Canned food is a convenient and economical way to stock up on groceries, but it can spoil over time. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to tell if canned food has gone bad.
It’s important to know the signs of spoiled canned food so you can avoid any health risks associated with eating contaminated food. Here are some things to look out for when checking if your canned food is still safe to eat.
Appearance and Smell:
One of the most obvious signs that a can of food has gone bad is if the contents have an unpleasant odor or appearance. If it smells sour or off in any way, don’t risk eating it.
Check for Rust:
If the outside of the can is rusty or corroded, then throw it away immediately. Rust indicates that the integrity of the can has been compromised, making it unsafe to consume.
Examine the Seams:
Canned goods should have sealed seams that are free from rust and dents. If you notice any discoloration, bulging or rust around the seams, then this could be a sign that bacteria has made its way inside and spoiled the contents.
Check for Leakage:
If you notice any leakage from the edges of a can, then discard it immediately. Leaking cans mean that bacteria could have already contaminated its contents.
Discard Cans That Have Been Out of Date For Too Long:
It’s not always easy to tell if canned goods have spoiled just by looking at them. To be on the safe side, discard any cans that are past their expiration date as they could potentially harbor harmful bacteria that could make you sick.
Conclusion:
Knowing how to tell if your canned food is spoiled is essential in preventing potential health risks associated with consuming contaminated food. Look out for signs such as rust, discoloration around seams, leakage and expiration dates when checking if your canned goods are still safe to eat.