Here’s a Question for Utah, Can I Eat Canned Food After the Expiration Date?

If you have a pantry full of cans filling up the shelves, you probably get nervous when you see cans getting close to the expiration dates. Turns out you don't have to have a canned food buffet for the neighbors after all.

Canned Food is Sealed From Bacteria

The dates you see on canned food have more to do with the food's optimal taste than whether it will spoil. Because the food is vacuum packed and sealed it will remain sterile. There isn't any bacteria that can get in.

This means if a can isn't bulging or rusted, but looks in good condition, it won't hurt to eat it. It is recommended to always store canned foods in a cool dry place. Under your sink or in a leaky shed is not a good idea.

What Is the Average Shelf Life for a Can

Having said that canned food lasts longer than its expiration date, it is a good idea to rotate your food. Canned meats like spam will last up to 5 years before it starts to taste different.

Canned food with low acid content like vegetables and soups will taste at their peak flavor for 2 to 5 years. High acid food like fruits and tomato soup shouldn't sit longer than a year and a half.

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As long as you are moving the oldest cans forward, this rotation will take care of itself. Now, if the world goes down in flames and you find some old cans of food that are in good condition, don't be afraid to go looking for a can opener.