If liquid sprays out when opened,
it may be a sign of contamination by harmful bacteria
Beware of damaged or deformed canned food
"Canned foods should be stored in places with low temperature fluctuations and humidity"
Experts have issued a warning that harmful bacteria are highly likely to breed inside damaged canned food. They emphasized the importance of checking for deep dents or rust on cans before consuming canned products.
Experts warn that harmful bacteria are highly likely to breed inside damaged canned food. Photo by Getty Images
According to the British Daily Mail, Paul Jackson, a director at waste management company NRC, pointed out that canned foods such as baked beans, tuna, and soup could potentially harbor bacteria that can cause paralysis and death. He explained that if part of the can is dented or if liquid sprays out when the can is opened, it may be a sign of contamination by harmful bacteria.
While the bacteria themselves may not be harmful, storing them in sealed cans or tins can create an oxygen-deficient environment, allowing them to produce highly toxic substances. In particular, if the food is contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a food poisoning bacterium, the neurotoxin produced by this bacterium can cause botulism, a paralytic illness.
It was explained that if part of the can is dented or liquid sprays out when opened, it may be a sign of contamination by harmful bacteria. Photo by Getty Images
Symptoms of botulism include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation, and without timely and appropriate treatment, respiratory paralysis can occur, which may lead to death. The mortality rate is 5 to 10 percent, which is higher than that of other foodborne illnesses.
The report stated, "One victim infected with the botulism bacterium, Claudia de Albuquerque Celada, who is in her twenties, became critically ill after eating canned soup in 2023," and added, "Another victim, Doralys Gos, became paralyzed after consuming contaminated canned food and had to remain in the hospital for about a year."
Consuming cans that are rusty or swollen is also dangerous. Jackson explained, "When a can becomes rusty, the metal weakens and its contents can become contaminated, which is problematic," adding, "Even a small amount of rust can be a sign that the food inside is no longer safe to eat."
He continued, "Swelling is generally caused by gas produced from bacterial activity inside the can," and said, "It is a sign that the food has spoiled and is not safe to eat. To reduce the risk of contamination, any swollen cans should be discarded immediately."
For safe consumption of canned foods, it is best to store them in a place with minimal temperature fluctuations and low humidity. Jackson advised, "The area under the sink is prone to rapid temperature changes and provides an environment where bacteria can easily multiply," and recommended, "It is better to store canned food in a cupboard far from the sink."
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