Can you eat spoiled sardines?
Quick Answer
No
Eating spoiled sardines can lead to food poisoning. It’s important to properly store and consume sardines before their expiration date to ensure they’re safe to eat.
How to Tell
Spoiled sardines may have a strong, unpleasant odor, a change in color, or a slimy texture. If the can is bulging or leaking, it’s a clear sign that the sardines are spoiled.
Why It Can Be Risky
Consuming spoiled sardines can lead to foodborne illnesses.
- Food poisoning: This can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
- Botulism: In rare cases, spoiled canned foods can cause botulism, a serious illness that can lead to paralysis and even death.
Safe Method?
Always check the expiration date before consuming canned sardines. If the can is damaged or the sardines show signs of spoilage, it’s best to discard them.
Storage Tips
Store unopened cans of sardines in a cool, dry place.’, ‘Once opened, refrigerate any unused sardines in a sealed container and consume within two days.