When in doubt, it\'s safer to discard suspicious cans

Canned food can cause food poisoning if improperly processed or stored. Botulism, a rare but severe illness, can result from damaged or bulging cans.

Food poisoning in canned foods is very rare if the can is sealed completely. Canned foods have low moisture contents and a much longer shelf life than fresh food. The aluminium can also seals off any harmful pathogens.

Of course, if there is a slight opening in the can, pathogens may get inside and cause contamination, which may ultimately result in food poisoning.