We’ve all experienced it — that moment of discovery while cleaning the pantry when an old can of soup or beans turns up with a long-past expiration date. The natural instinct is to toss it immediately, assuming it’s unsafe. But here’s the surprising truth: canned food often lasts much longer than the printed date suggests. The key is knowing how to recognize when it’s still safe to use.
The dates printed on cans — such as “Best By,” “Sell By,” or “Use By” — can be misleading. According to food safety experts, these labels typically refer to quality, not safety. In other words, the manufacturer is indicating when the food will taste its best, not when it suddenly becomes harmful. If the can has been stored correctly in a cool, dry space and remains free of dents, rust, or swelling, its contents can often stay safe and edible for years beyond that date.
The shelf life depends on the type of food. High-acid items like tomatoes and fruit generally maintain their best quality for about one to one and a half years, while low-acid foods such as beans, vegetables, and canned meats can last three to five years — sometimes even longer. Still, common sense always comes first: if a can looks damaged, leaks, or emits an unusual odor when opened, it’s safest to discard it.
Taking a moment to inspect canned goods rather than automatically throwing them away can reduce food waste and save money — without compromising safety. An expiration date doesn’t always mean the end of a product’s life; proper storage and awareness go a long way. So next time you find an old can in your pantry, give it a careful look — it might still be perfectly fine for your next meal.