The Popular Canned Fruits You Should Avoid Buying For Your Pantry

Use up canned citrus within 18 months

While many home cooks—especially during tough economic times—may adopt a somewhat relaxed approach to "use by" dates, often viewing them as mere suggestions, canned citrus is not a food where you can afford to be careless with expiration dates. One of the significant advantages of most canned foods, such as soups and beans, is their remarkably long shelf life, making them a smart choice for your pantry or emergency supplies.

However, when it comes to canned citrus fruit, it's advisable to consume homemade canned goods within a year and commercially packaged products within 18 months, according to the USDA. After this period, they may begin to lose nutritional value and develop an unpleasant, altered flavor. The high acidity of the fruit can gradually corrode the metal can, leading to a process known as metallic diffusion. High-acid foods are particularly susceptible to this interaction between acid and metal.

The outcome, as you might expect, is neither nutritious nor tasty, though it typically doesn't pose a significant health risk. Canned foods, including acidic varieties, are generally safe to eat—as long as you adhere to proper storage guidelines. Just be sure to consume them within that 18-month timeframe to ensure your canned citrus retains its bright, zesty flavor, just as nature intended.