Yes, you can keep opened canned tuna in the fridge overnight. It's generally safe to refrigerate leftover canned tuna for a short period, as long as you store it properly. Here are some guidelines to ensure safety and maintain the quality of the tuna:
Transfer to an airtight container: Once you've opened the can of tuna, transfer any unused portion to an airtight container. This will help prevent the tuna from absorbing other odors in the fridge and maintain its freshness.
Refrigerate promptly: Don't leave the opened can of tuna sitting at room temperature for an extended period. Refrigerate it as soon as possible after opening to keep it at a safe temperature and prevent bacterial growth.
Consume within 1-2 days: For the best quality and safety, try to consume the opened canned tuna within 1-2 days. While it may remain safe to eat for a few more days, the quality may start to deteriorate, and it might develop an off taste.
Check for signs of spoilage: Before using the leftover tuna, inspect it for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell, slimy texture, or unusual appearance. If you notice any of these signs, discard the tuna immediately.
Regarding making sandwiches the next day, if the canned tuna has been stored properly in the fridge overnight, it should still be safe to use in sandwiches. However, the taste and texture of the tuna might not be as fresh as when it was first opened. Additionally, the overall taste of the sandwiches could be affected by other ingredients used in the preparation. To improve the flavor and freshness, you can add fresh vegetables, mayonnaise, or other condiments when making the sandwiches.
Always trust your senses when determining the quality and safety of any food, including canned tuna. If you have any doubts about its freshness or if it smells or looks questionable, it's better to err on the side of caution and discard it.