Canned food is a popular option for convenient and long-lasting meals. But if the canned food is stored in a cold environment, can it freeze and bust?
The short answer is yes, canned food can freeze and bust. This is due to the fact that most canned goods are high in water content and when this water freezes, it expands and can cause the cans to burst. The sealed environment of a can does not allow for any expansion to take place as the ice forms, resulting in pressure buildup inside the container.
It’s important to note that not all canned foods are at risk of freezing and busting. Canned fruits and vegetables usually have a low water content which means they are less likely to burst when exposed to cold temperatures. Canned meats, on the other hand, tend to have higher water content levels which make them more susceptible to freezing and bursting.
It’s also important to note that while some canned goods may be safe from freezing and bursting at lower temperatures, they may still be at risk when exposed to extreme cold temperatures. It’s best practice to store your canned goods in an area with constant temperature control such as a pantry or cupboard that stays above 50°F (10°C).
If you live in an area where temperatures regularly drop below freezing, it’s best practice to store your cans away from windows or exterior walls where they might be exposed to drafts. Additionally, it’s best practice not to store your cans directly on the floor as this could expose them to additional cold air coming up from beneath them.
In conclusion, while not all canned foods will freeze and burst when exposed to cold temperatures, most high-water content cans are at risk of doing so if not stored properly. It’s important for anyone who stores their canned goods in a cold environment such as an uninsulated garage or shed, or even just near exterior walls or windows in their home, should take extra precautionary steps such as using temperature control systems or storing their cans away from drafts of cold air. Doing so will help protect your canned food from freezing and potentially bursting open due to expanding ice inside the containers. Will Canned Food Freeze and Bust? The answer is yes; however, with proper storage precautions you can avoid this happening!