Buzz
Disposing of old food, especially when it's stored in jars, can pose a challenge. If you're uncertain about the duration the food has been stored or suspect it may have spoiled, it's essential to take precautions to safeguard yourself and your family from potential illness. Never open a jar of food if you suspect it's spoiled, and always wear gloves when discarding jars of food.
Steps to Follow
Sealing Jars before Disposal
Keep sealed jars intact if you suspect spoilage. If you come across old food jars that appear swollen or moldy, refrain from opening them. Maintain their seal until you can dispose of them properly.
Protect Your Hands with Gloves
Encase the Jars in Sealed Plastic Bags
Secure the Bagged Jars in Heavy-Duty Garbage Bags
Seal the Garbage Bag with Tape
Dispose of the Bagged Jars in the Trash
Dispose of Gloves and Clean Your Hands
Dealing with Leaky Jars
Wear Protective Gloves
Arrange Jars Sideways in a Pot
Boil the Jars in Water
Boil Water for 30 Minutes, Then Remove from Heat
Let Water Cool to Room Temperature
Dispose of Jars, Lids, and Food Waste
Using Bleach for Spills
Wear Gloves for Protection
Create a Diluted Bleach Solution
Apply the Bleach Mixture and Wait
Wipe Away the Bleach with Paper Towels
Clean the Area with Soap and Water
Dispose of Gloves and Wash Hands
Helpful Tips
- Maintain jarred food between 50 and 70 °F (10 and 21 °C) for optimal freshness.
Important Warnings
- Expired canned or jarred food may contain harmful bacteria, which can be deadly if consumed.
- Avoid handling old canned or jarred food if you suspect it's spoiled.
Essential Supplies
Disposal of Sealed Jars
- Sealable plastic bag
- Trash bag
- Tape
- Gloves
Cleaning Leaking Jars
- Gloves
- Pot
- Trash bag
Using Bleach on Spilled Food
- Hand protection
- Bleach solution
- Spritzing container
- Paper towels
- Cleansing agent
- Scrubbing tool
