How should cans with dents or rust be treated upon receipt?

Cans with dents or rust should be rejected upon receipt because these conditions can compromise the integrity of the can and the safety of its contents. Dented cans may have been subjected to physical shock that could have breached the can’s seal, leading to potential contamination or spoilage. Rust on cans suggests prolonged exposure to moisture, which can weaken the can structure and also indicates possible contamination risks from microorganisms. In a culinary setting, maintaining food safety standards is paramount, and any item that poses a risk of contamination must be discarded to prevent health hazards.

While it may be tempting to inspect them further, or to clean them, these actions do not address the underlying safety concerns posed by physical damage or corrosion. Storing them in a separate area is also not a solution, as it fails to eliminate the risk. Rejecting damaged cans is a proactive approach to ensuring that only safe and sound products are used in food preparation.