Understanding “Best By” Dates on Canned Foods: How Long Are They Safe to Eat?

Navigating food expiration labels can be confusing, especially when it comes to canned goods like corn, green beans, and tuna. Many people mistake the “Best By” date for a strict expiration date, thinking the food becomes unsafe to eat once that day passes. However, this isn’t the case. “Best By” dates actually indicate the manufacturer’s estimate of how long the food will maintain its best quality—not when it suddenly becomes unsafe. Understanding this can help you make smarter choices, reduce food waste, and save money.

What Does “Best By” Really Mean?

A “Best By” date is a quality guide, not a safety deadline. It tells you when the product will be at its peak freshness and flavor according to the manufacturer’s testing. After this date, the food can still be safe to eat for a considerable time, especially if it has been stored properly. This is particularly true for canned foods, which are designed to have a long shelf life. So, while a can of corn or green beans might lose a bit of flavor or texture over time, it doesn’t mean it’s gone bad immediately after the date printed on the label.

How Long Do Canned Foods Last?

Canned foods are among the most durable pantry staples. For example, canned corn can often be safely consumed up to two years past its “Best By” date, provided the can is intact and stored in a cool, dry place. While you might notice slight changes in taste or texture after long storage, it’s generally safe to eat.

Similarly, canned green beans have a shelf life of about two years beyond the printed date. Over time, these vegetables might soften or lose some flavor, but they usually remain safe as long as the cans are undamaged.

Canned tuna, a protein-packed favorite, can last even longer—typically three to five years past its “Best By” date. Proper storage is crucial, and while the texture and taste might deteriorate, the food remains edible for years if the can is sound.

Safety Checklist: How to Inspect Your Canned Goods

Regardless of dates, your safety comes first. Before eating any canned food, carefully inspect the can itself. Avoid any cans that show obvious signs of damage like rust, bulging, or leaks—these are red flags for possible contamination. After opening, smell the contents and examine their appearance. If anything smells off or looks unusual, don’t take the risk—throw it away.

When in doubt, it’s always safer to err on the side of caution and discard questionable items. No “Best By” date should override your senses and common safety practices.

Tips for Proper Storage to Maximize Shelf Life

Proper storage is essential to keeping canned foods fresh and safe. Always store cans in a cool, dry, and dark place—heat and moisture can degrade both the food and the can’s integrity. Avoid places like garages or near stoves where temperature swings are common.

Keep cans upright so their seals stay intact, and handle them gently to prevent dents or punctures that could lead to spoilage. Organize your pantry using the “first in, first out” method—place newer cans behind older ones to use items before they become too old.

Once a can is opened, transfer any leftovers to a sealed container and refrigerate promptly. Never store opened food in the can itself, as exposure to air and metal can affect quality and safety.

The Bottom Line: Confidently Use Your Pantry Staples

By understanding what “Best By” dates really mean and following simple storage and safety tips, you can confidently enjoy canned goods long after their labeled date. This knowledge helps reduce unnecessary food waste and keeps your kitchen running efficiently. So next time you spot an old can of corn or tuna in your pantry, take a moment to inspect it carefully—you might find it’s perfectly good to eat and ready to save you a trip to the store.