We’ve all opened the pantry and spotted a dusty can of soup or beans, wondering if it’s still safe after the expiration date. The instinct is to toss it immediately—but that “expired” label doesn’t always mean the food is bad. In fact, many canned goods can remain perfectly safe to eat long past the printed date if you know what to look for.
Those labels—“Best By,” “Sell By,” or “Use By”—mostly indicate quality, not safety. Stored properly in a cool, dry place and free from damage, the contents can often last for years beyond the date on the can.
How long depends on the type of food. High-acid items like tomatoes and fruits generally keep their best taste for 12–18 months. Low-acid foods—beans, vegetables, and canned meats—can stay safe for three to five years, sometimes even longer. But always trust your senses: if a can is bulging, rusted, leaking, or smells off, it’s time to toss it.
A quick check can prevent unnecessary waste and save money without risking your health. So before you throw away that “expired” can, take a closer look—it might still be perfectly good to enjoy.