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🧊Refrigerated Foods

Is it Safe to Leave Canned Food Leftovers in the Can?

HowLongFresh ExpertJul 24, 2025

Key Points

  • From a safety standpoint, the answer is yes
  • The United States Department of Agriculture says it's safe to refrigerate canned foods manufactured in the United States directly in the can
  • As detailed here, you may store the opened chicken broth in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days, or freeze it for longer-term storage

Overview

From a safety standpoint, the answer is yes. The United States Department of Agriculture says it's safe to refrigerate canned foods manufactured in the United States directly in the can. That said, the USDA still doesn't advise it. The reason is that canned foods will better retain their flavor and appearance if you transfer them to glass or plastic storage containers after opening. As detailed here, you may store the opened chicken broth in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days, or freeze it for longer-term storage.Is it Safe to Put Hot Food In the Fridge? Should You Store Bread on the Counter or in the Fridge? Power Outages: How Long Does Food Last in the Fridge and Freezer?Long-Lasting Produce Stock up and enjoy Your Questions Answered Steak that's changed color

Key Points

  • From a safety standpoint, the answer is yes
  • The United States Department of Agriculture says it's safe to refrigerate canned foods manufactured in the United States directly in the can
  • As detailed here, you may store the opened chicken broth in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days, or freeze it for longer-term storage

This information applies to: beef, bread, chicken, cranberry, eggs, ground beef, hamburger, pie, potatoes, salad, shrimp, steak, stuffing, turkey

Tags

cooking expiration freezing leftovers refrigeration safety storage thawing

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beef
bread
chicken
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eggs
ground beef
hamburger
pie
potatoes
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shrimp
steak
stuffing
turkey