How to dispose of expired canned food starts with deciding whether it is actually spoiled. For most shelf-stable canned foods, “best by” and similar dates indicate peak quality rather than safety, and intact cans stored in a cool, dry place can last well beyond them. Damaged cans are a different story. Bulging, leaking, or deeply dented cans can signal dangerous bacterial growth and should be thrown out unopened.
Understanding the dates
- Best by, best if used by: quality guidance. Food may be fine after this date if the can is intact.
- Use by: the last date recommended for peak quality.
- Infant formula is the exception: federal rules require use-by dates, and it should not be used after them.
High-acid foods, such as tomatoes and fruit, generally keep best quality for a shorter time than low-acid foods like vegetables and meats, according to common USDA guidance.
When to throw it out
| Sign | Action |
|---|---|
| Bulging or swollen can | Discard unopened |
| Leaking or sticky residue | Discard unopened |
| Deep dent on the seam or rim | Discard |
| Heavy rust that will not wipe off | Discard |
| Spurting liquid or foul odor when opened | Discard; clean up carefully |
| Small, shallow dent away from seams | Usually fine if otherwise intact |
Disposing of bad cans safely
Swollen or leaking cans may contain Clostridium botulinum toxin, which is extremely dangerous even in tiny amounts. Do not open or taste.
- Wear gloves.
- Place the can in a heavy plastic bag, seal it, then place it in a second bag.
- Put it in a trash container with a lid that animals cannot open.
- Wash hands and any surfaces the can touched with soap and water, then a diluted bleach solution if leakage occurred.
Unexpired and still-good cans
Food banks welcome unexpired canned goods. Some accept items past their best-by date for certain products; call to ask. Do not donate dented or swollen cans.
Emptying and recycling
Spoiled but intact contents of cans that are not swollen or leaking can be emptied into the trash or compost, depending on contents, and the cans rinsed and recycled. Steel and aluminum food cans are widely accepted in curbside recycling. Do not open bulging cans to recycle them; throw them out whole.
Pantry and estate cleanouts
When clearing a relative’s pantry, sort into donate, keep, and discard boxes. Bag discards promptly to avoid odors and pests. Our tip on food waste smell helps when bins are not picked up for days.
How to dispose of expired canned food FAQ
Is expired canned food safe to eat?
Many intact canned foods stay safe past best-by dates, though quality may decline. Discard damaged cans.
How do I throw away a bulging can?
Do not open it. Double-bag it, put it in a lidded trash can, and wash your hands.
Can food banks take expired canned food?
Some accept certain items past best-by dates. Call to check their policy.
Can I recycle cans with food in them?
Empty and rinse cans first. Never open swollen or leaking cans to recycle them.
Are dented cans dangerous?
Deep dents on seams or rims can compromise the seal. Small shallow dents elsewhere are usually fine.
The bottom line
How to dispose of expired canned food: check dates and can condition first, keep or donate intact cans where appropriate, double-bag bulging or leaking cans unopened and put them in a lidded trash can, and recycle clean empty cans.
Guides and tools
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