Whether you can eat tomato soup that's two years past its "best by" date generally depends on how it was packaged and stored. If it's canned and the can is in good condition, it's likely safe, but quality may be affected. If it's packaged differently or shows signs of spoilage, it's best to discard it.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Canned Tomato Soup
- Safety: As long as the can isn't damaged (bulging, rusting, severely dented), canned tomato soup is usually safe to eat even two years after the "best by" date. The canning process preserves the food and prevents bacterial growth. The National Center for Home Food Preservation is a good source for information.
- Quality: The taste, texture, and nutritional value may have declined. The soup might be less flavorful or have a slightly different consistency.
- Inspection: Always inspect the can before opening. Discard if you see any of the following:
- Bulging can ends
- Rusting
- Severe dents
- Leaks
- Foul odor upon opening
- After Opening: Once opened, treat the soup like fresh food and refrigerate any leftovers immediately. Consume within a few days.
Other Packaging (e.g., Pouches, Cartons)
- Safety: For tomato soup in pouches or cartons, the "best by" date is a more reliable indicator of quality and safety. These types of packaging don't offer the same level of long-term preservation as cans.
- Inspection: Check for any signs of damage to the packaging (leaks, swelling). If the package is compromised, discard the soup.
- Risk: There's a higher risk of spoilage with these types of packaging if they are significantly past the "best by" date.
General Rule
When in doubt, throw it out. If you are unsure about the safety of the soup, it's always best to err on the side of caution and discard it. Food poisoning is not worth saving a can of soup.
