How Come Canned Food Lasts So Long?

Canned food is a great way to stock up on food and enjoy it for a long period of time. Many people are curious as to why canned food can last for so long, and it is actually quite fascinating.

When food is canned, it is first sterilized by being heated up in a pressure cooker at high temperatures. This high heat eliminates any bacteria that could spoil the food and make it unsafe to eat.

Once the food has been cooked, it is then sealed into an airtight container, preventing any oxygen from getting inside.

The lack of oxygen prevents the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause food to become spoiled. The airtight container also prevents moisture from entering as well, which helps to keep the food fresh for longer periods of time.

To top it off, many canned goods are also filled with preservatives that help to extend their shelf life even further. These preservatives can be anything from sugar and salt to chemical additives such as sodium benzoate.

Conclusion:

Canned foods last so long because they are heat treated, sealed in an airtight container and often contain preservatives that help to extend their shelf life.