With the convenience and long shelf life, canned foods have become a staple in many households. But did you know that some canned foods are not as safe or beneficial as you might think? Let’s delve into the surprising facts about some canned foods and why you might want to reconsider before adding them to your shopping cart.
1. Not All Canned Foods are Shelf Stable
It’s a common belief that canned foods are all shelf-stable and can be stored at room temperature indefinitely. However, that’s not the case with all canned products. Some canned foods, like canned ham and seafood, are not safe at room temperature and should be stored in the refrigerator. According to the USDA, such products need to be handled carefully to prevent spoilage and foodborne illnesses.
It’s critical to always read and follow the storage instructions on the can. If a can mentions refrigeration after opening, it means the contents are not shelf-stable and could potentially spoil if left at room temperature. These canned foods are typically pasteurized and require refrigeration to keep them safe for consumption.
Even if canned foods don’t require refrigeration, they should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat or sunlight. Extreme temperatures can affect the quality of the food and shorten its shelf life. So it’s better to store canned foods in a pantry or a dedicated storage area in your kitchen.
2. Watch Out for Packaging Dates
Ever wondered what those dates on canned food labels mean? They’re actually indicators of quality and freshness, not necessarily safety. Terms like “sell by”, “best if used by/before”, and “use by” are used to communicate the peak quality period of the product.
It’s always a good idea to check these dates before you purchase canned goods. If the “use by” date has passed, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the food is unsafe to eat. However, it may not be at its best quality anymore, affecting its taste and texture. When in doubt, it’s better to use older items first and replace them with fresh stock regularly.
Remember, though, that these dates are reliable only as long as the can is in good condition. Any signs of damage, like bulging, leaking, or foul smell, could indicate spoilage, and the food should not be consumed, regardless of the date on the label.
3. The Danger of BPA and Its Substitutes
Bisphenol A (BPA) was once a common ingredient in the lining of canned foods until research linked it to various health issues. Many manufacturers have replaced BPA with other substances, but are these substitutes any safer? According to this report, some substitutes may still pose risks.
For example, acrylic resins, one of the alternatives, may contain polystyrene, a possible carcinogen. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), another substitute, contains vinyl chloride, a known human carcinogen. Therefore, it’s crucial to be cautious about canned foods, even those labeled as BPA-free.
Until these substitutes are thoroughly assessed for safety, it might be wise to limit your consumption of canned foods. Consider choosing fresh, frozen, or dried alternatives instead. You can also contact the manufacturers for more information about the materials used in their can linings.
4. Be Wary of Dented Cans
While shopping for canned foods, have you ever come across cans with dents or bulges? Such cans should be avoided as they may be signs of compromised food safety.
Dents on the seams, rust, or loose lids can create openings for bacteria to enter. Deep rust or holes in the can or lid are especially dangerous as they can lead to contamination. A can that spurts when opened is a clear sign of contamination and should be discarded immediately.
Even small dents can be problematic if they’re on the top or side seams of the can. These areas are critical points where the can is sealed, and any damage can lead to leaks and contamination. So, the next time you go shopping, pay attention to the physical condition of the cans as well as their labels.
5. High-Acid Canned Foods
Did you know that the acidity of the food can affect the shelf life of canned goods? High-acid foods, like tomatoes and fruits, can be stored up to 18 months. Beyond this period, the food might still be safe to eat but could have a degraded taste and texture.
High-acid foods can also react with the metal of the can over time, which might give the food a metallic taste. Although this doesn’t necessarily make the food unsafe, it can certainly affect your enjoyment of the meal. To avoid this, consider using canned high-acid foods within their peak quality period.
Remember, once opened, canned foods should be used within a week. Any leftovers should be refrigerated in a separate container and not in the can itself. This helps prevent any further reaction between the food and the can.
6. Low-Acid Canned Foods
On the other side of the spectrum are low-acid canned foods, like vegetables and meats. These foods have a longer shelf life and can be stored for 2-5 years. But like high-acid foods, their quality might deteriorate over time, affecting the taste and texture of the food.
Low-acid canned foods should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat or sunlight. This helps maintain their quality and extends their shelf life. Also, remember to always check the can for any signs of damage before opening it, as this could indicate potential spoilage.
Once opened, low-acid canned foods should also be used within a week. Any leftovers should be refrigerated in a separate container and not in the can itself. This helps prevent any potential reaction between the food and the can and ensures that the leftovers remain safe for consumption.
7. Canned Beverages and Aluminum Shortage
Last but not least, let’s talk about canned beverages. With the increasing popularity of canned craft beers and sodas, aluminum cans have been in high demand. However, there’s been a widespread aluminum shortage, which could affect the supply of canned beverages.
While this might not directly affect the safety of the beverages, it could potentially lead to increased prices or limited availability. It’s also worth noting that BPA and its substitutes, which we discussed earlier, are often used in the lining of aluminum cans, including those used for beverages. So, it’s a good idea to limit your consumption of canned beverages or choose those from manufacturers who are transparent about their can linings.
As always, moderation is key. While canned beverages can be a convenient option, excessive consumption could lead to potential health risks. So, whether it’s a canned soda or a craft beer, enjoy it responsibly and in moderation.
In conclusion, while canned foods offer convenience and a long shelf life, it’s important to make informed choices. Not all canned foods are created equal, and factors like storage conditions, packaging dates, can linings, physical condition of the can, and the acidity of the food all play a role in determining their safety and quality. So, the next time you’re shopping for canned foods, keep these points in mind and choose wisely.
