Canned foods are harvested when the nutrient concentrations and eating quality are at their highest and are normally cooked and processed from the source within hours, thus preserving more vitamins than their fresh counterparts. The self life code i.e. date of packaging and date of expiry of the canned food is stamped on the can. Normally canned food has a shelf life of at least two years from the date of processing. Canned food retains its safety and nutritional value well beyond two years, but it may have some variation in quality, such as a change of color and texture. Canning of foods is just one type of food preservation. Canned food provides similar amount of vitamins, minerals, fibres, protein as fresh foods. It forms a part of a healthy balanced diet. Canned food provides convenience and diversity to those with a busy life style.