How Does Canned Food Not Go Bad?

Canned food is a great way to store food for a long period of time without the worry of it going bad. This is because canned food has been heated and sealed in an air-tight container, which makes it shelf stable for a long period of time.

The process of canning food involves heating the contents to a very high temperature, and then sealing the container with an air-tight lid. This process kills any bacteria or microorganisms in the food, making it safe to eat for an extended period of time.

The heat used in canning also helps to remove air from the container. Air is one of the main causes of food spoilage as it encourages bacteria and other organisms to grow. By removing air from the container, canned foods are able to maintain their freshness without risk of contamination.

In addition to heat and lack of oxygen, canned foods also contain preservatives that help maintain their quality. These preservatives are added during the canning process and help prevent bacteria from growing even further. Common preservatives found in canned foods include citric acid, sodium benzoate, and potassium sorbate.

Canned Food Shelf Life

The shelf life of canned foods varies depending on what type it is, but most typically last around two years when stored properly. Canned fruits tend to last up to 18 months while vegetables usually last around 12 months. It’s important to note that once a can has been opened, its shelf life decreases drastically so it’s best consumed within 3-4 days.

Conclusion

Canned foods are able to stay edible for extended periods due to their being heated and sealed in an air-tight container which kills any bacteria or microorganisms present inside, removes oxygen which encourages spoilage, and includes preservatives that further help protect against contamination. With proper storage methods, most canned foods will last up two years before needing replacement.