Canned food is a great way to stock up on shelf-stable ingredients and create delicious meals.

The shelf life of canned foods depends on various factors, including the type of food, the date of canning, and how it is stored.
Canned food is optimal for prepping, as it has a long shelf life and can be an important source of essential nutrients in survival situations.[1]

But how long does canned food last?

This article will explain the factors that affect the longevity of canned foods and provide tips for extending their shelf life.

In Short – How Long Does Canned Food Last:

You can be confident that a trusted and authoritative source has thoroughly checked any information presented to you. You can rest assured that all data is from reliable and reputable government websites.[2,3]

Low Acid Canned Food

Canned goods with low acidity levels can be stored for long periods, usually between two to five years.

Examples of such items include canned meat, stews and soups (except tomato), noodles and pasta, potatoes, corn, carrots, spinach, beans, beets, peas, and pumpkins.

High Acid Canned Food

High-acid canned food has a shelf life of 12 to 18 months.

Examples include tomato, orange, lemon, lime, and grapefruit juices; tomatoes, grapefruit, pineapple, apples, and apple products; mixed fruit, peaches, pears, plums, all berries; pickles; and sauerkraut. Foods treated with vinegar-based sauces or dressings, such as German potato salad and sauerbraten, are also included.

Home Canned Food

Home-canned food can be kept fresh for up to one year.[4]

To ensure safety and quality when consuming these canned foods, boil them for at least 10 minutes (for high-acid foods) or 20 minutes (for low-acid foods).