Can Aluminum Cans Go In The Fridge?

In this short guide, we will address the query, “Can aluminum cans go in the fridge?” We will also discuss how long aluminum cans containing unused food should stay in the fridge, how best to store unopened aluminum cans, why aluminum cans are used as food containers and the disadvantages of using aluminum cans as food containers.

Can aluminum cans go in the fridge?

Yes, aluminum cans go in the fridge. According to the United State Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Shelf-Stable Food Safety report, it is completely safe to refrigerate unused food in its can.

But it is important to note that once the can is open, especially when it contains food, it should not go in the fridge. This is because open aluminum cans are exposed to moisture which can cause them to rust and further dissolve into the food giving it a metallic taste.

Certainly, it is necessary to maintain the quality and taste of the food you intend to store.

How long should aluminum cans stay in the fridge?

Aluminum cans containing unused food should stay in the fridge for a period of 4 days with the lids properly closed. Although the storage period also depends on the type of food being stored in the aluminum can according to USDA.

For high acid canned foods such as tomatoes and fruit juices, they should be refrigerated for about five to seven days.

For low acid canned food such as meat, fish, beans, soup, poultry and stew, they should be refrigerated for three to four days

How best to store unopened aluminum cans?

It is best to store unopened aluminum cans in a cool, dry environment such as in the cupboard or shelves. Unopened cans are commercially sterile and are safe to store at room temperature.

Additionally, unopened aluminum cans containing food products can be stored in the fridge but it is best to transfer the food content into a plastic container or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid and store for a period of three days.

It is also important to pay attention to the storage instructions on the labels of the canned food product for specific guidelines on how to properly store the content in the can.

Why are aluminum cans used as food containers?

Aluminum cans are used as food containers because of various reasons. Below are the various reasons:

Aluminum cans are used as food containers because it protects food against light and air and preserves food quality

Aluminum is the most abundant mineral in the world. This makes them readily available.

Aluminum cans are the preferred metal cans for beverage containers because they are lightweight, durable, and easy to use.

Aluminum cans can be designed into different sizes and shapes to meet the customer’s requirements.

Aluminum cans are easy to crush, recycle and transport from one location to another.

What are the disadvantages of using aluminum cans as food containers?

The following are the disadvantages of using aluminum cans as food containers:

The inner walls of aluminum cans are usually lined with thin plastics to prevent aluminum from having direct contact with the food. This is done to preserve the taste of the food but the plastic lining used may expose consumers to bisphenol A.

Although aluminum cans are recyclable, aluminum smelting may result in smog and acid rain because it gives off sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide

Aluminum cans have sharp edges and pose a risk of injury if not carefully handled by consumers.

Conclusion

In this short guide, we have addressed the query, “Can aluminum cans go in the fridge?” We have also discussed how long aluminum cans containing unused food should stay in the fridge, how best to store unopened aluminum cans, why aluminum cans are used as food containers and the disadvantages of using aluminum cans as food containers.

Hope you found this blog useful. If you have any questions, please let us know.