How Long Does Canned Food Last After the Date?

Canned food can last for many years if stored properly. But how long does canned food last after the date printed on the can? The answer isn’t so simple, as it depends on a variety of factors.

The date printed on canned food is usually a “best by” or “sell by” date and not an expiration date. This means that the canned food should be eaten before this date in order to ensure optimal quality and flavor. After this date, the food may still be safe to eat, but it may not taste as good and its nutritional value may have decreased.

Storage Conditions

The shelf life of canned food is greatly affected by how it is stored. Food stored in a cool, dry place will last longer than food stored in hot, humid conditions.

Cans should also be kept away from direct sunlight or any other heat source, as this will reduce their shelf life. It is also important to keep cans away from chemicals or fumes, as these can react with the metal in the can and contaminate the contents.

Can Condition

The condition of the can itself can also affect its shelf life. If a can is dented or damaged in any way, it should be discarded immediately as bacteria could have contaminated its contents. If a can has begun to rust, it should also be discarded as rusty cans are more likely to leak and contaminate the food inside.

Type of Food

The type of food inside the can also has an effect on its shelf life. Foods with higher fat content (such as meat) will go bad more quickly than low-fat foods (such as vegetables). Acidic foods (such as tomatoes) will also spoil more quickly than non-acidic foods (such as beans).

Conclusion

In general, canned foods are safe to eat for up to two years after the “best by” or “sell by” date printed on them. However, this timeframe may vary depending on storage conditions, can condition and type of food inside the can. If a can is dented or rusty, it should be discarded immediately; otherwise it should still be safe to eat even after its printed date has passed.