Can You Store Canned Food in Outdoor Shed?

Canned food is a great way to store food for long periods of time, but it can be tricky to know where to store it. With the right preparation, however, it is possible to store canned food in an outdoor shed. There are several things that should be kept in mind when attempting this.

Temperature: Canned food should not be stored in temperatures below freezing, as this can cause the cans to expand and potentially break. It’s also important that temperatures don’t exceed 120°F (49°C), as this can cause the cans to deform and their seals to break. When storing canned food outside, it’s important to make sure that temperatures are consistently maintained within these limits.

Humidity: Humidity levels also affect how well canned food stores. High humidity levels can cause cans to rust and spoil the contents inside. To avoid this, make sure that the shed has good ventilation and is not too damp or humid.

Light: Light exposure can also damage canned food, so it’s important that your shed has good insulation from light sources. If possible, choose a spot for your shed that does not get direct sunlight exposure during the day.

Pest Control: When storing canned food outside, it’s important to be aware of pests such as rodents or insects. Make sure that any cracks or gaps in your shed are sealed shut with caulk or other materials so they cannot enter. Additionally, consider using metal shelving units rather than wood ones since these are more resistant to pests.

Labeling: Finally, it’s always a good idea to label each can with what type of food is inside and when it was opened/canned. This way you will always know which cans need to be used first and which ones have been stored for longer periods of time.

In conclusion, storing canned foods in an outdoor shed is possible if done properly. Be aware of temperature fluctuations, humidity levels, light exposure and pest control when choosing where to store your cans for long-term storage.