Canned food is a convenient and cost effective way of preserving food for long periods of time. It has been a staple in the pantries of many households for decades. But, with recent recalls and concerns over BPA’s (bisphenol-A) in canned food, questions have been raised about the safety of canned food.
The truth is that canned food can be safe to eat if handled properly. The most important step is to inspect any cans prior to opening them.
Look for any signs of bulging, leaking or dents. If there are any of these signs, discard the can as it could be contaminated with bacteria. Additionally, make sure to check the expiration date on the can before opening it.
When it comes to BPA’s, there has been much debate over its safety. BPA is a chemical that is found in many plastic and metal products including some cans. It has been linked to an increased risk of certain health issues such as cancer and infertility; however, research on this subject is still ongoing and inconclusive.
In general, it’s best to avoid canned foods that contain BPA when possible. Many manufacturers now offer “BPA-free” products which are made with alternative materials that are considered safe for consumption.
In addition to inspecting cans for signs of contamination before opening them, it’s also important to follow proper storage instructions after opening them. Canned foods should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer immediately after opening them and consumed within 2-3 days. This will help reduce the risk of contamination from bacteria.
Conclusion
Overall, canned food can be safe to eat if handled properly and stored correctly. It’s best to inspect cans before opening them and discard any damaged or bulging ones as they could contain bacteria or other contaminants. Additionally, make sure to check labels for “BPA-free” products when possible and store opened foods in the refrigerator or freezer immediately after use.