All About Canned corn
Your complete guide to canned corn - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Canned corn Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for canned corn in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
opened fridge3-5 days
Signs of Spoilage
Sour or off-odor (e.g., fermented, moldy), cloudy or slimy liquid, visible mold growth (white, green, black fuzzy spots), discoloration (darker or unusual hues on kernels), mushy or unusually soft texture.
How to Check
Perform a smell test; any sour, fermented, or otherwise 'off' smell indicates spoilage. Visually inspect the liquid for cloudiness or sliminess, and the corn kernels for mold or discoloration. If the texture feels slimy or excessively soft, discard. When in doubt, it's safest to discard.
Storage Tips
Transfer the remaining corn and its liquid to an airtight container (glass or plastic) immediately after opening. Do not store opened cans in the refrigerator as the metal can react with the food, potentially imparting a metallic taste or, in rare cases, leaching metals over time. Proper airtight storage helps prevent absorption of other fridge odors and bacterial growth.
opened freezer6-8 months
Signs of Spoilage
Significant freezer burn (dry, discolored patches, especially lighter color), strong off-odor after thawing, accumulation of excessive ice crystals that aren't surface frost (can indicate dehydration or improper sealing), mushy texture after thawing (due to cell wall damage from freezing/thawing).
How to Check
Visually inspect for freezer burn before thawing. While freezer-burned food is safe to eat, its quality (taste and texture) will be significantly diminished. After thawing, perform a smell test for any off-odors. If the texture is excessively mushy and unappetizing, it's best to discard, though it's likely safe if properly frozen.
Storage Tips
Drain the corn well before freezing (excess liquid can cause freezer burn and expand). Pack in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Leave a small amount of headspace if freezing with a little liquid. Label with the date of freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before use. This method is primarily for extending quality rather than just safety, as opened corn should be consumed within days from the fridge.
unopened pantry2-5 years beyond 'Best By' date, if stored properly.
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging or leaking can, deep dents (especially along seams), rust on the can, a hissing sound or gush of liquid upon opening, foul odor.
How to Check
Visually inspect the can for any damage, swelling, or rust. Do not open a can that appears compromised. Upon opening, listen for a normal 'pop' sound and check for any off-odors before tasting. If it smells sour, fermented, or otherwise 'off', discard immediately.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperature fluctuations. Avoid storing cans directly on concrete floors as moisture can lead to rust. Always check the 'Best By' date but understand it's a quality indicator, not a strict safety deadline for properly stored, undamaged cans. Canned goods are shelf-stable due to commercial sterilization.