Shelf Stable Foods

Canned goodslow acid (such as meat, poultry, fish, gravy, stew, soups, beans, carrots, corn, pasta, peas, potatoes, spinach)

3–4 days in the fridge after opening and 2–5 years in the pantry from the date of purchase.

Pantry

from purchase: 2–5 years
after opening: Not recommended

Fridge

after opening: 3–4 days

Freezer

No USDA guidance

Storage tips

Canned items will be safe to eat well past the ‘use-by’ or ‘best by’ date as long as the can shows no dents, rust, or swelling.

Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeperHow to read these times

Common questions

How long do canned goods (low acid (such as meat, poultry, fish, gravy, stew, soups, beans, carrots, corn, pasta, peas, potatoes, spinach)) last in the fridge?

3–4 days after opening.

How long do canned goods (low acid (such as meat, poultry, fish, gravy, stew, soups, beans, carrots, corn, pasta, peas, potatoes, spinach)) last in the pantry?

2–5 years from the date of purchase. Storing it in the pantry after opening is not recommended.

How can I tell if canned goods (low acid (such as meat, poultry, fish, gravy, stew, soups, beans, carrots, corn, pasta, peas, potatoes, spinach)) have gone bad?

Throw it out if it smells off, feels slimy or sticky, shows mold, or has changed color. Storage times assume it was handled safely and kept cold the whole time.