Does Canned Food Go Bad in Hot Temperatures?

Canned food is a popular and convenient way to stock up on meals and snacks. But when temperatures reach the upper limits, it’s important to know if canned food can go bad in hot temperatures.

What Happens When Canned Food Gets Too Hot?
Canned food can be stored at room temperature for up to a year, but it’s important to keep it away from extreme temperatures. If canned food becomes too hot, the metal container can expand and cause the seal to break. This will allow bacteria and air into the can, which can lead to spoilage.

What Temperature Is Too Hot?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture states that canned goods should not be stored in temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.7 Celsius). If the temperature outside is forecasted to go above or near this temperature, it’s best to move your canned goods somewhere cooler or indoors where they won’t be exposed to heat for long periods of time.

How Long Does Canned Food Last in Hot Temperatures?
If you accidentally leave your cans in a hot car on a summer day, you don’t have to worry too much about them spoiling right away; canned goods will usually last for several hours before they need to be moved somewhere cooler. However, if the temperature exceeds 100°F (37°C) for more than two hours, then you should discard the cans as they may have gone bad due to being exposed to high heat.

Conclusion: In conclusion, while canned food is usually safe if stored at room temperature for up to a year, it should not be kept in hot temperatures as this can cause the metal container to expand and break its seal, allowing bacteria and air inside which would cause spoilage of the product. The U.S Department of Agriculture recommends that canned goods should not be stored in temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37 Celsius). If these conditions are met for more than two hours then it is best discard those cans as they may have gone bad due to being exposed too much heat.