The Real Meaning Behind Expiration Dates
Food labeling is confusing by design. Terms like “Best By,” “Best Before,” and “Use By” aren’t standardized expiration dates but manufacturer recommendations about peak quality.
- “Best By” or “Best Before” indicates the period when the product tastes and looks its best. After that date, the flavor or texture might decline slightly, but it’s still safe to eat.
- “Use By” is generally reserved for perishable items like milk, deli meat, or fresh juices, where spoilage can happen faster. Even then, it’s about quality, not necessarily safety.
In the case of canned goods, these labels serve more as marketing tools than warnings. Canned food doesn’t suddenly become dangerous the day after its printed date. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), properly stored canned food can remain safe for decades — sometimes indefinitely.
The Science of Longevity
The secret to a can’s remarkable lifespan lies in the preservation process. Canned food is cooked inside its sealed container at high temperatures, killing bacteria and creating a vacuum that prevents new microorganisms from entering. As long as that seal remains intact, the food is protected from spoilage and contamination.
Storage conditions are what truly determine how long canned goods last. A can kept in a cool, dry, dark place — ideally below 85°F (29°C) — can outlast its label by years. Heat and humidity are the real enemies. They can corrode the metal, compromise the seal, and slowly degrade the food inside.
Different types of canned foods age differently:
- High-acid foods (like tomatoes, tomato sauce, pineapple, or citrus fruits) last around 12–18 months. Their natural acidity helps inhibit bacteria but can gradually wear down the can’s lining.
- Low-acid foods (such as beans, corn, peas, carrots, potatoes, and canned meats) can last three to five years — sometimes longer — without losing much quality.
If stored properly, even cans sitting quietly in your pantry for a decade can remain edible.
When “Expired” Doesn’t Mean Unsafe
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