Can You See the Consequences?

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

When it comes to storing leftover canned food, it’s natural to want to save time and effort by simply covering the can with plastic wrap and popping it into the fridge. However, is this practice safe? The Department of Agriculture states that unused portions of canned food can be refrigerated in the can, but only if they are transferred to a food-grade glass or plastic container. But why is this so important?

The Risks of Storing Food in an Open Can

Jennifer Pallian, a registered dietitian and food science writer, advises against storing food directly in the can. She explains that it can pose several health risks, primarily due to chemical contamination and microbial growth. This is because the can’s lining can leach chemicals into the food, especially acidic foods like tomatoes, which can cause corrosion and lead to increased leaching of metals like iron and zinc.

Does the Type of Food Matter?

The safety of storing food in open cans varies depending on the type of food. Acidic foods like tomatoes can cause more leaching of chemicals from the can’s lining compared to non-acidic 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, potentially impacting food safety.

What’s the Deal with BPA?

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used in certain food contact materials and has been linked to health concerns. While the FDA currently states that BPA is safe at the levels found in foods today, Pallian believes that we should avoid the risk entirely. Storing food in opened cans increases the risk of BPA leaching into the food, which can significantly impact our health. Research suggests that BPA can even have the effect of mimicking estrogen, which may disrupt hormone function.

How About BPA-Free Cans?

Products labeled as "BPA-free" are typically replaced with chemicals like bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF). While they provide similar properties, such as durability and heat resistance, without the negative press associated with BPA, 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, 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 leftover canned food in its original container, it’s essential to prioritize food safety and quality. By following the best practices outlined above, you can ensure that your food remains safe and flavorful. Remember to always err on the side of caution and consult this handy chart whenever you’re unsure.

FAQs

Q: Can I store leftover canned food in its original container?
A: While it’s technically possible, it’s not recommended due to potential chemical contamination and microbial growth.

Q: What type of containers should I use to store leftover canned food?
A: Consider using glass, stainless-steel, or ceramic containers with tight-fitting lids. Opt for durable, airtight sets when possible.

Q: Can I use plastic containers to store leftover canned food?
A: Yes, but choose BPA-free containers and resealable plastic bags for freezing.

Q: How long can I store leftover canned food in the fridge?
A: Consume any leftovers within 3 to 4 days for optimal safety and quality.

Q: Can I freeze leftover canned food?
A: Yes, transfer food to freezer-safe containers and freeze for longer storage.