How Do You Package Canned Food?

Canned food is a convenient and affordable way to stock up on pantry staples. Canned fruits, vegetables, meats, fish and soups are just some of the types of food available in cans. While canned food is easy to find and prepare, it’s important to package it correctly if you want it to last.

Choose the Right Container
The type of container you choose can make a big difference in how long your canned food lasts. Sturdy metal cans designed specifically for storing food are best as they won’t break or leak. Plastic containers will also work but should be checked regularly for cracks or signs of wear and tear that could lead to leakage or contamination.

Sterilize Containers
Before filling your containers with canned food, sterilize them first. You can easily do this by washing them in hot soapy water and then rinsing them with boiling water. This will help keep any bacteria from growing on the containers which could lead to spoilage of your canned goods.

Label Containers
Once your containers are clean and sterilized, label them with the date they were filled and what type of food they contain. This will help you know when the food needs to be used by and which containers hold which types of items. It’s a good idea to store cans in an area where they won’t be exposed to extreme temperatures or light, such as a pantry or cupboard shelf, as this can affect their shelf life.

Fill Containers
When filling your cans, use a funnel if necessary so that you don’t get any spills or waste any of the contents. Make sure the lid fits securely on the container before placing it into storage; otherwise air may get inside leading to spoilage or contamination of the product inside.

Store Containers
Once filled, store your cans in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as stoves or radiators. Keep an eye on expiration dates if applicable and discard any cans that have been opened for more than two weeks since bacteria can start growing inside at that point making it unsafe to consume the contents anymore.

Conclusion

Properly packaging canned food is essential for keeping it safe and fresh for an extended period of time. Choosing sturdy metal or plastic containers that have been sterilized beforehand is key, as well as labeling them with what type of product they contain and when they were filled so that you know when it needs to be thrown out due to spoilage or contamination concerns. Lastly, store them in cool dry places away from direct sunlight and heat sources so that their shelf life isn’t compromised over time due to extreme temperatures or light exposure.