Is it safe to eat food from dented cans? We get a lot of questions from customers who have received damaged cans and wonder if the food inside is still safe to eat. While it might be tempting to think that slightly dented cans are harmless, there’s a potential risk of food poisoning when consuming food from damaged containers. Let’s dive into the details of how to determine if a dented can is safe and when to discard it.
How Does Canning Work?
When food is canned, it’s heated to destroy dangerous bacteria and molds, while deactivating enzymes that can cause the food to deteriorate over time. This process seals in freshness and ensures that the food remains safe from contamination, provided the can stays intact. However, damage to the can could compromise this safety.
We want to make sure you're protected when it comes to food storage, and you can learn more about how we protect the food in our cans here.
Checking the Dent
Not all dents are created equal. In fact, minor dents, especially those that are not located near the seams of the can, are usually safe. The key is to check the severity and location of the dent before making a decision.
When to Avoid Eating from Dented Cans
If a dent is located on the seam of the can or is deep enough that you can press your finger into it, it’s safer to avoid using the can. The United States Department of Agriculture defines a deep dent as any dent that allows your finger to fit into it. Bulging ends are another sign of a compromised can, as this indicates air has gotten inside, potentially spoiling the contents.
Other Warning Signs
- Dirty Labels: A dirty or stained label could indicate a leak, which means bacteria might have entered the can.
- Excessive Rust: Rust that can’t be wiped off is another red flag, as it could mean the can has been compromised over time.
- Leaking or Bulging: These are sure signs that the food inside the can is no longer safe to consume.
Potential Risks: Botulism
Though rare, consuming food from dented or compromised cans can expose you to botulism, a potentially deadly form of food poisoning. Botulism affects the nervous system and can be life-threatening if left untreated.
What to Do if You Find Damaged Cans
If you discover a damaged can after purchasing it from a traditional grocery store, check their return policy—most stores will allow you to exchange or return the item with a receipt. However, salvage grocery stores typically do not accept returns, so choose your items carefully when shopping there.
If you receive a dented can from us at The Ready Store, please contact us immediately, and we’ll replace the damaged item or provide a full refund.
When in Doubt, Throw It Out
As with any questionable food product, if you’re unsure about the safety of a dented can, it’s best to err on the side of caution. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Sources: Reader's Digest