Damaged Food

Throw out most food because floodwaters can contain a host of bacteria that may make the food unsafe or cause it to spoil. When in doubt, throw out food that may have been damaged or spoiled in the flood.

Commercially-canned foods are usually safe after being in flood waters if the metal can appears undamaged. Cans should be discarded if they are swollen/bulging at the can ends, rusty, creased or dented in the can seam/lid areas, or crushed. Undamaged cans still must be washed and sanitized before they are opened and used. For additional safety, thoroughly cook the canned food before eating it.

To clean and sanitize cans:

• Mark the contents on lids of cans with indelible ink, and remove paper labels.
• Wash the cans in a strong detergent solution, using a scrub brush.
• Immerse the containers for 15 minutes in a solution of 2 teaspoons chlorine bleach and 1 quart of room-temperature water.
• Air-dry the cans.

Food from the garden is best handled with caution. It's risky to eat any of the produce, so discard it for safety's sake.

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