How long do canned foods last before it isnt safe to eat the contents inside?

Question

I notice that many of them have no use by dates or best before dates does this mean they stay edible for ever

Answer 1

In the fifties people stocked their bomb shelters with them because they last for years.

Answer 2

Most canned foods in Canada have an expiry date imprinted, I'm surprised you don't have the same thing in AUS. It's still safe to eat the contents past the expiry date however but as I rule of thumb I don't keep any canned goods in my cupboard beyond 2-3 years.

Answer 3

i would not say forever i would say at least 3 years as londg as the cans stay in good shape and do not form a leak by rusting

Answer 4

Canned food can be consumed up to 2 years from the manufacturing date.

Honestly, any canned food more than a year, I would not rather consume it at all.

Answer 5

look at the can it should show

Answer 6

I've often wondered the same thing.  I have a rather large pantry and often buy in bulk and have stopped because some products do NOT put a "use by" date on them.  I then have to wonder....how long has this been in here...is it safe to feed my family....is it safe to open?  Botulism is a serious disease with no smell or taste but could easily be spread through a contaminated canned food.  I stopped buying canned food that I know I won't use up or doesn't have a "use by" date.  I even called my Mom and asked her....she said she throws them out if there is a question.  She said go by the golden rule..."When in doubt....throw it out".

Peace & Love  :)

Answer 7

I'm a college student and my mom will always give me a trunk load of her canned food to bring back with me every so often.  She has given me stuff from 1995 that we canned.  I think as long as it is canned properly and allowed to seal, it should last longer than 5 years.