Are Bulged Soda Cans Safe to Drink? A Comprehensive Guide

Soda cans that have bulging tops can be a sign of several underlying issues, including overcarbonation, contamination, and temperature changes. In this guide, we will explore these potential problems, provide you with guidelines for determining the safety of your soda, and offer solutions if you find yourself with a bulged soda can.

The Potential Issues

Overcarbonation: Excessive carbonation can lead to pressure buildup, causing the can to bulge. This is a common occurrence in cans that have been stored in environments with rapid temperature changes, such as a vehicle during a trip or in an uncontrolled warehouse. Overcarbonation results in a pressurized container, which can pose safety risks if the can is opened improperly.

Contamination: A bulged can often indicates that the contents have been compromised due to microorganism growth or chemical contamination. This can occur if the can has been inappropriately stored or handled, leading to a potential health risk if the soda is consumed.

Temperature Changes: Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause soda cans to bulge. This is especially true if the cans have been exposed to cold or hot environments, leading to the expansion or contraction of the can material.

General Safety Guidelines

It is generally not safe to drink from a bulged soda can. The bulging can indicate that the can has been compromised in some way, which could lead to foodborne illness or other health risks. It's best to discard any bulged or damaged cans to avoid any potential health issues.

A Personal Experience

I once had the unfortunate experience of my bag tearing and the soda cans falling into the street while walking home from a deli. After recovering as many cans as possible, I noticed that they were bulging on the top. Out of curiosity, I decided to research what to do.

Many online sources suggested the following steps:

Do not open the cans for the night: Leaving the cans in the refrigerator overnight can help to settle the contents. Tap and sit: The next day, tap the top of the can firmly and then place it on a counter to let it sit. This can help to reduce the bulge. Check the temperature: After the can has settled, check if the soda is still cold enough. If not, you can fill a glass with ice and pour the soda into it to chill it down.

I found that this method works, but it's important to note that there is still a risk of the can exploding if the pressure has been significantly increased. It is essential to handle the cans with care and avoid sudden pressure release when opening them.

Scientific Explanation

The pressure inside a 12-ounce soda can varies depending on the temperature. When stored at 4°C, a soda can typically holds a pressure of about 120 kPa, while at room temperature (20°C), the pressure rises to around 250 kPa. If your soda can was dropped, it may have momentarily experienced a dent, but this dent would remain, and the can would be as safe as it was originally, provided it wasn't compromised in any other manner.

The structure of a soda can is designed to withstand a certain amount of pressure. Dropping the can slightly destabilizes the system, but once it settles, it returns to its original equilibrium pressure. However, the dent will remain, and the can should be treated with care to avoid any sudden pressure release.

Conclusion

While a bulged soda can may seem concerning, it's essential to follow the proper precautions to ensure your safety. If the cans have been compromised, it's best to discard them. However, with the right handling and care, you can enjoy your soda even if it has a bulge. Always prioritize personal safety and take any necessary steps to verify the contents before consuming any beverages.