While fresh foods often boast superior flavor and texture, canned foods can be equally nutritious. The canning process locks in nutrients, and some canned foods may even have higher levels of certain vitamins and minerals compared to their fresh counterparts. However, the added sodium and preservatives in some canned products should be consumed in moderation.
The Top Canned Foods That Never Expire
When considering foods to stockpile for indefinite periods, certain items stand out due to their longevity and nutritional value. Here, we highlight 15 canned foods that, when stored properly, can last forever:
1. Canned Beans
Beans are a nutrient-rich food, packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. When canned, beans can last for years. The lack of dairy or meat products in them helps extend their shelf life, making them a reliable pantry staple.
2. Canned Corn
Corn in its canned form can last for a considerable amount of time. It’s a great source of fiber and vitamins, and the canning process locks in many of the nutrients.
3. Canned Carrots
Canned carrots are a handy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable long after its season has passed. Carrots maintain much of their beta-carotene content, even through the canning process.
4. Canned Peas
Like corn and carrots, canned peas can survive a long stint in your pantry. They are an easy way to add a green vegetable to your meals, providing fiber, vitamin C, and plant-based protein.
5. Canned Tomatoes
Tomatoes are particularly well-suited to canning, which preserves their flavor and nutrients, including lycopene, which may become more bioavailable through the canning process.
6. Canned Pumpkin
A fall favorite, canned pumpkin is not just for pies but also for soups and baking. It’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants and maintains its quality for a long time when canned.
7. Canned Fish (Tuna, Salmon, Sardines)
Canned fish like tuna, salmon, and sardines are excellent sources of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. They have one of the longest shelf lives in the canned goods section.
8. Canned Chicken
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