Are you stocking up your cabinet with canned goods, prepping for the impending world economic apocalypse? Well, if the doom doesn’t come, you’ll still need to eat the food that’s taking up all that space. Just don’t think you can sit on canned goods until the end of time. Contrary to popular belief, they don’t last forever.
Commercially prepared canned food has a long shelf life. But like all good things, they eventually come to an end. The ending date just depends on the kind of food you’re talking about. This is how it works, according to the Department of Agriculture:
High-acid foods – Tomatoes, fruit and fruit juice can be stored for up to 18 months.
Low-acid foods – Vegetables and meat can be stored for two to five years.
When you go to purchase your canned goods, it’s mostly about common sense. Make sure the products aren’t dented or tampered in any way. Store canned food in a cool, dry place. Avoid cabinets over the stove, under the sink, or in a damp basement or garage. The can is protective, but it’s not a super-human shield from spoiling agents.
(via: Mayo Clinic)