Dont Be Caught Without the Right Canned Food Types Heres What You Need

Introduction

Stocking up on canned food is wise. It's great in a pinch when there's no time for a grocery trip or homemade meal. It can be a lifesaver if an emergency arises. Let's look at the types of canned food you should have in your pantry. Plus, we'll discuss the pros and cons of each type:

• Type 1
• Type 2
• Type 3
• Type 4
• Type 5

Reasons why canned food is essential

Canned food is important for active diets, or for when disaster strikes. They are processed and sealed to keep nutrition and taste for long periods. Plus, cans last up to 5 years! They are lightweight and perfect for trips.

There are many types of canned food: fruit, veg, soups, stews, and more. But not all are ideal for storage. Here are the cans to look out for:

• Fruits: Pick those in unsweetened juices or water. Avoid syrup as these spoil quickly.
• Veg: Look for “no salt added” labels. Avoid veg with added seasonings.
• Meats: Choose cans labelled “low sodium” such as tuna, salmon, and beans. Avoid marinated meats.
• Soups & Stews: Check ingredients labels. Go for short lists. Select cans that need no prep like heating or adding water. These last longer.

Types of Canned Food

Canned food: an essential part of any food storage and emergency preparedness plan! It's easy to store, takes up little room and has a long shelf life. But with so many varieties, how do you decide which is best?

Here we go over the different types of canned food, their benefits and the most ideal types for stocking up:

Canned Fruits

Canned fruits are a great way to get healthy nutrients! They are packed when in season for peak ripeness. You can get them whole, halved, sliced, diced, crushed, or pureed. Usually sweeter than fresh fruit, they contain preservatives like syrup, water, or juice. Plus, they have added vitamins and minerals.

Common types are:

• Pineapple
• Peaches
• Pears
• Fruit cocktail
• Applesauce
• Berry mixes
• Figs
• Apricots
• Tropical flavors like mango and papaya

Enjoy!

Canned Vegetables

Canned veggies are a great way to meet dietary and nutritional needs. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you'll always find something you like. They also go great in pantries, as a basic staple when fresh items are not available. Here are the most common canned vegetables and their benefits:

• Corn: Sweet corn is packed with fiber, thiamine, and folate. It also has some protein, which helps with muscle mass and digestion.
• Green beans: Loaded with vitamin K, green beans are good for strong bones, and vitamins A and C for antioxidants.
• Carrots: High in beta carotene, carrots can help vision health and protect from certain cancers. They also improve skin due to their vitamin A content.
• Peas: Peas have B6, K, and A, plus minerals like manganese, copper, iron, and zinc. They are also a great source of plant-based protein.
• Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes have more antioxidants than fresh. They also have lycopene, which fights cancer. Cooking them helps absorb it better.

Canned Meats

Canned meats are ideal for emergency situations. They're also great for speedy meals. The most common types of canned meats are from beef, poultry, pork, and fish.

• Beef: Beef stew is the go-to option. But there's also ground beef, beef jerky, and beef chunks. These are often mixed with vegetables and a thick broth to add flavor.
• Poultry: Popular poultry items include chicken with veggies, turkey joints or chunks, and duck in broth or as part of an entree.
• Pork: Bacon can't be safely canned, but cured pork products like ham can. Cured pieces and jars of maple-cured lard are also popular.
• Fish: Canned tuna is the most common. There's chunk light, white tuna steak, and albacore tuna fillets packed in oil. Plus salmon, mackerel, and sardines. These are packed in brine or oil for flavor. Some brands sell tins with crabmeat or smoked oysters. And seafood stews with a mix of fish ingredients.

Canned Fish

Canned fish is a great pantry staple. It's high in protein and easy to store for extended periods of time. Plus, it is a great substitute when fresh options aren't available. When purchasing, look for cans with no bulging or swelling. Check the expiration date too.

Tuna is one of the most popular types of canned fish. It's perfect for quick lunch ideas, like salads and sandwiches. It also pairs well with other ingredients for dinner dishes.

Salmon is another type of canned fish. You can get classic smoked salmon, or red curry-scented salmon filets. Most cans provide single-serve portions.

Sardines are classic. They are high in calcium and omega-3 fatty acids. Look for filleted versions with less salt content. Enjoy them with crackers/breads, salads, or even pasta recipes!

Canned Soups

Canned soups are a handy item to keep in your pantry. They offer a yummy and economical meal, side dish or snack. According to the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, half of your food should include fruits, veggies and grains. Canned soups make it a breeze to meet this goal while fitting many dietary needs.

When buying canned soup, look for brands with low sodium broth or water as the main ingredient. If not listed on the label, check the nutrition facts table; soups with lower sodium will have 140 milligrams or less of sodium per serving. Read through the ingredients list on the soup labels for other hidden sources of sodium like MSG or hydrolyzed protein to make sure it fits your desired nutrition plan.

Don't forget flavor! There's tons of flavors available from classic hearty tomato soup to unique creamy cheddar blends and ethnic ladled creations like rasam and miso. Types of canned soups include:

• Chunky
• Creamy
• Condensed
• Stews & Chili
• Ramen Noodle Soup & Bouillon

Canned Beans

Canned beans are an ideal way to get essential nutrition. They come in various sizes, texture, and flavors. Cans of beans range from 3 ounces to 15 ounces. Plus, they can be whole or part of other foods like rice and sauces.

They are great during shortages or emergencies since they don't need refrigerating after opening. Furthermore, they are budget-friendly and provide nutritive value for many dishes. Common canned beans types are black, pinto, white navy, garbanzo (chickpeas), kidney, and cannellini (white kidney). You may come across canned baked beans, but they may have added sugar or salt, making them less healthy.

Remember to look for “reduced sodium” labels when shopping for canned items at the store.

Benefits of Canned Food

Canned food is ideal in an emergency. Plus, it's a budget-friendly option. It lasts longer and is more nutritious than fresh food. Let's explore the advantages of canned food and what kinds you should store in your pantry!

Nutritional Benefits

Canned food is a convenient, essential part of many diets. This is because their nutrition is kept intact for longer than fresh or frozen alternatives. Plus, you don't have to worry about ingredients – SENSEO® Safety Standards tests them for contaminants.

Vegetables and fruits are both nutritious – and canned even adds vitamins like B-12! Studies show that certain canned fruits can have higher levels of nutrients than those sold in clamshells or boxes.

So remember – the next time you shop, consider the variety of nutritious canned options available!

Cost-Effective

Canned food is a great money-saver! Most of the cost goes towards packaging, not spoilage. Plus, it's sold in larger amounts and can be stored without refrigeration, meaning less waste.

Meal planning and grocery store trips can be expensive and time-consuming. With canned food, you can quickly make meals like chili or stew, freeze the extras, and save time and money. Incorporate canned foods into your kitchen routine – it's a win-win!

Long Shelf Life

Canned food products are a great way to stock up! They have long shelf-lives, usually ranging from three to five years. There's no need to refrigerate them before opening. Plus, they are pre-cooked and can be eaten directly from the can – ideal for a quick snack.

Additionally, some canned foods come pre-seasoned or with meal-friendly ingredients, so you can create meals without having to buy extra items. Stocking up on canned food is an easy and cost-effective way to make sure you have wholesome meals, no matter what life throws at you!

Tips for Buying and Storing Canned Food

Canned food can be great! For many occasions and emergencies, it's an ideal way to stock up. There's a lot of different types to choose from, so you need to know what to buy and how to store it.

Let's look at some tips for buying and storing canned food, so you won't be caught without the right items:

Check expiration dates

Be mindful when buying canned food. Check expiration dates. Store in a cool, dry place – between 50-70 degrees F. If it's over 70 degrees, shelf life will lessen. 90+ degrees and it can become unsafe. Write dates on the container/label.

Rotate regularly to avoid spoilage. Avoid direct sunlight. Never leave open tins at room temp – they'll spoil quickly. These tips ensure your canned food stays fresh and safe to eat for a long time:

• Check expiration dates.
• Store between 50-70 degrees F.
• Write dates on the container/label.
• Rotate regularly to avoid spoilage.
• Avoid direct sunlight.
• Never leave open tins at room temp.

Buy in bulk

Go big when shopping for canned food! It has a long shelf life and can be stored without worries of spoilage. Stock up on canned items during sales or with coupons. Check expiration dates before purchasing. Look beyond supermarkets; warehouse stores, dollar stores, and thrift shops often offer cans at discounted prices. Read the label before adding to your cart. Check for dents that could let bacteria in – better to be safe than sorry!

Store in a cool, dry place

Always check the expiry date when buying canned food. Out-of-date cans could provide unhealthy and unsafe food. They are also more likely to leak if stored in a store for too long or exposed to sunlight. This decreases their nutrition, and can cause health problems.

Inspect cans for rust or dents; both are signs of low quality. Bumpy or jagged lids might mean they were not sealed properly, and therefore may be contaminated. Keep cans away from sources of heat and moisture, which could otherwise damage them.

Separate expired items from non-expired ones. Keep track of your stock, so that you can replace expired items before another emergency comes. Store canned products in a cool place, at around 70°F (21°C). Store uncooked foods above cooked ones, to prevent raw juices dripping onto cooked food.

Conclusion

Stock up on canned food items for your pantry! Veggies, fruits, meats, fish – all are essential for emergency food supplies. Plus, having a range of canned food can give you a variety of flavors and textures for meals. Get your cans now!

Summary of the importance of having canned food in your pantry

Stocking your pantry with canned food types is a must! They're affordable and last long – so you can get more bang for your buck. Beans, vegetables, fruits and soups are some of the most versatile. Look for low-sodium options and get them in bulk. Canned food can last up to five years if stored properly. Always check expiration dates to avoid any health risks.

Having a variety of canned food allows you to switch up meals. Plus, you'll be ready for any emergency or disaster. No matter your budget or lifestyle, canned food will make mealtime a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What types of canned food should I buy?

A: It is important to have a variety of canned foods on hand. For example, canned vegetables, fruits, beans, soups, stews, fish, and meats are all great options.

Q: How long do canned foods last?

A: Generally, canned foods can last for up to two to five years, depending on the type of food and the type of can.

Q: How do I store canned foods?

A: Canned foods should be stored in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing the cans to direct sunlight or heat. Check the cans regularly for any signs of rust or damage, and discard any cans that appear to be damaged.