Canned food is a convenient and budget-friendly option for storing food safely, offering a wide variety of choices from tuna to tomatoes. They’re a staple in well-stocked pantries, ideal for emergencies and quick meals. But with their extended shelf life, it’s natural to wonder: Does Canned Food Go Bad? Let’s delve into the longevity of canned goods and how to properly store them to prevent spoilage.
Decoding Dates on Canned Foods
It’s important to understand that the dates on canned goods primarily indicate quality, not safety.
Mitzi Baum, MSc, a food safety instructor at Michigan State University and CEO of STOP Foodborne Illness, explains that various dates and numbers may appear on canned foods, including the manufacturing date, facility information, lot code, and “use by” or “sell by” date.
These “use by” and “sell by” dates are usually related to the product’s peak flavor and freshness. Baum notes that after these dates, the manufacturer cannot guarantee the product will be at its optimal taste.
Canned Food Shelf Life: How Long Does It Really Last?
Canned food is known for its long shelf life. According to food scientist Bryan Quoc Le, Ph.D., canned food can last indefinitely, or at least several years beyond the date on the label. High-acid foods, like tomatoes, generally maintain their quality for about 18 months past the “use by” or “sell by” date. Low-acid foods, such as meat, beans, and vegetables, can remain at peak quality for two to five years.
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When to Discard Canned Food
Maintaining the integrity of the can is vital for preserving the quality and safety of its contents. Here’s what to look for when inspecting your canned goods:
- Dents: The USDA advises against consuming food from cans that are leaking, bulging, severely dented, punctured, or rusted.
- Rust: Light surface rust is usually not a problem. Baum suggests that if you can wipe the rust off with a wet cloth, the food inside is likely safe. However, if the rust is extensive and doesn’t wipe off, the can should be discarded. Refer to the Packaged and Canned Food Defect Guideline by the Association of Food and Drug Officials for visual examples to help determine if a dented or rusted can is safe.
- Unusual Smells: If the canned food has an off-putting odor or spurts liquid upon opening, it should be thrown away.
The Risk of Botulism
Deformations in cans can create microscopic openings, allowing small amounts of oxygen to enter. Le explains that this can create an environment where botulinum spores can develop, leading to the growth of Clostridium botulinum bacteria. Even a tiny amount of oxygen can enable Clostridium botulinum to release botulinum toxin, a rare but serious neurotoxin that causes botulism.
Best Practices for Storing Canned Food
Proper storage is crucial for keeping canned food in good condition. Le recommends storing canned goods in a cool, dry place, as warmth and moisture can accelerate damage and rusting. The U.S. Department of Agriculture advises against storing canned goods in areas like under the sink, above the stove, or in damp basements. Avoid exposing canned goods to extreme temperatures, as this can increase the risk of spoilage or ruptured cans.
Home-Canned Goods: A Different Story
Baum states that properly processed home-canned goods can last for years. While the quality and nutritional value may decrease over time, the food should remain safe to eat. However, if the lid of a home-canned item pops or bulges, it should be discarded. This indicates that bacteria not killed during processing have grown and released gases, causing the lid to pop or expand.
Ultimately, while canned food offers an impressive shelf life, it’s essential to be vigilant about storage conditions and can integrity. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your canned goods remain a safe and reliable part of your pantry.
