Microbiological Analysis of Food Product in Swelled Cans of Low-Acid Foods Collected From Supermarkets1

Abstract

Swelled cans of low-acid food were collected from supermarkets over a 17-month period. Microorganisms were recovered from 47% of the 790 containers tested. Calculations suggested that approximately another 47% of the swelled cans were the result of microbial contamination, although no microorganisms were recovered, while 6% were physically induced (nonmicrobiological) swells. Food type appeared to influence the recovery of microorganisms. Types and incidences of organisms recovered were: 91.6% typical leaker spoilage microorganisms, 0.5% thermophiles, and 7.9% pure cultures of sporeforming organisms traditionally associated with under-processing.