High-acid canned foods such as tomatoes can be stored on the shelf for 12 to18 months if cans are kept in cool, dry, clean places. Low-acid canned foods such as meat, chicken and most vegetables can be stored on the shelf for two to five years.
Many companies now include a "best if used by" date on their canned food products. After this date, the food may still be safe to eat, but the quality of the product may be affected.