Canned food is a convenient and cost-effective way to stock up on non-perishable items. But how long is canned food good past expiration? While expiration dates are important indicators of food quality, canned foods can typically be safely consumed several months after the date on the label.
Canned foods are processed and sealed tightly so that bacteria cannot enter the package and cause spoilage. This means that if stored in a cool, dark place, canned goods will typically remain safe to eat for years after their labeled expiration date. In addition to the expiration date, look for signs of spoilage or rust when evaluating the safety of canned goods.
How Long Is Canned Food Good Past Expiration?
The United States Department of Agriculture recommends that consumers discard any cans that are rusted, bulging, leaking or severely dented. These signs indicate degradation in the can itself and can indicate contamination of the food inside.
Cans with rust spots can also be a sign that bacteria may have entered the package and caused spoilage. If there is no visible damage to the container or contents, canned goods should be safe to consume up to 12 months after their expiration date.
When In Doubt, Throw It Out.
Even if there are no visible signs of spoilage or contamination, it’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to consuming expired foods. Storing canned goods in cool and dry areas will help them retain freshness longer and reduce your risk of consuming expired foods.
Conclusion: Canned food is often safe for consumption several months past its labeled expiration date if stored properly and there are no visible signs of spoilage or contamination. However, it’s always best practice to err on the side of caution when it comes to consuming expired foods and discard any cans that show signs of rusting or bulging.