Decision Tree (Text Version)
When deciding if canned food is safe to eat, ask the following:
- Is the can dented?
- Yes: Go to Yes, the can is dented.
- No: Continue on.
- Is it leaking?
- Yes: Toss it out!
- No: Continue on.
- Does it have rust?
- Yes: Go to Yes, it has rust.
- No: Continue on.
- Is it swollen?
- Yes: Go to Yes, it is swollen.
- No: Continue on.
- Was it frozen?
- Yes: Go to Yes, it was frozen.
- No: The food in the can is safe to eat!
- How dented?
- Small dent: Go to Is it a low-acid food?
- Sharp dent: Toss it!
Is it low-acid food*?
- Yes: Toss it out!
- No: Go to Is it leaking?
- Only on the surface. Go to Is it swollen?
- Yes, inside. Toss it out!
- Yes: Toss it out!
- No: Go to Was it frozen?
- Was it thawed properly?
- Yes: The food in the can is safe to eat!
- No: Toss it out!
*Examples of low-acid canned goods include: canned meat and poultry, stews, soups (except tomatoes), pasta products, potatoes, corn, carrots, spinach, beans, beets, peas, and pumpkin.
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