How long does canned food last?

Answer 1

Canned food has a shelf life of at least two years from the date of processing. Canned food retains its safety and nutritional value well beyond two years, but it may have some variation in quality, such as a change of color and texture. Canning is a high-heat process that renders the food commercially sterile. Food safety is not an issue in products kept on the shelf or in the pantry for long periods of time. In fact, canned food has an almost indefinite shelf life at moderate temperatures (75° F and below). Canned food as old as 100 years has been found in sunken ships and it is still microbiologically safe! We don't recommend keeping canned food for 100 years, but if the can is intact, not dented or bulging, it is edible.

http://www.EatByDate.com For more Shelf Life and Food Storage Info

If the cans are not damaged, years.

Answer 2

If the cans are not damaged, years.

It can be kept until the can starts rusting or growing mould.

It depends on several factors, for example the storage of the can itself and have a great effect on its contents.

For example military rations that used to come in tins have been known to be edible nearly 20 years after production if stored correctly(these tend to make extensive use of preservatives) The big killer of the can of course is rust, so never try rations where you can see visible signs of rust anywhere on the can!

Next the contents will last longer if they have plenty of artificial preservatives, or contain a lot of salt, for this reason British army canned 'processed cheese' bears little resemblance to cheese, but is very salty! It does however keep for years.

Remember that the "best before" dates are just that, the food will be at its best before the date, after that it will slowly deteriorate. (remember corned beef, and tuna often carry a couple of years best befrore date!)

In theory - forever. In practice, it should not be used past the expiration date printed on the can

as past that date it gradually becomes more and more tasteless and unappetizing.