Why do they say "Don't put an open can in the refrigerator"?

It something to do with the reaction of the inside of the tin can to the food once it has been opened. I was always taught to tip unused can contents into another container as it's safer

I've noticed that open cans left in the fridge leach a very noticeable metallic taste into the contents of the open can. Why this doesn't happen when the can is sealed, I don't know.

Also, open contents in your fridge will disperse smells which can be picked up by other things in the fridge. Ever notice how an open cup of water tastes weird in a fridge full of leftover chili? This is where an open box of baking soda comes in handy, it neutralizes many of these smells that circulate.

You don't have to worry about botulism though, that bacteria is anaerobic, meaning it survives in spaces without oxygen (your fridge has oxygen present, more than enough for tiny bacteria).

I do it all of the time. I have not noticed any odd taste but I have plastic lids made for cans. The real reason is the food company lawyers.

And if Jaime got sick from it, she must have left it in there way too long.

Edit: Don't change the pic! I like it. Reminds me of a girl I dated in college.

it is an Old Wives Tale

they used to have Tin cans and they were soldered (with lead)

today they are aluminum or steel - welded or crimped and plastic lined

its against the law

Your pic is scary.

botulism

you can like get sick from it!

you can get bad sick from it !