Some canned foods are actually healthier than fresh.

Canned food may not taste as good as fresh – but in some cases, the level of nutrients is higher. 

The canning process can have a positive effect on some of our favorite pantry items:

• Tomatoes: Levels of lycopene go up when tomatoes are heated and canned. Lycopene helps to protect against heart disease and some cancers.

• Corn: Canned corn has higher levels of lutein, which is good for the eyes. The same is true for canned spinach. 

• Peaches: Canned peaches are in season year round and have more vitamin C and folate than the fresh variety.

• Beans: A can of beans has just as much fiber and protein, but less of the gassy compounds.

• Wild salmon: It’s less expensive by the can and retains its levels of Omega-3s, calcium and vitamin D. Canned sardines and albacore tuna have fairly high levels of nutrients too.

• If your opening cans for health, just be sure to check the ingredients. Canned food is notoriously high in sodium and sugar and you’ll want to choose cans without those additives.