How Long Does Canned Food Last Past the Expiration Date?

Canned foods are a great shelf-stable option for anyone looking to have a steady supply of food in the house. Canned goods can last for years, but eventually they will expire and need to be thrown away. But how long can canned goods last past the expiration date?

The short answer is that it depends on the product. Generally speaking, canned goods are safe to eat for up to two years past the expiration date, but this can vary depending on the type of food and how it was stored.

For instance, canned vegetables typically last longer than canned fruits or meats. Canned fruits and vegetables that have been stored in a cool, dry place (such as a pantry or basement) may be safe to eat for up to three years past their expiration date.

Canned meats such as tuna, salmon, and chicken tend to be more perishable than other types of canned foods and should be consumed within one year of the expiration date. Furthermore, cans of these products should never be opened if they appear to be bulging or leaking due to an increased risk of contamination from bacteria such as Botulism or Salmonella.

It is important to remember that even if a can looks okay and hasn’t expired yet, it may still contain bacteria that could make you sick if consumed. Therefore, it is best practice to smell and taste test any food before consuming it in order to determine its safety and edibility. Additionally, any cans with dents or bulges should be thrown away immediately regardless of their expiration date as these could indicate a serious health hazard.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, canned foods are generally safe to eat for up two years past their expiration dates depending on what type of food is inside them. It is important to remember that any cans that appear damaged should not be opened and they should instead be thrown away immediately in order to avoid any potential contamination from bacteria such as Botulism or Salmonella.