Can I Keep Canned Food in the Car?

Canned food is a convenient option for people on the go, but when it comes to keeping it in your car, there are some important considerations to make. While it may seem like a good idea to keep canned goods in the car, they can be at risk of spoiling or becoming unsafe to eat if not stored properly.

Temperature Considerations

Canned goods are generally shelf-stable, but they do require special storage conditions to remain safe for consumption. Cans should be kept in temperatures between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Anything above that can cause the cans to expand and bulge, which could lead to spoilage and bacteria growth. If left in temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit for too long, the contents of the cans may freeze and expand, damaging the integrity of the can itself.

Light Exposure

Canned goods should also be kept away from direct sunlight as this can cause them to overheat and spoil much faster than if they were stored in a cooler environment. If you’re keeping canned food in your car during the summer months, it’s important to keep it out of direct sunlight or else you risk food poisoning or other illness-causing bacteria forming inside of the cans.

Rotating Stock

If you plan on keeping canned goods in your car for any length of time, it’s important to rotate out older cans with newer ones every few months. This will help ensure that your canned goods remain safe to eat by replacing any cans that may have gone bad due to improper storage conditions.

Conclusion
While keeping canned food in your car is possible with proper precautions taken, it is not always recommended due to temperature fluctuations and potential contamination risks present when storing foods this way. It is best practice for those who choose to store canned food in their cars on a regular basis rotate out their stock every few months for maximum safety and freshness.