Canned tomatoes, whether crushed or whole, are one of the most versatile products that we can buy in the supermarket. With it we can prepare multiple dishes right away, such as pasta Bolognese, ratatouille with vegetables, mussels with tomato, chili con carne or a Murcian salad.
However, before using it we must confirm that it is in good condition. If it has not exceeded the expiration date, it is usually safe to consume it, but a blow, a bad handling in the establishment where we bought it or even in the packaging process could spoil it.
Fortunately, there are some signs that can be useful when it comes to knowing if the food has deteriorated. Food technologist Mario Sánchez has explained it on his Instagram account. “Don’t eat it if it happens to you!” Warns the publication. And to clarify under what circumstances we should not take this product, he shows a damaged can. “Everything seems to indicate that the packaging was defective or that there was incorrect storage in the supermarket itself,” he reports.
After removing the paper packaging, it can be seen that the can is damaged at the base, and that it has some bumps that could have broken the vacuum. This complicates the correct conservation of the food because, if humidity or an inadequate temperature come into contact with the crushed tomato, it can deteriorate. When opening the preserve, it is observed how the product is full of mold and that, therefore, it cannot be consumed.
“It is a rather strange case. This is the first time this has happened to me,” says the technologist, who recommends that when something similar happens to us, we go to the establishment and inform a person in charge so that we can get our money back. “Highly trusted technological sources confirm that it is an error in the closure of the can. The seamer is obstructed by a previous lid, causing the seam to not be done correctly. It is an easy error to detect in visual controls, but sometimes it escapes…”, he clarifies.
In short, we must always check that the cans, including those for fish and other foods, are not swollen, rusty, beaten or leaking. Any of these signs can make them unsafe. One way to check that they can be consumed is to press the top with your fingers. This should not make noise or yield to pressure.
Finally, if it is damp or wet, it is important to make sure that it is not pierced. This can be known by immersing it in hot water: if bubbles come out, it is punctured.
