Poultry: Shelf Stable Foods
Canned chicken and other shelf stable poultry products last for years unopened because the canning process makes them sterile, but they still depend on an intact can or pouch. Once opened, they turn perishable again and need the same care as any cooked meat.
| Food | Pantry | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canned chicken | 5 years | ||
| Retort pouches or boxes(2 kinds) |
Signs poultry: shelf stable foods have gone bad
- Bulging, dented or leaking cans or pouches
- Hissing sound or spurting liquid when opening
- Off or sour smell that was not there in a fresh can
- Unusual grey or greenish tinge to the meat
- Mould or slime appearing after the container has been opened
Storage habits
Store unopened cans and pouches in a cool, dry pantry away from sunlight and heat. After opening, transfer leftovers to a covered container, refrigerate promptly, and use within a few days. Check cans for damage before buying and again before opening, since dented cans can still be a problem.