Hi, it's Alaska Granny. As preppers, we know the importance of stockpiling food and supplies for future use. However, sometimes we store food away and don't get back to it before its indicated date. While this can be okay, it's crucial to understand the difference between "best by" and "sell by" dates versus actual expiration dates.
Understanding Food Longevity
Many foods can last well beyond their labeled dates. In my experience, older cans are often more durable than newer ones. They didn't have pop tops, which can sometimes fail. Out of the many cans I've stored, only one pop-top can didn't last as expected.
Inspecting Canned Foods
Recently, I decided to check on some canned green beans dated 2015—now eight years old. I’ve encountered instances where old green beans turned blue, indicating spoilage, but not all cans show visible signs. If the can isn't leaking, bulging, or damaged, it's worth inspecting further.
Weight Comparison of Old vs. New Cans
I noticed that older cans feel heavier than newer ones, even though both contain the same amount (14.5 oz) of green beans. I used a simple scale to weigh them. The older can weighed 18 oz, while the newer one weighed 17 oz. This suggests that the difference is in the can's material.
Opening and Testing
Upon opening the 2015 can, there was no spurt, and the beans looked perfectly fine. They had the right texture and smelled normal. Tasting them confirmed they were still good. I was pleasantly surprised by their quality despite being eight years past the date.
Storage Tips and Best Practices
While many foods can last beyond their dates, it's best to rotate stock closer to the date to ensure maximum freshness. However, don't be afraid to inspect and taste-test expired foods; they might still be perfectly fine. This approach has saved me many times, proving that careful storage can extend the life of your supplies.
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