"If the dent has pointed or sharp edges on the sides, two dents meet to form a crease, or the dent is located at the top, bottom, or sides of the can - potentially damaging the seal - you'll want to avoid buying it. Small dents elsewhere may be okay, but if it's the size of your finger, you'll want to trash that can."
"You can also push on the top and bottom of the can to test it; if it gives like one of those push-button lids on a glass jar, you know that the seal is broken and the food inside potentially isn't safe. Bulging and leaking cans are also a no-go."
"Damaged canned goods are also one of the red flags that indicate a bad grocery store as well. If there aren't enough attentive staff members removing damaged items and taking measures to ensure they don't get broken in the first place, what does that say about its other, non-canned products?"
Canned goods are valuable pantry staples offering convenience and nutrition, but damaged cans pose serious health risks. When selecting canned products, thoroughly inspect all sides for dents, blemishes, and other damage indicators. Severe dents—particularly those with sharp edges, creases, or located on seals—can compromise can integrity and allow bacterial contamination. Testing can integrity by pressing the top and bottom helps identify broken seals. Bulging and leaking cans must be avoided entirely. Damaged canned goods also reflect poorly on store quality and staff attentiveness. Discounts on blemished items do not justify potential health hazards from consuming contaminated food.
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