Health Tip: Using Frozen and Canned Foods

(HealthDay News) -- For families on the go, frozen and canned goods can be a lifesaver. But they're no excuse to ignore food safety rules.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers this advice:

• Don't buy or use any cans with dents, bulges or leaks.

• Store all canned produce in areas that are cool and dry. Avoid storing these goods in damp places, such as near the stove or sink, garage or basement.

• For acidic foods such as tomatoes, store only up to 18 months. For non-acidic foods such as meats and vegetables, two to five years.

• Wash cans before you open them to avoid contaminating the contents.

• At the store, select frozen foods from the back of the freezer where they're often kept colder.

• Tightly wrap all frozen foods and date them; make sure they are stored at 0 degrees Fahrenheit or below.

• Never refreeze foods that have been thawed.