After a Wildfire: Handling Undamaged Canned Foods

Transcript [Music] From Washington State University Extension, thanks for listening to a series of podcasts called Wildfire Food Safety. After wildfires, some food products may be safe to keep. Specifically, commercially canned food when completely sealed and undamaged. Metal used in commercially processed cans is generally considered safe when completely sealed and hasn’t been exposed to high heat which could damage seals or seams. Discard bulging, leaking, deeply dented or rusted cans. For undamaged cans: • Wash the exterior with hot water and detergent, then rinse. • Sanitize with a solution of 1 Tablespoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of cool water, soak for 15 minutes. • Rinse, dry, and re-label. “When in doubt, throw it out.” According to the USDA Food Safety Inspection Service, the cost of replacing food is far less than potential negative consequences. Thanks for listening, I’m Susie Craig. [Music] Resources U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service. (2025). Extinguishing the risk of foodborne illness during wildfires. https://www.fsis.usda.gov/news-events/news-press-releases/extinguishing-risk-foodborne-illness-during-wildfires. Accessed online 8/9/26.