A neurologist has shared a warning about one type of food that could cause paralysis and even death if consumed. Dr Baibing Chen, also known as Dr Bing on social media, said he refuses to eat canned or tinned foods that are heavily dented, bulging or cracked.
Botulism risk from damaged cans
In a video posted in May last year, the double-board certified neurologist explained that such damage is a red flag for botulinum contamination. He said: "If a can is bulging, cracked or severely dented, that's a red flag for botulinum contamination. This bacteria produces botulinum toxin, which is one of the most potent toxins that we know. And just a small amount can block acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction, meaning your brain can't tell your muscles to move."
He warned that this can result in flaccid paralysis, blurred vision, respiratory failure, and even death if not treated with an antitoxin. According to the doctor, the toxin is tasteless and odourless, so contamination can go unnoticed until symptoms appear. Even heating the food may not neutralise the toxin.
UK food safety standards
Foodborne botulism occurs when someone eats food containing the C. botulinum toxin, often due to improper canning, preserving or cooking. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) echoed Dr Bing's advice, urging people not to eat from bulging, heavily rusted or deeply dented cans, even those bought from supermarkets. The FSA noted that thanks to high food hygiene standards in the UK, the risk of foodborne botulism is low. If in doubt about proper packaging, storage or use-by dates, the FSA advises throwing the food away.
