When in doubt, throw it out.

Instead of tossing the can aside, you may wonder: Are dented cans safe?

So, whats the issue with dented cans?

Can of preserved corn on white wooden table

Credit:Getty Images

The biggest hazard associated with dented cans is botulism, a toxin that attacks the body’s nerves.

The bacteriaClostridium botulinumproduces botulinum toxin which leads to botulism in humans.

Are Dented Cans Safe To Use?

A Guide To Canned Food Safety

TheU.S.

Department of Agriculture(USDA) advises consumers to throw away “deeply dented” cans.

Additionally, cans with deep or pointy dents signal a canned food is likely no longer safe to consume.

TheUSDAsays consumers can avoid botulism by:

Carefully inspecting frozen, fully-cooked products.

When you fire up the container, inspect the product.

“Do not use products that are discolored, moldy, or have an off odor.

Do not use products that spurt liquid or foam when opened.

Do not taste the product to determine if it is safe,” the website states.

Can Cooking Canned Food Remove Potential Hazards triggered by Dents?