What Should You Avoid When Buying Canned Food?

Canned food can be a convenient and cost-effective way to stock up on pantry staples, but not all canned foods are created equal. There are certain things to look out for when purchasing canned food that can help ensure you get the most for your money and make the healthiest choices possible.

When buying canned food, it’s important to read the label carefully. The ingredient list should be short and easy to understand.

Many canned vegetables contain added sodium, so look for options labeled “low-sodium” or “no salt added” if you want to reduce your sodium intake. Canned fruits should also not have added sugars, so opt for those labeled “unsweetened” or “in juice” instead of those in syrup.

The type of packaging can also give you an indication of the quality of the product. Canned food that comes in glass jars is generally considered to be of higher quality than those in plastic or metal cans because glass does not leach chemicals into the food like other materials do. It is also important to check for signs of rust or dents in cans as these can indicate that they have been damaged and may contain harmful bacteria.

In addition, it is important to avoid buying canned foods with long expiration dates as these may contain preservatives that could be harmful to your health. Canned goods with shorter expiration dates are generally fresher and healthier.

Conclusion:

When buying canned food, it is important to read labels carefully and avoid items with added salt or sugar, long expiration dates, and cans that show signs of rust or dents. Opting for glass jars instead of plastic or metal cans will also help ensure a higher quality product. By following these tips, you can be sure to make the healthiest choices when purchasing canned goods.