Page Contents
You’ve been storing canned tuna all wrong
Canned tuna is a staple in many households, providing a convenient and nutritious option for quick meals. However, you may be surprised to learn that you’ve been storing canned tuna all wrong. Proper storage is essential to maintaining the quality and safety of your canned tuna. In this article, we’ll explore the best practices for storing canned tuna to ensure its freshness and longevity.
Canned tuna needs to be cool, but not too cool.
The first rule of storing canned tuna is to keep it away from heat. Exposure to heat can cause tuna to spoil quickly and become unsafe to eat. Therefore, avoid storing canned tuna in areas exposed to direct sunlight or near heat sources, such as over the stove. Instead, choose a cool, dark cabinet such as your pantry or a cupboard away from heat.
The National Fisheries Institute recommends storing canned tuna at room temperature. It’s important to keep cans off the ground to prevent leaking, rusting, or spoilage. Placing cans on shelves and organizing them with the older cans first will ensure that you use the older tuna first. According to the USDA, low-acid canned foods like tuna can last from two to five years when stored properly.
Transfer to a new container after opening
Once you open a can of tuna, the storage rules change. It is important to transfer the remaining tuna to another container and refrigerate it. The refrigerator will help maintain the freshness and quality of the tuna for one to two days. To prevent bacterial growth and to avoid any transfer of odors or flavors, it is recommended that the leftover tuna be covered tightly or placed in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid.
Some people worry about leaving food in an open can because of the possibility of harmful chemicals leaching from the metal. However, research suggests that can corrosion takes years to occur, making this an unlikely concern. The main reason to transfer the tuna to a separate container is to preserve its taste and quality, just like any other food you prepare.
Make sure your canned tuna hasn’t gone bad
Although canned tuna has a long shelf life, it can still go bad. Before consuming canned tuna, it is important to check the expiration date on the can. If it is within the recommended “eat by” date, you can proceed. However, there are a few additional checks to make sure the tuna is safe to eat.
Inspect the can for signs of damage such as rust, dents, leaks, or misshapen appearance. These can indicate improper storage and possible spoilage. When you open the can, look for any strong odors or unusual colors. Fresh tuna should be light pink to brown in color. If you notice green discoloration or dark brown or black streaks, it’s best to discard the tuna as it may not be safe to eat.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your canned tuna stays fresh, flavorful, and safe to eat. Proper storage practices not only preserve the quality of the tuna, but also help minimize food waste. So the next time you stock up on canned tuna, remember to store it in a cool, dark place before opening and refrigerate any leftovers to maximize its shelf life.
With proper storage techniques, you can enjoy delicious tuna salads, sandwiches and other dishes whenever you need a quick and healthy meal option.
FAQS
Why should I avoid storing canned tuna near heat sources?
Heat can cause canned tuna to spoil quickly and become unsafe to eat. It’s best to keep your canned tuna away from direct sunlight or heat sources like the stove to maintain its freshness and quality.
Can I refrigerate unopened cans of tuna?
No, it is not necessary to refrigerate unopened cans of tuna. Storing them in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or cupboard away from heat sources will keep them fresh.
Why do I need to transfer opened cans of tuna to another container?
Transferring opened cans of tuna to a separate container and refrigerating them helps preserve the quality and flavor of the tuna. It also prevents bacterial growth and minimizes the transfer of odors or flavors from other foods in the refrigerator.
How long can I keep opened cans of tuna in the refrigerator?
Opened cans of tuna can be stored in the refrigerator for one to two days. It’s important to cover the container tightly or use an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
How can I tell if canned tuna has gone bad?
Before eating canned tuna, check the can for signs of damage, such as rust, dents, leaks, or a misshapen appearance. In addition, if the tuna has a strong odor or unusual colors such as green or dark brown or black streaks, it’s best to discard it as it may not be safe to eat.
How long can canned tuna last when properly stored?
When stored properly, low-acid canned foods such as tuna can be kept for two to five years. It’s important to check the expiration date on the can and make sure the can is not damaged before consuming the tuna.