Does Canned Food Go Bad in a Hot Car?

Canned food can potentially go bad if left in a hot car for an extended period of time. While canned food is designed to be shelf-stable, it can still spoil if temperatures rise too high. This can cause the food to taste off or even become unsafe for consumption.

When it comes to canned foods, the temperature of the environment can play a huge role in its shelf life. The hotter the environment, the quicker the food will go bad.

The US Department of Agriculture recommends that people should never store any food product at temperatures above 40°F (4°C) or below 0°F (-18°C). If your car is left in direct sunlight, temperatures inside can get much higher than this and cause your canned food to spoil quickly.

In addition, leaving cans in a hot car can also increase their chances of bursting open due to pressure buildup from heat expansion. When this happens, it’s not just unsafe to eat—it’s also a huge mess!

The best way to prevent canned food from going bad in a hot car is to keep it cool and dry at all times. If you plan on taking any canned goods with you on a road trip, make sure they are stored in an insulated cooler or bag that will keep them at optimal temperatures for as long as possible. Additionally, it’s important to check expiration dates on all cans before purchasing them and make sure they won’t expire during your trip.

Conclusion:

It’s clear that canned food can go bad if exposed to high temperatures for too long. To ensure that your canned goods stay safe and tasty, keep them out of direct sunlight and store them in an insulated cooler or bag when taking them with you on trips.