We often put sealed canned foods directly into the refrigerator, but you might worry that refrigeration might damage unopened cans or cause food problems. This guide will cover food safety, the pros and cons of refrigerating sealed canned foods, and proper storage methods, so you know exactly when to put canned foods in the refrigerator and how to keep them good.
Why Unopened Cans Stay Safe in the Fridge
All commercially available canned foods undergo rigorous canning processes. The food inside is heated to high temperatures to kill all harmful bacteria. It is then sealed in a metal can. Whether the can is kept at room temperature or in a refrigerator below 4°C (40°F), a completely sealed and unbroken can cannot be contaminated by bacteria.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirms that there is no risk of food poisoning when refrigerated, properly sealed, and unopened cans. Cold air cannot damage a well-sealed can, thus keeping the food inside sterile and safe for consumption.
Refrigeration Is Not a Must for Unopened Cans
Here’s an important piece of information: canned foods are designed for storage at room temperature.
Depending on the type of food, it can be safely stored for 1 to 5 years in a cool, dry pantry without refrigeration.
Therefore, unopened cans do not require refrigeration to extend their shelf life. Most people put sealed canned goods in the refrigerator simply to enjoy chilled food or drinks anytime.
Disadvantages of Long-Term Refrigeration of Unopened Canned Food
Refrigeration itself does not pose a safety hazard, but prolonged refrigeration may cause some minor issues with canned foods:
Condensation and rust risk
The humidity inside the refrigerator is high. Every time the refrigerator door is opened, warm, humid air enters and forms condensation on refrigerated cans. Over weeks or months, this moisture can cause the outer layer of the metal can to rust. Severe corrosion can slowly damage the can’s seal over time.
To avoid this problem, wipe the cans dry before putting them in the refrigerator and store them in a cooler spot at the back of the refrigerator.
Slight change of flavor or texture
Prolonged refrigeration may slightly alter the flavor of food.
Highly acidic foods, such as canned tomatoes and pineapples, are most prone to subtle flavor changes.
Canned corn or beans, which are high in starch, may soften.
Waste of fridge space
Refrigerators are used to store perishable foods, such as meat, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Unopened cans take up valuable refrigerator space.
Rules You Must Follow for Unopened Cans in the Fridge
Only refrigerate intact canned goods
Never refrigerate cans that are dented, bulging, leaking, or severely rusted. Damaged cans are not properly sealed and pose a risk of bacterial growth regardless of where they are stored.
Never freeze unopened sealed cans
Liquids expand when frozen, which can cause sealed cans to crack or burst, completely ruining the food.
Separate strong-smelling food from cans
Sealed canned goods should be kept away from strongly scented foods such as onions and garlic to prevent them from absorbing unpleasant odors.
Long-term storage: choose pantry
To maintain optimal flavor and canned condition, store canned goods that need to be stored for several months in a cool, dry, dark cabinet at a temperature between 50°F and 70°F (10°C and 21°C).
Conclusion
In brief, if you want to enjoy refrigerated food or beverages at any time, store small, unopened cans in the refrigerator. Larger quantities of canned goods should be stored in a dry pantry to save refrigerator space and maintain their original quality. As long as the cans remain sealed, short-term refrigeration is fine.
FAQs
How many days can unopened cans be safely stored in the refrigerator?
Unopened, sealed canned food can be safely stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. To ensure optimal quality, it is recommended not to refrigerate for more than one month.
Will the metal from the can seep into the food if refrigerated?
Well-lined canned food poses no risk of metal leakage in the refrigerator. Leakage is only a risk after opening.
Can unopened canned tuna or meat be refrigerated?
Yes. Thoroughly sterilized and sealed canned meat and fish will not grow bacteria when unopened.
Can I store a whole case of unopened cans in the refrigerator for a long time?
It is not recommended. Stacking whole cases of cans will obstruct the flow of cold air and trap moisture, accelerating rusting.
What is the difference between refrigerating opened and unopened cans?
Unopened, sealed canned food remains sterile at low temperatures. Once opened, it is best to transfer any remaining food to an airtight container and consume it within 3 to 4 days.
You may also find this blog post useful:
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How Long Can You Keep Cooked Fish In The Refrigerator
Opened Canned Food Refrigerator Storage — A Complete Guide
About The Author
Evan Wang
I am Evan Wang, the General Manager, Marketing Director, and SEO Expert at Sunnyda Cold Room. I have over 20 years of experience in the refrigeration industry, and my expertise is in commercial refrigeration solutions.
I’d be delighted to share practical ideas about refrigeration products, project selection, export trade, SEO, and marketing.
Let’s connect!
