Is there really an increased risk of botulism from dented canned goods?
by 
Cyndi Ninja
ANSWERS: 4
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yes and no...certain small dents are acceptable... above a certain size of dent and with age of can ...id stay clear.
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You should never ever ever eat food from a can that is bulging as it definitely will be inhabited by a gas producing bacteria (which botulism is). Dented cans, though, are more at risk of other things. You will find that cans have a coating on the inside, and this is there to prevent the food inside the can reacting with the tin of the can itself. Denting the cans may reduce the structural integrity of the can and spoil your food. Botulism is not the main risk, but it is still present. I would personally avoid dented cans if possible, and steer well clear of bloated or leaking cans.
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Yes, and of other things. Dents can harm the structural integrity of the can, allowing microbes inside at ruptured seams. I would avoid them.
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I don't know for sure, buy why take a chance? If you inspect them carefully when you buy them, they should be safe. If a can starts bulging in your cupboard, I wouldn't advise eating the contents! :(
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