Why You Shouldn’t Store Food in an Open Metal Can

Why You Shouldn’t Store Food in an Open Metal Can

Are There Dangers to Storing Food in an Open Metal Can?

The Department of Agriculture states that "unused portions of canned food may be refrigerated in the can" but quickly follows up with a crucial caveat: "To preserve optimum quality and flavor, place the unused portion in a food-grade glass or plastic container." This is because storing food directly in the can can pose several health risks, primarily due to chemical contamination and microbial growth.

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Does the Type of Food Matter?

When it comes to storage risks, not all canned foods are created equal. Acidic foods, like tomatoes, can cause more leaching of chemicals from the can’s lining compared to nonacidic foods, like beans. According to the USDA, metal cans are made of sheet steel—sometimes with a coating of tin. Research suggests that prolonged storage and exposure to oxygen in acidic foods can lead to increased leaching of metals, like iron and zinc, potentially impacting food safety.

What’s the Deal with BPA?

According to the Food and Drug Administration, bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used in certain food contact materials and first approved by FDA in the early 1960s. In recent years, concerns have been raised about BPA’s safety. While the FDA’s current position is that BPA is safe at the levels found in foods today, some researchers argue that there are no safe levels of BPA in canned foods. Storing food in opened cans increases the risk of BPA leaching into the food, which can significantly impact our health.

How About BPA-Free Cans?

Products labeled as "BPA-free" are typically replaced with chemicals like bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF). While these chemicals provide similar properties, such as durability and heat resistance, without the negative press associated with BPA, research suggests that they have shown similar endocrine-disrupting effects. Further research is still needed regarding their long-term health and safety.

Food Safety and Best Practices

To summarize: While leftovers can technically be stored in the can, the type of food and storage time can impact the quality and safety. Given these potential risks, here are some food-safety best practices for storing leftover canned goods:

• Transfer to proper containers: The USDA recommends transferring leftover canned food to clean, airtight containers made of glass, plastic or stainless steel.
• Refrigerate promptly: Get those leftovers into the fridge within two hours of opening the can.
• Do occasional temperature check-ins: To slow bacterial growth and preserve freshness, your refrigerator should always be at 40°F (4°C) or below and your freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
• Label and date: Mark your containers with the date of storage to keep track of freshness and how long they’ve been in the fridge or freezer.
• Use within 3 to 4 days: Consume any leftovers within this time frame for optimal safety and quality.
• Consider freezing: For longer storage, transfer food to freezer-safe containers and freeze.

What Types of Containers Should I Use?

When it comes to storing leftover canned foods (or leftovers, in general), consider using glass, stainless-steel or ceramic containers (which are all nonreactive) with tight-fitting lids. Opt for durable, airtight sets when possible. And if you’re using plastic containers, choose BPA-free containers and resealable plastic bags for freezing.

The Bottom Line

Canned goods are healthy, convenient, delicious, budget-friendly and reliable sources of quality food. While storing leftovers in their original container might be convenient and safe up to a point, the potential risks to both food quality and your health make it a practice best avoided. By taking a few extra moments to transfer your food to a proper storage container, you’re preserving its flavor and protecting yourself from potential chemical exposure and bacterial growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to store food in an open metal can, it’s essential to prioritize food safety and quality. By following the best practices outlined above, you can ensure that your leftovers remain safe and delicious for a longer period.

FAQs

Q: Can I store food in an open metal can?
A: While it’s technically possible, it’s not recommended due to potential health risks and decreased food quality.

Q: What type of containers should I use for storing leftover canned foods?
A: Opt for nonreactive containers made of glass, stainless-steel, or ceramic with tight-fitting lids.

Q: How long can I store leftover canned foods?
A: For optimal safety and quality, consume leftovers within 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.

Q: Are BPA-free cans a safe alternative?
A: While BPA-free cans may be a better option, research suggests that they have shown similar endocrine-disrupting effects. Further research is still needed regarding their long-term health and safety.