The nurse is giving a lecture at a health fair when a member of the audience asks: "Why do people say you shouldn't eat foods that come from cans that are bulging, as if the seal has been broken?" How should the nurse respond?

Question

1. "It may be a sign that botulism toxins are present, because the food has been improperly processed and sealed."
2. "Arboviruses may be found in canned foods that appear damaged."
3. "The bacteria Clostridium tetani grows in poorly processed foods or damaged cans."
4. "Open the can, and if no bubbles, bad odor, or change in color is present, you can eat the contents."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1
The botulism bacillus (Clostridium botulinum) is found in the soil. Cases of botulism result from eating improperly canned or cooked foods, especially home-canned vegetables, fruits, smoked meats, and vacuum-packed fish. Signs that food may be contaminated with botulism include damaged seals on a container, gas bubbles, a bad odor, or a color change in the food. A bulging can is a sign that botulism may be present. The can should not be opened or the contents eaten. Arboviruses are spread by ticks and mosquitoes. Clostridium tetani causes tetanus.