Is there a way to interpret the codes on canned goods?

You might be able to use a self serve card reader in your grocery store.

Just explain to the supervisor that you already purchased the food.

Bobby parrish has an app reader.(bobby approved). That is used to tell if the food is good for you. You might be able to use at home? To tell what is inside.

It wouldn’t be too practical to haul hundreds (literally!) of cans to the store just to scan them.

@Strauss There is an app reader by Bobby Parrish. That you can use to identify if a food item is good for consumption. No reason that it can’t be used to identify what is inside.

The app Is on Google Play. Is called the Bobby approved app.

Try weighing the cans then separating by weight. Cans with the same weight probably have the same contents.

Nope, have fun. The codes usually refer to date or time of manufacture not contents.

@KNOWITALL is correct. When I worked in receiving in grocery we were responsible for making $10 scratch and dent boxes. We had many cans without labels and the only time we could tell what they might be is when there were similar sized cans dented that still had a label. The unlabeled cans went into the box as surprises.

Sorry I misunderstood the term code. I thought QR code or barcode. If not mixed with pet food then will be a mystery eat.

Also if anyone has allergies or are vegan/vegetarian.

There is a way to read the codes but the codes are individualized as to the brand. Without labels you won’t know the brand. Also, I know the codes normally only give the creation & expiration dates with most not revealing the content. I would think that the only way to truly know would be to open the can…NOT ideal!!! You might want to consider using a marking pen to write the contents on the lid for future purchases. Somewhat a pain but still better than the can opener surprise meal!!! Have you tried a Google search of the code??? Don’t know if it’s possible but my only suggestion.

I’ve been able to identify some with partial labels by comparing them to items with full or at least identifiable labels, and I have marked them. I can also guesstimate what’s in a can by size and shape. For example, I have a lot of canned beans from one manufacturer. I know if I open one of these cans I’ll get beans, but I don’t know if they’ll be pintos or canceling or chickpeas. Same with condensed soups.

There are websites for this. Also you can call the manufacturer for translation.

I think it’s time to let fate take over. Start having mystery meals and see what your diet looks like!