Food Safety of Frozen Canned Food

 

More than pipes can freeze during icy weather. Frozen canned foods stored in unheated storage area may cause concern. If canned foods have frozen, they may still be safe to eat. Safety will depend on the condition of the can or jar. To evaluate, consider the following:

Metal Cans

• If the seams are still intact, the food is safe to use. Thaw gradually and store at room temperature.

• If the seam has broken and the food has thawed out, it should be discarded.

• If the seam has broken and food is still cold (below 41F), it may be safely transfer to a container. Store in the refrigerator or refreeze for future use.

• For an extra margin of safety, all low acid foods (meats, fish, poultry and vegetables) must be discarded.

Glass Jars

• If jars have cracked or broken during freezing, discard

• If the seal is still intact, the food is safe to use. Thaw gradually and store at room temperature. Recheck seal once thawed.

• If the seal is broken and food is thawed, discard

• If the seal is broken and food is below 41F, it may be safely transferred to a container. Store in the refrigerator or refreeze for future use.

• All food that is frozen in glass jars should be examined for spoilage before use. All low acid foods (meats, poultry, fish, and vegetables) must be discarded.

General

• Discard any product with an off color or odor. DO NOT TASTE food that looks or smells suspicious. When in Doubt, Throw it Out.

For more information, please contact the Fairfax County Health Department 703-246-2444 TTY:703-591-6435.