Why are dented cans bad in chemistry?

Why are dented cans bad in chemistry?

Botulism, caused by the bacteria clostridium botulinum, occurs when a dent or damage to a can creates even a pinhole-size opening. Dented cans are the biggest culprit of botulism. Avoid buying cans with deep dents, especially ones that affect the top, bottom and side seams of the can.

Is it OK if a can is dented?

If a can containing food has a small dent, but is otherwise in good shape, the food should be safe to eat. Discard deeply dented cans. A sharp dent on either the top or side seam can damage the seam and allow bacteria to enter the can. Discard any can with a deep dent on any seam.

Why you shouldn’t eat out of dented cans?

The USDA says that while rare, dented cans can lead to botulism which is a deadly form of food poisoning that attacks the nervous system. Symptoms include double vision, droopy eyelids, trouble swallowing and difficulty breathing. Leaking and bulging cans can also be signs of compromised canned food.

Will microwave kill botulism?

The germs that cause food poisoning are killed in the microwave by the heat that is produced, not by radiation. “While the botulinum spores can survive in boiling water, the botulinum toxin is heat-labile. Microwaves can be very effective in the reheating process if used correctly.

Is it OK to eat tuna from a dented can?

If a can containing food has a small dent, but is otherwise in good shape, the food should be safe to eat. Discard deeply dented cans. A sharp dent on either the top or side seam can damage the seam and allow bacteria to enter the can.

Will boiling kill botulism?

Because botulinum toxin is destroyed by high temperatures, persons who eat home-canned foods should consider boiling the food for 10 minutes before eating it to ensure safety.

How long does it take to kill botulism in a microwave?

Despite its extreme potency, botulinum toxin is easily destroyed. Heating to an internal temperature of 85°C for at least 5 minutes will decontaminate affected food or drink. All foods suspected of contamination should be promptly removed from potential consumers and submitted to public health authorities for testing.

Can you kill botulism by boiling food?

Will boiling food kill botulism?