Is it safe to eat canned food with dents from discounted dented cans at the supermarket?

Short answer

Why people ask this

Shoppers see steep markdowns in supermarket clearance carts and wonder if dented cans are still safe to eat. Store signage often says “cosmetic damage only,” which can sound reassuring despite visible dents. People want to know which dents are acceptable, whether discount bins are vetted by staff, and if low prices mean higher risk. They also worry about botulism in low-acid foods and how to inspect cans quickly in-store.

When it might be safe

• Shallow, smooth dents that are not on or near the top or bottom seams and do not crease the metal
• No signs of swelling, hissing, leaking, or sticky residue on the can or in the discount cart
• Best-by date is current, barcode intact, and the label notes cosmetic damage only
• Dents on high-acid foods (e.g., tomatoes, pineapple) are lower risk than on low-acid foods (e.g., beans, corn, soups), though seams must still be intact
• A reputable supermarket that segregates lightly dented cans and follows a clear policy for discounting cosmetic damage

When it is not safe

• Deep dents, sharp creases, or any damage on or crossing the top/bottom rim or side seams (can compromise the double seam)
• Bulging ends, a domed lid, hissing when pressed, or spurting liquid when opened (signs of gas from spoilage)
• Leaks, rust (especially at seams), or sticky residue in the clearance bin suggesting prior leakage
• Multiple intersecting dents around the rim in heavily discounted cans or cans with scuffed-off lining visible inside after opening
• Cans past their best-by date or with unreadable dates/labels in the markdown section

Possible risks

• Clostridium botulinum growth in low-acid foods if the seam integrity is compromised
• Microbial contamination and spoilage from tiny seam gaps that may not be obvious at purchase
• Chemical leaching or off-flavors if the internal liner is cracked where a deep dent creased the can
• Discount-bin handling can worsen dents through extra jostling, increasing the chance of seam damage
• Buying very old stock in clearance can lead to lower quality even if safety isn’t compromised

Safer alternatives

• Choose an undented can of the same item; many stores will honor the discount if you ask
• Select discounted cans only when dents are minor and far from seams; otherwise pick a non-dented option
• Opt for shelf-stable pouches or glass jars if you’re seeing mostly seam-area dents in the markdown cart
• Favor high-acid canned items when buying discounted dented cans, and avoid low-acid foods if dents are questionable
• Check other aisles for regular-priced cans close to their best-by date that might be manager-specials without damage

Bottom line

Discounted dented cans can be safe when the damage is clearly cosmetic and away from seams, with no swelling, leaks, rust, or odor. If dents affect the rim or seams, or the can shows any sign of compromise, skip it—especially for low-acid foods.

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