Canned food is one of the most common food items in our pantries, but how long after canned food expires is it still good? It’s important to know the answer to this question when stocking up on canned goods, as eating expired cans can lead to food poisoning. Fortunately, there are some general guidelines that you can use to determine how long canned foods are still safe to eat.
Food Safety Guidelines
The US Department of Agriculture recommends that all canned foods be used by the date printed on them. This is usually about two to five years from the date of manufacture.
After this date has passed, the quality and safety of the product cannot be guaranteed. While it’s possible that a can may still be safe to consume after its expiration date, it’s not recommended.
What Happens When Canned Food Expires?
Canned foods contain preservatives that help keep them fresh and safe for consumption over a certain period of time. When a can passes its expiration date, these preservatives start to break down and become less effective. As a result, bacteria can start to grow in the food, leading to spoilage and food poisoning.
Storage Tips
To ensure that your canned goods remain safe for as long as possible, it’s important to store them properly. Store cans in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Make sure that all cans are tightly sealed before storing them and check them periodically for signs of rust or bulging lids. If either of these issues are present, do not consume the product.
Conclusion:
When determining how long after canned food expires is it still good, it’s important to take into account both food safety guidelines and proper storage techniques. Canned foods should generally be used within two to five years from their manufacturing date for optimal safety and quality. However, any cans showing signs of rust or bulging lids should not be used under any circumstances.