Imagine a world where you always have a nutritious meal ready, no matter what. Sounds good, right? But when it comes to stocking up your pantry for the long haul, choosing the best canned meats can feel like a puzzle. You want something that lasts, tastes good, and keeps your family fed. It’s tough to know which brands are reliable and which ones might leave you with a bland meal when you need it most.
That’s where this guide comes in! We’re diving deep into the world of canned meats perfect for long-term storage. You’ll learn exactly what to look for, how to pick the winners, and why certain options are the champions of your pantry. By the end of this post, you’ll have the confidence to fill your shelves with delicious and dependable canned meats.
Get ready to discover the secrets to building a robust and tasty food supply. Let’s explore the best canned meats that stand the test of time!
Our Top 5 Canned Meats For Long Term Storage Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Canned Meats For Long Term Storage Detailed Reviews
1. Werling Canned Bacon 12 Oz – Smoke Flavor Added
Rating: 9.4/10
Craving that smoky bacon flavor without the fuss? The Werling Canned Bacon 12 Oz delivers just that! This fully cooked, shelf-stable bacon is your go-to for convenience, whether you’re planning for emergencies, heading out camping, or just want a quick protein boost for any meal. Made with 100% real bacon, it’s ready to eat straight from the can or can be heated for that perfect crispy texture.
What We Like:
- PREMIUM CANNED BACON: Enjoy delicious, fully cooked bacon with a rich, smoky taste.
- FULLY COOKED & READY TO EAT: No cooking or prep needed – just open and enjoy!
- VERSATILE & RECIPE READY: Great for breakfast, sandwiches, salads, or adding to any dish.
- 100% REAL BACON: Made from high-quality pork for authentic bacon flavor.
- CONVENIENT & MESS-FREE: Stays good in your pantry until opened, no refrigeration needed.
- EASY TO USE IN ANY MEAL: Perfect on its own or crumbled into your favorite recipes.
- QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST: Made with premium ingredients for great taste and protein.
- PERFECT FOR PREPPERS & SURVIVALISTS: An essential for emergency food storage.
- EXTENDED SHELF LIFE: Canned to last for years, ideal for your pantry.
- MADE IN THE USA: Proudly crafted with quality in the United States.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the flavor is good, some might prefer the taste of freshly cooked bacon.
- The texture, while pleasant, may not be as crispy as pan-fried bacon without additional heating.
Werling Canned Bacon is a fantastic option for anyone prioritizing convenience and long-term food storage. It’s a reliable and tasty addition to your pantry.
2. KEYSTONE Meats All Natural Canned Beef
Rating: 8.6/10
Stock up your pantry with the KEYSTONE Meats All Natural Canned Beef, Chicken & Pork Pack. This 3-pack gives you 28 ounces of delicious, fully cooked meat, perfect for emergencies or quick meals.
What We Like:
- All-Natural Ingredients: The beef is 100% premium beef with just beef and sea salt. The chicken is 98% fat-free with only chicken and sea salt. The pork is also just pork and sea salt.
- Ready to Eat: All meats are fully cooked, so you can enjoy them straight from the can.
- Great Source of Protein: Keystone meats provide essential protein to keep you full and energized.
- Versatile: The pork is especially versatile and can be used in many different dishes.
- Long Shelf Life: These cans are shelf-stable and can last for 5 years from the manufacture date, making them ideal for emergency food supplies.
- Made in the USA: All products are inspected by the USDA and made in Lima, Ohio.
- Healthy Options: The chicken is fat-free, carb-free, and gluten-free. The pork is also carb-free and gluten-free.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sodium Content: While only sea salt is listed, some may prefer options with lower sodium.
- Texture: Some users might prefer fresh meat over canned meat for certain preparations, though the chunk style aims to maintain texture.
This Keystone Meats pack offers a convenient and reliable protein source for any situation. It’s a smart addition for your emergency kit or for busy weeknights.
3. HORMEL Canned Ham
Rating: 8.6/10
Looking for a super easy and tasty way to add protein to your meals? The HORMEL Canned Ham, Smoked, 5 Ounce (Pack of 12) is your new best friend in the kitchen! These are fully cooked, bite-sized ham chunks that are ready to eat right out of the can. They’re perfect for busy days when you need a quick and nutritious meal without a lot of fuss. Plus, they’re gluten-free!
What We Like:
- Ready to Eat: No cooking required, just open and enjoy!
- Versatile: Great for sandwiches, salads, or even straight from the can.
- Nutritious: Each serving provides 9 grams of protein and is only 90 calories.
- Gluten-Free: A safe and healthy option for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Convenient Pack: Comes in a pack of 12, so you’ll always have some on hand.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sodium Content: Like many canned meats, it can be high in sodium.
- Texture: Some might find the texture a bit soft compared to freshly cooked ham.
Overall, HORMEL Smoked Canned Ham is a convenient and protein-packed option for quick meals. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a simple way to boost their protein intake.
4. Nutristore Freeze Dried Ground Beef
Rating: 9.2/10
Heading out on an adventure or stocking up for the future? Nutristore Freeze Dried Ground Beef is your go-to for delicious, easy, and long-lasting protein. This pre-cooked hamburger meat is a game-changer for backpackers, campers, and anyone planning their emergency food supply. With a 25-year shelf life, it’s a smart investment for peace of mind.
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What We Like:
- Premium freeze-dried quality, locking in natural nutrition without artificial fillers.
- Incredibly versatile for camping meals, everyday cooking, or emergency preparedness.
- Fully cooked and ready to use; just add water for quick and easy meal prep.
- Proudly made in the USA, ensuring high-quality sourcing and production.
- Each #10 can provides a generous 5000 calories and 400g of protein.
- Comes with a resealable lid for extended freshness after opening.
- Backed by a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.
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What Could Be Improved:
- While convenient, it requires rehydration, which uses water.
- The bulk #10 can size might be too large for very small storage needs or single servings.
Nutristore Freeze Dried Ground Beef offers a fantastic balance of convenience, nutrition, and long-term storage. It’s a reliable protein source that fits seamlessly into any lifestyle, from the trail to your pantry.
5. Werling Canned Bacon 12 Oz Smoke Flavor Added Fully Cooked Ready to Eat Bacon Shelf-Stable Canned Meat Long Term Storage Pantry Staples
Rating: 8.5/10
Craving that delicious, smoky bacon flavor but need something quick and easy? The Werling Canned Bacon 12 Oz pack delivers just that. This fully cooked, ready-to-eat bacon is a game-changer for busy mornings, camping trips, or stocking your pantry for emergencies. Each 12-ounce can is packed with premium-quality bacon, made in the USA, offering a fantastic protein boost whenever you need it.
What We Like:
- Fully Cooked & Ready to Eat: No need to fire up the stove! Enjoy tasty, smoky bacon right out of the can.
- Shelf-Stable & Long-Lasting: Perfect for your emergency food supply or camping gear, this bacon stays fresh for a long time.
- Rich Smoky Flavor: It tastes like real bacon, with that classic smoky taste everyone loves.
- Super Versatile: Great for breakfast, on sandwiches, burgers, salads, or as a crunchy topping.
- Ideal for Emergencies & Outdoors: A reliable protein source for preppers, campers, and hikers.
- Value Pack: Get a dozen cans, so you’re always prepared.
- Made in the USA: You can trust the quality of this premium canned bacon.
What Could Be Improved:
- Texture: While convenient, the texture may not be exactly like freshly fried bacon for some.
- Sodium Content: Like most canned meats, it can be high in sodium, so keep that in mind for daily consumption.
This Werling Canned Bacon is a smart addition to any pantry or go-bag. It offers convenience and a satisfying protein source for many different situations.
Your Guide to Canned Meats for Long-Term Storage
When you’re preparing for the long haul, having reliable food sources is super important. Canned meats are a fantastic option because they last a long time and are packed with protein. Let’s dive into what makes a good canned meat for your pantry.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re picking out canned meats for storage, keep these things in mind:
- Durability: Look for cans that are strong and not dented or rusty. A good can protects the meat inside.
- Ingredients: Simple ingredients are often best. You want to see the actual meat listed first, with minimal added salt or preservatives.
- Type of Meat: Different meats offer different benefits. Chicken, beef, and tuna are popular choices.
- Sodium Content: Some canned meats have a lot of salt. If you’re watching your sodium intake, look for lower-sodium options.
- Packaging Date: While not a strict “expiration,” a more recent canning date means it will likely last longer and taste fresher.
Important Materials
The can itself is a key material. Most canned meats come in steel cans.
- Steel Cans: These are strong and protect the food from air and light, which helps it last. They are usually coated on the inside to prevent the metal from reacting with the food.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things can make your canned meat better or worse over time.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Cool, Dry Storage: Keeping cans in a cool, dark, and dry place is the best way to ensure they last.
- Proper Sealing: A good seal on the can is crucial. It keeps out air and moisture, preventing spoilage.
- Minimal Processing: Meats that are cooked and canned with fewer additives tend to retain their quality longer.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Damage to the Can: Dents, rust, or bulging cans can mean the seal is broken, and the food might not be safe.
- Extreme Temperatures: Storing cans in very hot or very cold places can affect the quality and shelf life.
- Long Periods Past “Best By” Dates: While canned goods are very forgiving, quality can decrease significantly after many years.
User Experience and Use Cases
Canned meats are incredibly versatile. They are a lifesaver in many situations.
- Emergency Preparedness: This is the main reason many people stock up. In case of power outages or natural disasters, canned meat provides a ready-to-eat protein source.
- Quick Meals: On busy weeknights, canned chicken can be easily added to salads, sandwiches, or casseroles.
- Camping and Backpacking: Their light weight and long shelf life make them perfect for outdoor adventures.
- Budget-Friendly Protein: Often, canned meats are more affordable than fresh options, making them a good choice for stretching your food budget.
Using canned meat is usually very straightforward. You just open the can! You can eat it cold, or heat it up for a warm meal. It’s a simple, reliable food that’s ready when you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long do canned meats really last?
A: Canned meats can last for many years, often 2-5 years or even longer, if stored properly. The quality might decrease over time, but they generally remain safe to eat.
Q: What is the best type of canned meat for long-term storage?
A: Chicken, beef (like corned beef or roast beef), and tuna are excellent choices because they are shelf-stable and widely available.
Q: Should I worry about BPA in the cans?
A: Some older cans may contain BPA. Many manufacturers now use BPA-free linings. If this is a concern, look for cans that specify they are BPA-free.
Q: What should I do if a can is dented?
A: If a can has a sharp dent along a seam or is bulging, it’s best to discard it. Minor dents on the side that don’t compromise the seal are usually okay, but be cautious.
Q: Can I freeze canned meat?
A: It’s generally not recommended to freeze canned meat in its original can. The liquid inside can expand and cause the can to burst. If you want to freeze it, transfer the meat to a freezer-safe container.
Q: How should I store my canned meats?
A: Store them in a cool, dry, and dark place, like a pantry or basement. Avoid storing them in places with extreme temperature changes.
Q: Is canned meat safe to eat after the “best by” date?
A: Yes, in most cases. The “best by” date is about quality, not safety. As long as the can is intact and stored correctly, it’s usually safe to eat past this date, though the taste and texture might change.
Q: What are some easy ways to use canned meat?
A: You can make sandwiches, add it to soups or stews, mix it into pasta dishes, or create tuna or chicken salads.
Q: Does the type of liquid the meat is packed in matter?
A: It can. Some meats are packed in water, brine, or oil. Water or brine is usually preferred for longer storage as oil can sometimes go rancid over very long periods, though this is rare.
Q: How do I know if canned meat has gone bad?
A: Look for signs like a bulging or leaking can, rust, or a foul smell when you open it. If the contents look discolored or slimy, it’s best to throw it away.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.