Can You Eat Canned Food That’s Been in the Heat?

Canned foods are an essential part of any pantry and can provide a convenient source of nutrition. But what happens when canned food is exposed to higher temperatures? Can you still eat it?

The short answer is yes, you can usually eat canned food that has been exposed to some heat. Cans are designed to protect the food inside from both air and moisture, which means that the contents remain safe for consumption. However, if the can has been exposed to extremely high temperatures or direct sunlight for an extended period of time, then its contents may be compromised.

When a can of food is heated up too much, it can cause a chemical reaction called hydrolysis. This causes the proteins in the food to break down, releasing toxins that could make you sick.

Additionally, bacteria will start to grow in the food more quickly when it’s been heated up. So if your canned food has been subjected to extreme heat or sunlight for an extended period of time, then it’s best not to eat it.

Signs That Canned Food Has Been Exposed To Heat

If you suspect that your canned food may have been subjected to too much heat, here are some signs that might indicate as much:

  • The can is swollen or misshapen.
  • The lid is bulging or dented.
  • There is liquid seeping out of the can.
  • The expiration date has passed.

If any of these signs are present on your cans of food, then it’s best not to eat them. You should also check the temperature of your pantry periodically with a thermometer and avoid storing cans in direct sunlight or other hot areas.

Additionally, avoid purchasing cans from stores that have poor temperature control during storage and transport.

Conclusion

In conclusion, eating canned food that’s been in the heat isn’t always safe. If the can shows signs of swelling or dents and if it’s past its expiration date then there’s a good chance that its contents have been compromised by extreme temperatures and should be discarded before consumption.