Are Dented Cans Safe? Here’s How To Tell

Are Dented Cans Safe?

The first thing I think about when I see dented cans at the grocery store, at home, or wherever… “Are dented cans safe?” If a can of food is dented, it might be unsafe to eat the food contents. BUT, not all dented food cans are nasty. Keep reading… Here’s how to decide.

(article updated with more pictures)

I don’t know about you, but there seem to be a lot of dented cans at the grocery stores these days. Also, dog food cans—I buy them by the case, and there are almost always some dented cans.

Some dented cans of food may be perfectly safe.

Here’s how to tell the difference.

There are several ways to determine whether or not a dented can of food may be safe to eat or, if it should be discarded:

Push on the Top and Bottom of the Can

The seal has probably been broken if the top or bottom moves or makes a popping sound. Air may have made its way inside. Throw out cans that make that popping sound.

If the can does not make a noise or give under pressure when pressing on the top and bottom, it’s probably safe to eat (the seal is still good). But keep reading for more checks.

Dents on Top, Bottom, or Seams

A can has two types of seams: side and end seams.

Side seams are on the side of the can and are usually covered by the label. End seams are on the top and sometimes the bottom of the can. If there is a dent over any of these seams, it may be unsafe.

Please don’t buy cans that are dented on the seams. The main seams are where the can’s strength is the weakest.

The picture below shows two dented cans. Both are considered potentially unsafe. The can on the left is dented across the vertical seam, a crucial detail that you might not notice unless you peel the label. If the dent were not on the seam (as shown in the next section), it would be considered minor and likely safe. This highlights the importance of being responsible and proactive in checking for seam dents when handling canned goods.

The can on the right has a major sharp dent on the top seam, which should be consideredunsafe.

The following picture is a can with a dent on the bottom. Some cans don’t have a seam on the bottom (like this one). The following is likely safe.

Dent on Sides of Can – Probably Okay

Are dented cans safe? If the can is dented along the side, the contents should be safe for consumption, provided you check for the other issues listed here. However, if a dent has sharp or pointed edges, it should be considered unsafe.

Here’s a picture of dented cans. The one on the left only has a minor defect and is likely safe. Although large, the dent does not have sharp edges or creases and does not involve the top, bottom, or side seams.

The can on the right has a significant dent. Two dents. And they come together to form a point. The crease there is potentially unsafe.

Bulging And Bloated Can – Not Safe!

It is unsafe if it’s bulging and bloated (unlike an ordinary dent). Cans will bulge and bloat when bacteria produce gasses, pushing the can outward.

A commenter said, “I’ve worked in a Supermarket 24 years and have seen my share of bloated cans that were still in the cases! They don’t have to be dented to be bloated!”

Is Rust Visible Anywhere on the Can?

Rust will weaken the integrity of the can and may allow air and bacteria to enter, mainly if the rust cannot simply be brushed off.

Does The Can ‘Spray’ Out When You Open It? Not Safe!

When you open a normal can (either with a pull tab or a can opener), you will hear the subtle sound of air entering the can as the slight vacuum seal is released.

However, the contents should NEVER spray outward when the can’s seal is first punctured with a can opener or by pulling the tab. This would indicate the can is under pressure (rather than a vacuum), and bacteria inside the can will cause it to bloat under pressure.

Unusual Odor After Opening?

Use your nose! Abnormal odor after opening? Please don’t eat it. Throw it out.

Dented Cans on SALE at the Grocery Store

Seeing dented cans on grocery store shelves is a somewhat common sight. Most of these are safe, having been dropped or mishandled. They are often put on sale at the discount shelf. By learning how to differentiate between a safe and unsafe dented can of food, you can make significant savings on your grocery bill. Sometimes, these (dented) cans are on sale for a fraction of the price!

WHEN IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT

Having said all that, when in doubt, throw it out.

 
(Information and pictures were gathered from my sightings, grocery store owners, USDA inspectors, and the Department of Public Health.)

 [ Read: Use-by and Sell-by Dates ]

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