- Storage Life of Foods -

Canned foods

The storage lives for the canned foods listed in Figure 34 are for cool, dry conditions.

Some canned hams and imported fish must be refrigerated during storage. Always read labels to see if any special storage conditions are needed. Longer storage times result in a gradual decrease in quality and nutrients, but the foods are still quite safe to eat.

Do not open any cans that are swollen or leaking as this indicates faulty processing; and do not buy cans that are dented or rusted.

Once opened, if the contents are not eaten, they should be covered and stored in a refrigerator. Some acid and salty foods such as fruit juices, tomatoes and rhubarb should be removed from the can before refrigerating.