Ever wonder whether buying dented cans is a good bargain? Are they safe…?
I recently came across an email that highlighted this and I thought it was worth mentioning it to you.

Is it safe to buy dented cans?
This blog is all about bringing you the most relevant food safety tips and research to help you be more informed and aware of potential food safety risks.
I am sure you’ve wondered whether dented cans are safe… You’re at the supermarket and come across a few dented cans discounted to clear.
Here’s what the scientific research shows: You should AVOID ALL DENTED CANS.
That’s it. Pretty simple.
Health food fanatics will tell you to avoid ALL canned foods, but if you do eat canned food, make sure the can is scratch-free, dent-free and most important – make sure there are no leaks of any sort.
The reason not to buy a dented can is that all cans have a lacquered inside surface. That surface can be damaged when it’s dented. The lacquer may crack and contaminate the food.
But, it’s not only the inside lacquer that can cause a health and food safety risk. If the lacquer peels off or cracks, the food may come into contact with untreated metal, causing tainting.
Either way, you want to avoid the risk. It’s not worth the 20 or 50 cent discount.
When a can is severely dented, as shown in the photo above, the all-important seal can be damaged allowing air and bacteria inside the can.
The biggest challenge when considering buying a dented can is that you don’t know how long that can has been sitting there on the shelf.
Trust me, it’s not worth the risk.