Which is a sign that a shipment of canned goods is risky?

Canned goods are essential in food safety and require careful inspection to ensure they are safe for consumption. The presence of rust, dents, or bulging or swollen ends in canned goods is a significant red flag. These physical anomalies can indicate that the can has been compromised, potentially allowing bacteria to enter or that the contents have undergone spoilage. Specifically, bulging cans may be a sign of gas formation from bacteria, suggesting that the food inside could be contaminated.

In contrast, if the labels are intact and untorn, this is a positive sign indicating that the contents are likely properly labeled for safety and use. Similarly, clear labeling of use-by or expiration dates is also a sign that the product has been adequately handled and is within safe consumption limits. Finally, cases that are free of holes and watermarks suggest that the packaging is intact and the cans are in good condition. Thus, these attributes are not indicators of risk but rather signs of good handling and storage practices.