The USDA says that while rare, dented cans can lead to botulism which is a deadly form of food poisoning that attacks the nervous system. Leaking and bulging cans can also be signs of compromised canned food.

Coke can last for 6-9 months after the date printed on the container if stored properly and unopened.

There is no federal mandate for placing date codes or expiration dates on cans, but companies recommend drinking the sodas before the printed expiration date. Turn the soda can upside down without excessively shaking the can. Look for two lines of text printed on the can. The top line will only be numbers.

Dented cans and food poisoning The USDA says that while rare, dented cans can lead to botulism which is a deadly form of food poisoning that attacks the nervous system. Leaking and bulging cans can also be signs of compromised canned food.

Despite its extreme potency, botulinum toxin is easily destroyed. Heating to an internal temperature of 85°C for at least 5 minutes will decontaminate affected food or drink.

Side seams are on the side of the can and are usually covered by the label. End seams are on the top and bottom of the can. If there is a dent over any of these seams, the can has at least a Major defect, meaning it is unsafe. If a dent has sharp or pointed edges, it is also considered to have an unsafe, Major defect.

It’s perfectly fine to use a can right after you’ve dropped it on the floor, even if it’s a little dented. It’s tempting to buy dented cans that are marked down, but the bargain isn’t worth it. Those cans could contain a dangerous bacteria called Clostridium botulinum.

The onset of botulism is usually 18 to 36 hours after eating the contaminated food, although it can be as soon as four hours and as long as eight days.

Commercially canned foods can be safely eaten straight from the can as long as the container is intact. However, DO NOT use home canned vegetables unless you have the means to boil them for 10 minutes before eating. Don’t taste or use canned foods that show any signs of spoilage!

What is botulism? Botulism is a rare but potentially deadly illness caused by a poison most commonly produced by a germ called Clostridium botulinum. The germ is found in soil and can survive, grow, and produce a toxin in certain conditions, such as when food is improperly canned.

Generally speaking, it’s safe to eat cold soup from the can. Canned soup has already been cooked, so there’s nothing that specifically requires you to reheat or cook it.

Whether it’s a full meal or just a snack, here are some of the best canned survival food options.

• Best Overall: Mountain House Freeze Dried Rice and Chicken XL Can.
• Best Breakfast: Mountain House Freeze Dried Breakfast Skillet XL Can.
• Best Stew: Armour Star Classic Homestyle Beef Stew.