Don't Skip One Important Step Before Putting Away Your Canned Goods

We surely all love the convenience of canned food. Pop the top, dump its contents in a sauce pot, and dinner is practically served. But are you sure you are handling your canned goods the right way? Most of us focus on checking the expiration date and avoiding dented or rusty cans. But while that's still a smart move, another potential enemy is hiding in plain sight on the can's lid itself.

That seemingly clean lid might be harboring unwanted microscopic baddies there courtesy of dust, insect droppings, or even rodent urine. Yuck. But the harsh truth is that anything is possible during a can's journey from the factory to your pantry. The good news? Avoiding a potential stomach ache couldn't be easier. It's all about cleaning the lid before opening the can. Even better, a simple wash with soapy water is all you need. And, while it may sound silly, remember that whatever is on the lid can easily get into the food as you open it. 

To clean can lids, use warm, soapy water and scrub the lids for 20 seconds. While you're at it, take a quick peek at the can itself. Look for dents, bulges, or rust, as these can signal a problem with the contents. If you're ever unsure, it's better to be safe and toss the contents. 

Now that your can is squeaky clean, let's talk storage. Heat and moisture are the enemies of canned food, so be sure to find a cool, dry place in your pantry for your canned goods. Avoid areas near the stove or oven and keep them away from windows that get a lot of sun. Also, remember to rotate your canned goods like you would the contents of your fridge. Use the "first in, first out" method. This ensures you always use the oldest cans first, preventing them from languishing on the shelf. You surely have too many cans of diced fruit hanging out, waiting for new life in a tasty canned fruit-centric recipe. And who doesn't stock up on salty canned soup like it's going out of style?