Leaving Veggies in the Can

I believe it is because in the olden days veggies were sold in cans that contained lead, so storing them in the can exposed you to lead poisoning. Also there was a scare in the 70's about a bacterial poisoning through canned goods. All in all, even if we can't think of a reason, it is just really not a good idea. I fight with my husband about this issue, too, and it's very surprising because in all other respects, he is a germ-a-phobic that drives me crazy.

It is STILL not recommended to store pineapple juice in a can. It clearly states on the can to transfer it to a glass or plastic container. I would guess other canned foods would have that advisory on the can if they should be stored otherwise.

I am from the old school of storing nothing in its can. ??? I guess it is better safe than sorry. I think you are ok with your corn, though. :)

It's not because of the lead anymore, but because the acid in certain foods can leech any material from the metal that can be harmful, and I have heard that storing it in the can could also have faster bacteria growth in the food.

Thats great you brought this up. We had been doing it also, and my mom came over and said, the same thing. The lead in the can contaminates the veggies. Thanks for bringing up this topic!!!!

I got this from a FSIS website (food safety inspection service) --

After opening canned goods, store the food in the refrigerator. High-acid canned goods such as tomato products, juice, fruit, pickles, sauerkraut and foods in vinegar-based sauces can be stored 5 to 7 days. Low-acid canned goods, such as meat, poultry, fish, gravy, stew, soups, beans, carrots, corn, pasta, peas, potatoes and spinach) can be stored 3 to 4 days. Although it's safe to store the food in the can, it will retain better flavor if transferred to a glass or plastic storage container.