Canned foods are a staple in many households, offering long-term storage and convenience. However, understanding the dates printed on cans can be confusing. Unlike standardized expiration dates, many manufacturers use coded systems that require deciphering. Here’s a breakdown of how to read these codes to ensure your canned goods are fresh and safe for consumption.
Understanding the Problem: No Universal System
The first thing to know is that there is no single standard for dating canned foods. While some cans have clear “use by” dates, many rely on codes that vary by manufacturer. This inconsistency makes it essential to understand the common patterns used.
The lack of standardization isn’t arbitrary. It arises from different production cycles, inventory management practices, and proprietary tracking systems. It means consumers need to be proactive in understanding how each brand dates its products.
How Manufacturers Code Cans
Most manufacturers use a combination of numbers and letters to indicate the month, day, and year of production. Here’s a breakdown of the most common methods:
- Numbers 1-9 for Months: Often, the first digit represents the month – 1 for January, 2 for February, and so on, up to 9 for September.
- Letters for Months: The letter “O” typically stands for October, “N” for November, and “D” for December. Some brands assign letters alphabetically (A-L) to each month, but this can be ambiguous, as “D” could also mean April.
- Two-Digit Day, One-Digit Year: After the month, you’ll often find a two-digit number for the day and a single digit for the year (e.g., “1” for 2021, “2” for 2022).
Decoding Julian Dates
Some manufacturers use Julian dates, which represent the day of the year. January 1st is 1, February 10th is 41, and so on. If the numbers don’t align with standard month/day/year formats, this could be the system in use.
What To Do When You Can’t Figure It Out
If you’re unsure about the code, contact the manufacturer. Most companies provide a toll-free number or website for questions.
“Most manufacturers offer a telephone number or website for consumers with questions about the expiration dates of their products.”
Safety and Storage
Canned foods typically remain safe for two years from the date of purchase, even if the code is unreadable. Proper storage is also crucial: keep cans in a cool, dry place – ideally no warmer than 75°F – to maximize freshness. The Canned Food Alliance recommends this temperature for optimal preservation.
Key Takeaway
Decoding canned food dates requires understanding that no single system exists. By recognizing common coding patterns and utilizing manufacturer resources, you can ensure your canned goods are fresh and safe to consume.
Sources:
- Institute of Food Science and Technology: Date Labelling of Pre-Packaged Foods
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service: Food Product Dating
- Canned Food Alliance: Shelf Life, Storage, and Can Codes
- Neil Jones Food Company: Interpreting NFJC Can Codes for “Best-By” Dates
