember, even if they appear fine, always boil home-canned foods before eating them—10 minutes for high-acid foods and 20 minutes for low-acid foods. Once opened, they should be used within 3 to 4 days.
Canned food can be a staple in our kitchen, offering convenience and long shelf life. But knowing how to store it and how long it lasts is key to enjoying it at its best.
So, next time you check your pantry, don't rush to toss out that can of beans just because it's past the date. You just might be able to enjoy it a little longer!
How Does Canned Food Last So Long? | Earth Science
Video by BBC Earth Science
