Truth About Expired Canned Food …How Long Is It Really Safe

Expired Canned Food: Safety Tips and What to Check

(How to Tell If That Old Can in Your Pantry Is Still Safe to Eat)

We’ve all been there — digging through the back of the pantry, only to find a dusty can of soup, beans, or peaches that expired a year (or three) ago. You pause, turn it over in your hands, and wonder: “Is this still safe to eat?”

Canned food is famous for its long shelf life, but long doesn’t mean forever. While the date on the can might not always spell danger, there are key signs and safety checks you should never ignore.

Let’s take a closer look at what happens when canned food expires, what’s safe, and what’s not.

1. Understanding the Dates on Canned Food
Before tossing anything out, it’s important to understand what those printed dates actually mean.

Most canned goods display one of the following:

“Best By” or “Best Before” — This indicates quality, not safety. The food may lose flavor or texture after this date but isn’t necessarily unsafe.
“Use By” — This suggests the manufacturer’s recommendation for peak safety and quality.
“Sell By” — A guide for retailers, not consumers.
So, if your can of tomato soup says “Best By May 2022,” it doesn’t automatically mean it’s spoiled in 2025. But it does mean you should inspect it carefully before deciding to eat it.

2. The Science Behind Canned Food Shelf Life
Canning works by heating food to kill bacteria and sealing it in an airtight container to prevent contamination. When done properly, this process can preserve food for years.