Expert: Carol Schlitt - 9/3/2007

Question
Hi Carol - we stored extra canned/bottled foods such as spaghetti sauce (Prego, in glass jars), and bar-be-que sauce (in plastic bottles), and peanut butter (Jiff) in our garage this summer during a heat wave; our garage temperature was over 100 degrees F at times.  Is this food still safe to consume?

Answer
Hi Joseph,

While it is not recommended to store canned goods in a hot garage (or a cold one) the food can still be safe to consume if it is completely sealed and there are no signs of leakage. Colors may darken, flavors may change and the consistency of the peanut butter may be changed but as long as the seal was not broken, the food is safe to consume.

Once you open the foods, please inspect for any off flavors or foaming. If this happens, do not eat the food. The only food I am concerned about is the spaghetti sauce, especially if it contained meat. Be especially cautious and observe for any changes.  If noticed -- please discard.

Carol

Carol