All About Canned tuna
Your complete guide to canned tuna - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Canned tuna Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for canned tuna 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.
unopened in pantry2-5 years (past 'best by' date if stored properly)
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging or swelling of the can, leaks, deep dents (especially along seams), rust, severe damage to the can, or a foul odor upon opening.
How to Check
Visually inspect the can for any signs of damage, swelling, or leaks before opening. Upon opening, perform a smell test: if it smells 'off', extremely fishy, sour, or putrid, discard it immediately. Do not taste.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. The 'best by' or 'best if used by' date on the can is for optimal quality, not necessarily safety. Properly stored, unopened cans can remain safe to eat for many years beyond this date, though quality (texture, flavor) may diminish over time. If there are any doubts about the can's integrity, it's safest to discard.
opened in fridge3-4 days
Signs of Spoilage
Strong, sour, or unusually pungent fishy odor (beyond its normal smell), slimy or mushy texture, discoloration (e.g., green, dark brown, or grey spots not typical of tuna), visible mold.
How to Check
Perform a smell test: fresh opened tuna has a mild, briny, or slightly fishy smell. If it smells sour, ammonia-like, or strongly 'off', discard it. Visually inspect for any unusual discoloration or mold. Gently poke with a fork to check for sliminess; fresh tuna should be firm. If any of these signs are present, do not consume.
Storage Tips
Transfer any unused tuna from the opened can into a clean, airtight glass or plastic container. Do not store opened tuna in its original metal can, as it can absorb a metallic taste and may promote faster spoilage. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent odor transfer to other foods in the fridge and to maintain freshness.