Expiration dates are an important indicator of food safety, and when it comes to canned goods, they should not be taken lightly. Canned foods are typically considered shelf-stable, meaning they last for months or years without going bad. But even though canned foods can last a long time, expiration dates still matter.
What Are Expiration Dates? Expiration dates are the date a manufacturer recommends that you use the product by. This date is an indication that the product may begin to spoil or lose its quality and should be thrown away after this date has passed. Although there is no regulation requiring expiration dates on canned goods in the United States, many manufacturers list them as a courtesy to customers.
Do Expiration Dates Really Matter? Yes, expiration dates do matter when it comes to canned goods. While canned foods are shelf-stable and can last for months or years beyond the expiration date, they can still spoil if they’re exposed to extreme temperatures or if they become contaminated with bacteria from unclean hands or utensils. Additionally, over time canned goods will lose their nutritional value and flavor due to oxidation and other chemical changes that occur with age.
How Can You Tell If Canned Goods Have Gone Bad? If you’re uncertain about whether a canned food has gone bad, there are several signs you can look for:
- The can is bulging or leaking.
- The can has rust on it.
- The food has an off odor.
- The food looks discolored.
If any of these signs are present, discard the food immediately as it could be unsafe to consume.
Conclusion: In conclusion, expiration dates do matter when it comes to canned goods. While these products can last for months or years beyond their labeled date of expiration, they may become contaminated with bacteria over time or lose their nutritional value and flavor due to oxidation. Paying attention to your cans’ expiration dates and looking out for signs of spoilage will help ensure that your food is safe to eat.