Having canned goods in your pantry can save you time and effort when you need to make a quick dinner but don’t have time to go to the store.
These foods don’t go bad quickly and can be used to make a tasty meal. One example is canned tomatoes. Other examples are green beans and corn. Plus, canned goods are affordable and can boast great nutrition, too. But if you look in your pantry and see some cans that have passed their sell-by date, you might be wondering: How long does canned food last? Is it safe to eat canned food after the date written on the can? Don’t worry—we’re here to answer your questions so you can feel good about reaching for that trusty can of beans.
Curious how long foods last in the fridge or freezer, too? Weve got all the answers.
The truth about canned foods is pretty shocking, and it will make you feel a lot better about not having to eat and replace all your extra food every year or two. The USDA says that most foods that are shelf-stable will last forever as long as they are kept in good condition (that is, without rust, major dents, or swelling).
But that doesn’t mean the food will still taste and feel the same years after the expiration date. There are a few things that can shorten the shelf life of canned food, but as a general rule, foods that are more acidic will go bad faster, while foods that are less acidic will last longer.
Here’s a list of how long different kinds of canned food will last on the shelf and in the fridge after they’ve been opened, in case you’re wondering how long they’ll last without being opened.
As a busy home cook, I rely on canned pinto beans to quickly add protein, fiber, and flavor to meals Their versatility allows me to whip up tacos, chili, soups, dips, and more with ease. But I occasionally worry – how long do unopened canned pinto beans really last?
As an avid canned food user, I did some research to find out. Read on for a complete guide to maximizing the shelf life and safety of unopened canned pinto beans.
An Overview of Canned Pinto Beans
Pinto beans are a popular variety of bean native to Mexico and the Southwestern United States. Their earthy flavor, creamy texture, and brown speckled skin make them a kitchen staple.
Canned pinto beans undergo a commercial canning process to lock in flavor and shelf stability. The beans are fully cooked inside the can, which is then sealed airtight. This protects the beans from air exposure and bacteria growth.
Unopened canned pintos have a long shelf life at room temperature. They’re ready to eat straight from the can – just drain, rinse, and add to recipes. Convenient and budget-friendly!
How Long Do Unopened Canned Pintos Last?
Stored properly, unopened canned pinto beans remain fresh for:
-
Pantry: 2 to 5 years past the “best by” date.
-
Dry, cool area: Up to 6 years past the “best by” date.
The “best by” date indicates peak quality, not safety. Beans in an intact can long past this date should still be wholesome and safe if the can is not compromised.
Proper Storage Conditions for Unopened Canned Beans
To maximize shelf life, store unopened canned pinto beans:
-
In a cool, dry spot around 50°F to 70°F. Avoid temperature extremes.
-
In a dark pantry or cupboard away from light.
-
Away from direct heat sources like ovens or dishwashers.
-
With oldest cans towards the front to ensure first use.
Ideally, store cans at temperatures under 78°F and below 40% humidity.
Signs Your Unopened Canned Pintos Have Spoiled
Watch for these signs of spoilage before consuming unopened canned pinto beans:
-
Bulging or leaking can, indicating bacteria produced gas
-
Rusted or heavily dented can
-
White powder or spurting liquid upon opening
-
Unpleasant odors
-
Discolored, mushy, or slimy bean texture
If you notice any of these warning signs, play it safe and discard the can. Botulism is rare but can be deadly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about maximizing the shelf life of unopened canned pinto beans? Here are some common FAQs:
How can I tell if unopened canned beans are still good?
Check that the can is not damaged, rusted, or bulging. Pop the top and look/smell for any signs of spoilage.
Can I store unopened canned beans in the fridge or freezer?
No, room temperature storage is ideal. The beans are shelf-stable and do not require refrigeration.
Is it safe to eat beans from dented cans?
Slight dents are OK if the can is intact and not leaking. Severe dents, rust, or bulges indicate throw it out.
Can I store cans in the garage or basement?
Avoid hot, humid garages. Cool, dry basements are ideal. Ensure cans avoid direct contact with cement floors.
Do I need to rinse canned beans before cooking?
Yes, rinsing removes excess sodium, thickening agents, and beans’ gel coating from the canning process.
Storing Unopened Canned Beans Long-Term
For long-term storage of over 1 year, consider these extra tips:
-
Wrap cans in plastic to protect from humidity. Avoid wrappers that retain moisture.
-
Stack cans on shelves to avoid direct contact with concrete floors.
-
Label cans with date of purchase and “use by” date for easy identification.
-
Inspect cans every 6-12 months and watch for any bulges or rust.
With proper conditions, unopened canned pinto beans can safely last for years – an ideal shelf-stable pantry staple! Just be sure to store cans in a cool, dry spot and inspect for damage before use.
The Takeaway
Unopened canned pinto beans have a lengthy shelf life of 2-5 years when stored properly. For maximum freshness, store cans in a cool, dry pantry around 50°F to 70°F. Check for dents, rust, or bulging before opening. And remember – the “best by” date indicates peak quality, not safety!
What do expiration dates indicate?
Over the years, many canned foods will experience taste and texture changes. The “use-by” or “best-by” dates that are often printed on cans are for quality, not safety. Sometimes, even healthy canned foods can lose some of their nutritional value over time. That’s why it’s best to eat different kinds of canned goods by a certain date.
Is it safe to eat canned foods past their “expiration” date?
While canned goods past their “best-by” date may not taste optimal, theres no real health risk in consuming canned goods as long as they remain in good condition. Heres why: The food in the container is commercially sterile and a vacuum seal prevents any new bacteria from getting in, so it will not spoil. Just make sure that you never buy bulging, rusted, leaking or dented cans, and that you always store canned goods in a cool, dry place — in fact, the USDA says to never store them in any place exposed to high or low temperatures, or in places such as under the sink, above or beside the stove, or in a damp garage or basement.