Shelf Stable Foods

Canned goodshigh acid (such as juices, fruit, pickles, sauerkraut, tomato soup, and foods in vinegar-based sauce)

5–7 days in the fridge after opening and 12–18 months in the pantry from the date of purchase.

Pantry

from purchase: 12–18 months
after opening: Not recommended

Fridge

after opening: 5–7 days

Freezer

No USDA guidance

Storage tips

Canned items will be safe to eat well past the ‘use-by’ or ‘best by’ date as long as the can shows no dents, rust, or swelling.

Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeperHow to read these times

Common questions

How long do canned goods (high acid (such as juices, fruit, pickles, sauerkraut, tomato soup, and foods in vinegar-based sauce)) last in the fridge?

5–7 days after opening.

How long do canned goods (high acid (such as juices, fruit, pickles, sauerkraut, tomato soup, and foods in vinegar-based sauce)) last in the pantry?

12–18 months from the date of purchase. Storing it in the pantry after opening is not recommended.

How can I tell if canned goods (high acid (such as juices, fruit, pickles, sauerkraut, tomato soup, and foods in vinegar-based sauce)) have gone bad?

Throw it out if it smells off, feels slimy or sticky, shows mold, or has changed color. Storage times assume it was handled safely and kept cold the whole time.