All About Canned whole tomatoes
Your complete guide to canned whole tomatoes - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Canned whole tomatoes Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for canned whole tomatoes in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
opened freezer6-12 months (for best quality)
Signs of Spoilage
While food safety is maintained for very long periods in the freezer, quality can degrade. Signs of quality degradation include significant freezer burn (dry, discolored patches, though less common with liquid items), extreme texture changes upon thawing (very mushy or watery beyond typical for frozen tomatoes), or noticeable loss of flavor.
How to Check
Visually inspect for excessive freezer burn. Upon thawing, check for any unusual odors or an unappetizing appearance. The texture will be softer after freezing and thawing, which is normal.
Storage Tips
Transfer contents to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving about an inch of headspace for expansion. Label with the date. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use directly in cooking. Frozen and thawed tomatoes are best used in cooked dishes like sauces, soups, and stews where a softer texture is acceptable.
unopened pantry1-2 years past 'Best By' date
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging or swelling can, deep dents (especially along seams), rust on the can, leaks, foul odor upon opening, visible mold inside.
How to Check
Visually inspect the can for any damage (bulges, leaks, rust, significant dents). If the can looks compromised, do not open. Upon opening, listen for a 'whoosh' of air (indicating a broken seal) or immediately check for an off, sour, or metallic smell. Do not taste if any signs are present.
Storage Tips
Store cans in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperature fluctuations. While safe for a long time, quality (flavor, texture) may degrade over very extended periods.
opened fridge5-7 days
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold (white, green, or black fuzzy spots), sour, fermented, or 'off' smell, fizzy appearance (indicating yeast or bacterial growth), significant discoloration (darker or duller), slimy or overly mushy texture.
How to Check
Visually inspect for mold or discoloration. Perform a smell test for any pungent, sour, or yeasty odors. Check the texture for sliminess. If in doubt, discard.
Storage Tips
Transfer any unused canned tomatoes from the original can into an airtight, non-reactive container (glass or plastic) immediately after opening. Storing in the original can can lead to a metallic taste and is not recommended for food safety or quality.