What is the proper way to store canned food?

Storing canned food properly is essential for maintaining its quality and safety. The correct method entails placing it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. This helps to prevent any potential degradation of the can's contents and maintains the integrity of the can itself. Exposure to heat and light can cause the food inside to spoil more quickly and may even lead to the can experiencing increased pressure, which can result in spoilage or contamination.

While refrigeration may sometimes be appropriate for opened canned goods, it is not necessary for unopened cans. Storing them in a kitchen shelf without regard for temperature and humidity could risk their safety if those conditions are not optimal. Additionally, keeping cans near a heat source poses significant risks, as the increased temperatures may compromise the food's safety and quality over time. Thus, the best storage approach is indeed to maintain cans in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight.