Even past the ‘Best By’ date, many canned goods remain safe to eat. Use this checklist:
Look: Check for bulging lids, rust, dents (especially on seams), or leakage.
Smell: Any sour, metallic, or rotten odors? Discard it.
Taste: If the can looks and smells fine, taste a small amount. If it tastes off, don’t eat it.
Storage Matters: How to Extend the Life of Your Food
The longevity of canned food depends heavily on how it’s stored:
Temperature: Store in a cool (50–70°F), dry place.
Humidity: Keep cans away from damp basements or warm garages.
Light: Avoid direct sunlight to prevent degradation of flavor and nutrients.
Proper storage can help many canned foods last far beyond their suggested dates.
The Environmental and Economic Cost of Food Waste
Throwing away food that’s still safe not only hits your wallet but also harms the environment. In the U.S., over 30% of all food is wasted annually, contributing to excess landfill use and greenhouse gas emissions. Misinterpreting date labels plays a major role in this.