The Truth About Expired Canned Food

Forgotten Cans in the Pantry

Most kitchens have at least one forgotten can of beans, soup, or vegetables sitting in the back of the pantry. When people notice the printed date has passed, the instinct is to toss it. But is that really necessary?

What Expiration Dates Really Mean

The first thing to know: most dates on canned food labels refer to quality, not safety.

“Best By” or “Best Before” – Indicates peak flavor and texture.
“Use By” – Common on perishable foods like dairy or meat. It marks best quality, not a hard safety deadline.

So, if your canned soup is “past date,” don’t panic. It could still be safe.

Shelf Life of Canned Foods

When stored properly—in a cool, dry place away from sunlight—canned foods last far beyond their printed date.

High-acid foods (tomatoes, pineapple, citrus): Best within 12–18 months.
Low-acid foods (beans, corn, canned meats): Can last 3–5 years, sometimes longer.

USDA tip: If the can is intact and undamaged, food may remain safe indefinitely. The taste or texture might decline, but the safety won’t vanish overnight.

Signs a Can Is Unsafe

The printed date doesn’t guarantee spoilage, but certain warning signs do. Discard any can that shows:

Bulging lid or body — may indicate bacterial growth, like botulism.
Leaks or rust around seams — possible broken seal.
Deep dents on edges or seams — compromised integrity.
Odd smell, discoloration, or spurting liquid when opened.

If you notice any of these, don’t taste the food. Just throw it away safely.

Why It Matters

Every year, millions of tons of food are wasted because of confusion over expiration dates. This leads to:

Wasted money
Unnecessary food waste
Environmental harm
Higher food insecurity

By understanding the facts, you can stretch your grocery budget, reduce waste, and use your food storage more effectively.

The Bottom Line

Canned foods are pantry staples for a reason. They’re resilient, affordable, and often safe years past their date.

Before throwing out a can, ask:

Is it dented, rusted, bulging, or leaking?
Does it look or smell off when opened?

If not, it may still be perfectly safe—and a budget-friendly meal ready to serve.

Next time you find a dusty can at the back of your pantry, check carefully before tossing it. One smart choice could save food, money, and even help the environment.