Q: I have various cans of food that have been in my cupboards for at least 5 years. Are they still good?

Lynne: Well, you should be admired because you actually clean out your cupboards. First off, toss any cans that are bulging. Those are the ones that can kill you. In the realm of the more benign, supposedly most canned goods are in their prime for about one year. In your case, this means that your cupboards will be empty! Get rid of any can that's dented because the seal could be broken, or any that have staining on the sides indicating leakage. One other thing: always clean cans before you open them to remove any contamination that may be present.

Back to Boiling Water 101

Be notified when new recipes are posted and talk with other fans of the show for people who love to eat.
See what it's all about»

Weeknight Kitchen® is a free weekly e-mail newsletter full of new recipes and tips from Lynne and our guests.
Sign up »
This week's newsletter »

The Splendid Table®, is available in podcast form. Follow the Sterns as they travel the country, hear all our unique and wonderful guests and, as always, Lynne takes your calls, downloaded direct to your computer every week.
Get the podcast