Most people get this wrong and toss out the can. The right way to read ‘Best By’ or ‘Best Before’ dates.Most people get this wrong and toss out the can. The right way to read ‘Best By’ or ‘Best Before’ dates.

Below is a breakdown of typical shelf lives after the ‘Best By’ date for common canned foods, assuming proper storage (cool, dry location, and intact packaging):

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Using Your Senses: How to Evaluate Food Safety

Even past the ‘Best By’ date, many canned goods remain safe to eat. Use this checklist:

Look: Check for bulging lids, rust, dents (especially on seams), or leakage.