Shelf Life Issues

Have you ever wondered if the canned goods you’ve forgotten at the back of the pantry are still safe to eat?  Here are some relevant information about the shelf life of groceries and household cleaning products.

Groceries and canned goods:  The following factors limit the shelf life of food items:

• Food composition.  High-acid foods like tomatoes and fruit juices can react chemically with metal containers. Over time such reactions can cause taste and texture changes, and lower the nutritional value of food.
• Packaging.  Cans and metal lids of jars rust, which can cause tiny pinholes that may let bacteria in. Food items packed in plastics and tetra pack containers are prone to rodent infestation.
• Handling and storage conditions. Dents and scratches may crack open containers. Avoid damaged canned goods. Be wary of buying food items on sale – examine labels and check expiry dates.

To prolong shelf life and keep your family’s food safe:

• Follow storage instructions on container labels, like “keep frozen” or “store below 35 degrees Celsius”. Shelf-stable foods like canned goods, cereals, and pasta can be kept safely at room temperature. Store them in clean, dry, and cool cabinets to maintain quality.
• Transfer plastic or foil-wrapped foods into bottles or hard plastic containers with tight lids to protect them from moisture and pests. Changes in color, texture, flavor, odor, and loss of nutrients can happen if these are left in their original packaging after opening. Use a dry spoon when scooping out powdered products.
• Practice the “First-In, First-Out” principle. Store newly bought goods behind old stock.
• Throw away foods that show signs of spoilage (e.g. mold, off-odors, frothy liquid, cans with bulging ends, or leaks). Dispose properly to prevent other people or animals from consuming it.

Household Cleaning Products

Many types of household cleaners have an unlimited shelf life, but they degrade after some time. Oxidation can cause color changes. Scents may evaporate. Product texture may be altered, as when oils separate from its base in wax products. Despite all these, you may still try and use it. But before you do, look at any precautions stated on the label. If you choose to simply discard it, be sure to empty containers into trash cans not easily accessible to children or pets; throw them into cans secured with a lid. Remember, household cleaning substances are classified as hazardous and may cause illness when ingested by humans.

To further preserve efficacy and maintain the strength of household cleaners:

• Open all containers according to package directions. Read caution reminders on labels. Keep them in their original packaing.
• Reseal or close containers properly after every use to protect, prevent spills, and avoid letting moisture in, especially for granulated products.
• Store them in a cool, dry place. For pressurized containers (air fresheners, insect sprays, etc.), store below 50 degrees Celsius.