Is It Safe to Put Canned Food in the Refrigerator?

Canned food is a great convenience for busy people, but it is important to know how to store it properly. When it comes to refrigerating canned food, the answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. Some types of canned food can be safely stored in the refrigerator, while others should be kept at room temperature.

Canned fruits and vegetables are generally safe to store in the refrigerator. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), fruits and vegetables should be refrigerated within two hours of opening, and they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. In addition, canned fruit juices and tomato sauces should also be stored in the refrigerator.

Canned meats and fish are a different story. The USDA recommends that these items should not be refrigerated before or after opening because they have a high fat content which can become rancid when exposed to cold temperatures.

If you plan on eating canned meats or fish within two days of opening them, then they can be safely stored at room temperature. Otherwise, it is best to discard them after two days.

Conclusion:

Overall, whether or not it is safe to put canned food in the refrigerator depends on what type of food it is. Fruits and vegetables as well as fruit juices and tomato sauces should all be stored in the refrigerator after being opened. On the other hand, canned meats and fish should not be refrigerated before or after opening, but should instead be discarded after two days if not eaten sooner.