There is a common misconception that all canned food must be refrigerated after opening. This is not true and is actually dangerous in some cases.
Canned food that has been opened should only be refrigerated if it contains perishable ingredients, such as dairy or eggs. All other canned goods should be kept at room temperature and can be safely consumed without the need for refrigeration.
Canned food is typically cooked during the canning process, which helps to preserve it, and this makes it safe to store at room temperature. The high temperature used to cook the contents of the can kills any bacteria or germs that may have been present in the food prior to being canned.
Once the lid of a can is opened, however, it should be stored in a way that prevents contamination from airborne bacteria or other sources.
If you do choose to store opened canned food in the refrigerator, make sure to keep it covered or sealed tightly so as not to contaminate other items stored in your fridge. It’s also important not to leave any open cans out on a countertop for more than two hours because this increases the risk of bacterial contamination from outside sources.
When it comes down to it, it’s best practice not to put open canned food in the fridge unless absolutely necessary. If you decide to do so, always remember to cover and seal tightly before placing inside your refrigerator.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, open cans of food should generally not be placed in a refrigerator unless they contain perishable ingredients like dairy or eggs. Otherwise, these foods should remain at room temperature and consumed within two hours of being opened for optimal safety.