Identifying Spoiled Food

• 1). Check for swelling on the lid. A swollen lid indicates that the food inside of the jar is emitting the gases produced when spoilage occurs.
  
  
• 2). Check the lids vacuum seal for pressure when opening. If the vacuum seal has not retained its pressure, do not eat the food. The vacuum seal protects the food from microorganisms and if the seal is compromised, the food is at risk for contamination.
  
  
• 3). Look for changes in the food by noting any bubbling gasses, mold or fermentation. If liquid squirts out when you open the jar or there is seepage, cloudiness or a foul odor, the food should not be consumed. Yeast growth and visible slime are also indicators of spoilage.
  
  

Proper Disposal

• 1). Wear rubber gloves to prevent exposure to potentially harmful microorganisms. If your skin comes into contact with a jar contents that you suspect are contaminated, you'll need to sanitize. To do this, mix 1 cup of water with 3/4 tsp. of bleach and apply to affected areas.
  
  
• 2). Place the jar in a strong plastic bag, tie it shut, and then place it inside of a second plastic bag. Seal the second bag tightly, and dispose of it in a container outside of your home.
  
  
• 3). Alternatively, flush the contents of the jar down the toilet. Be careful to protect your skin and other surfaces from the spoiled food. Flush your toilet a few times to make sure everything has gone down. Soak the jar in a solution of 1/8-cup of bleach to one gallon of water for at least 15 minutes.