How long do canned goods last?
Short answer: Canned goods (low acid) keep 3–4 days once opened in the fridge and 2–5 years (refrigerate once opened) in the pantry.
Storage chart
| Type | Pantry | Fridge |
|---|---|---|
| low acid (such as meat, poultry, fish, gravy, stew, soups, beans, carrots, corn, pasta, peas, potatoes, spinach) | 2–5 years; Not recommended (after opening) | 3–4 days (after opening) |
| high acid (such as juices, fruit, pickles, sauerkraut, tomato soup, and foods in vinegar-based sauce) | 12–18 months; Not recommended (after opening) | 5–7 days (after opening) |
Fridge at 40°F (4°C) or colder, freezer at 0°F (−18°C). Freezer times are for best quality; food kept frozen stays safe indefinitely.
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.
Keep it longer
Keep the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or colder and the freezer at 0°F (−18°C). Write the date on containers when you open or cook something.
Common questions
How long do canned goods last in the fridge?
3–4 days once opened in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below, according to USDA FoodKeeper data.
How long do canned goods last at room temperature?
2–5 years (refrigerate once opened) in a cool, dry pantry.
How can I tell if canned goods have gone bad?
Throw them out if you see mold, a slimy texture, an off smell or an odd color. For anything perishable, go by the storage time rather than smell: bacteria that cause food poisoning don't usually change how food looks or smells.
More shelf stable foods
Source: USDA FoodKeeper data (USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service). Updated 2026-10-13. General information, not medical advice. When in doubt, throw it out.