How Long Is Canned Food Shelf Life Good For?

Canned food is an excellent way to store food for a long period of time. It is relatively inexpensive, requires no refrigeration, and can be stored safely in many conditions. But when it comes to canned food shelf life, how long should it be kept before it is no longer safe to eat?

The length of time that canned food can be stored depends on the type of product and how it was processed. Generally speaking, canned food has a shelf life of two to five years. This includes high-acid foods like tomato-based products, fruits, and pickles; low-acid foods such as vegetables and meats; and other items like soups, stews, and gravies.

Canned goods should always be inspected for signs of spoilage before eating them. Look for bulging lids or any discoloration or odor that could indicate spoilage.

If the can is damaged in any way (dented, rusting, etc. ), discard it immediately since bacteria could have entered through the damaged area.

When storing canned goods at home, make sure they are stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This will help preserve their shelf life for longer periods of time. Additionally, cans should not be stacked too high since this could cause them to crush each other.

It is important to note that even with proper storage and handling techniques, there may still come a time when canned food needs to be discarded due to age or spoilage. This is especially true if the cans have been opened or are more than five years old.

Conclusion:

Canned food has an average shelf life of two to five years when properly stored and handled. However, inspect all cans before eating them for signs of spoilage or damage as these could indicate that the food has gone bad already. Discard any cans that show signs of damage or are more than five years old for safety’s sake.