It is a common misconception that home canned food can last forever and many people are surprised when they find out that this is not the case. Home canned food does not have the same shelf life as commercially processed canned goods, and so it is important to know how long it will last.
According to the National Center for Home Food Preservation, home-canned foods can last up to one year if they are stored in a cool, dry place. This assumes that the cans are free of any defects, such as dents or rust, and that they have been properly sealed and processed according to their guidelines.
After one year, the quality of the food will begin to decline. The flavor and texture of the food may be altered and bacteria growth can become an issue if not taken care of properly.
The Storage Conditions Matter
It is important to store home-canned foods in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The temperature should be between 50°F – 70°F (10°C – 21°C). Storing cans above this temperature range (e.g., in an attic or garage) can cause spoilage even within a year’s time.
Labeling Is Important
In order to keep track of your canned goods, it is important to label each jar with the date it was canned as well as what type of food is inside. This will help you keep track of when it was made and how long it has been stored.
Safe Practices Are Essential
It is also important to practice safe handling practices when dealing with home-canned foods. Never consume any home-canned product that has a bulging lid or if there are any signs of spoilage or leakage from the can itself.
Know When To Throw It Out
If you notice any changes in color, odor or taste in your home-canned foods then discard them immediately. These could all be signs of spoilage and should not be consumed under any circumstances.
Conclusion:
How Long Does Home Canned Food Really Last?
Home-canned foods can last up to one year when stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight at temperatures between 50°F – 70°F (10°C – 21°C). After one year, the quality of the food will begin to decline so it is important to label each jar with its date and contents for tracking purposes.