This makes them much more stable than fresh foods.
When You Should Throw a Can Away
Even if it’s within date, discard the can if you notice:
Bulging or swollen lid
Rust that compromises the seal
Leaking or damage
Strong bad odor when opened
Spurt of liquid or foam when opened
These can be signs of contamination, including dangerous bacteria like Botulism.
🧠 “Best By” vs Other Labels
Different terms mean slightly different things:
Best By / Best Before: Quality peak date
Use By: Often more strict, especially for perishable foods
Sell By: For store inventory, not consumer safety
