Material

Tins & cans (steel/aluminium)

Written by the VitaWhat editorial team · Medically reviewed by Steve Davis · Last reviewed 19 July 2026 · Editorial policy

Great for long shelf-life; transfer leftovers once opened.

Typical storage time: Unopened: months to years; once opened, decant and use in 1–2 days

Best for

  • Long-term ambient storage of cooked/preserved foods

Avoid for

  • Storing food in an opened can
  • Dented, bulging or rusted cans (throw away)

Good to know

Cans are lined to stop the metal reacting with food. Once opened, move contents to a covered glass or plastic container and refrigerate.

Sources & references

  1. UK Food Standards Agency — Storage & food dates
  2. NHS — How to store food safely
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