Is It OK to Eat Canned Food Past the Expiration Date?

It is not unheard of for people to find canned food in their pantry that has exceeded its “best before” date. Many worry about the safety of eating canned food that has gone past its expiration date. The truth is, it is generally safe to do so, though there may be a few exceptions.

The expiration date on a can of food is a manufacturer’s best guess as to the shelf life of the product. A product may still be safe to eat long after this date, as long as it has been stored properly and is in good condition. For example, canned vegetables or fruits that have been stored in a cool, dark place will be safe to eat even if they are several years past the expiration date.

When examining canned food for safety, look out for signs of spoilage such as dents, bulging lids or any leaking liquid. These are all indications that bacteria have entered the can and caused spoilage. Discard any cans with these signs and do not consume them.

Taste should also be taken into consideration when determining whether or not expired canned foods are safe to eat. If the food tastes off or smells bad, it should not be consumed. Additionally, if mold is present on the surface of the food, discard it immediately.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, it is usually safe to eat canned foods past their expiration dates if they have been stored properly and show no signs of spoilage. However, taste and smell should always be taken into account before consuming any expired foods.