Walk into almost any kitchen and you’ll likely find a forgotten can of beans, soup, or vegetables hiding in the back of the pantry. When people notice that the date on the label has passed, the instinct is often to toss it out.
But is that really necessary? Are those cans unsafe—or is the truth more surprising?
What Do the Dates Really Mean?
The first thing to understand is that most dates on canned goods are not about safety. They’re about quality.
- “Best By” or “Best Before” – This date refers to when the manufacturer believes the food will be at its peak flavor and texture. It’s about freshness, not safety.
- “Use By” – This is usually reserved for perishable foods (like dairy or meat) and also refers to best quality, not a strict cutoff for safety.
So, if your canned soup is “past date,” don’t panic—it might still be perfectly fine to eat.
How Long Do Canned Foods Really Last?
When stored correctly (in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight), most canned foods last 1 to 5 years past the printed date—and sometimes even longer.
- Shorter shelf life
- Best within 12–18 months past the date
Low-acid foods (like beans, corn, and canned meats):
- Can last 3–5+ years or more if stored properly
USDA Tip: As long as the can is intact and undamaged, canned food can remain safe indefinitely. Taste and texture may degrade, but the food won’t suddenly become unsafe.
When Is a Can Actually Unsafe?
While the date alone isn’t a reliable indicator of safety, there are clear signs a can should be thrown away:
Bulging can or lid – Can indicate dangerous bacterial growth (like botulism)
Leaks or rust, especially around the seams – The seal may be broken
Deep dents, especially on edges or seams – Could compromise the can’s integrity
Odd smell, discoloration, or spurting liquid when opened – Major red flags
If you notice any of these, do not taste the food. Just toss it safely.
Why This Matters
Every year, millions of tons of perfectly good food are wasted—often because of confusion around expiration dates.
Misunderstanding these dates contributes to:
- Wasted money
- Unnecessary food waste
- Environmental damage
- Increased food insecurity
Being informed means you can:
-
- Stretch your grocery budget
- Reduce waste
- Use emergency food storage more effectively
- Support a more sustainable food system
The Bottom Line
Canned foods are pantry MVPs for a reason. They’re shelf-stable, resilient, and—when stored correctly—can remain safe for years beyond their printed dates.
Before tossing a can, ask:
- Is the can dented, rusted, bulging, or leaking?
- Does it smell or look off when opened?
If not, it might still be a safe, nutritious, and budget-friendly meal waiting to happen.
Next time you rediscover that dusty can at the back of your pantry, don’t toss it without checking. You could be saving food, money, and the environment—all with one smart choice.
