Clearance bins at grocery stores are a tempting spot for bargain hunters. Who doesn’t love snagging a deal on something marked way down? But not every discounted item is a safe bet. Sometimes, items end up in the clearance bin because they’re close to expiring or have been damaged. While some finds are perfectly fine, others could actually be dangerous. It’s important to know what to avoid so you don’t put your health—or your family’s—at risk. In this guide, we’ll look at nine clearance bin finds that could actually be dangerous, and why you should think twice before tossing them in your cart.
1. Canned Goods with Dents or Bulges
Clearance bins often contain canned foods with damaged packaging. While a small dent might seem harmless, cans with deep dents, bulges, or rust can be a serious risk. These imperfections can compromise the can’s seal, allowing bacteria like botulism to grow inside. Botulism is a rare but potentially deadly illness. If you see a can that’s swollen or leaking, it’s best to leave it behind, no matter how low the price. When it comes to clearance bin finds that could actually be dangerous, damaged cans top the list.
2. Expired Baby Formula
Baby formula is sometimes marked down when it’s close to the expiration date. But once the formula expires, its nutritional value can decline, and harmful bacteria may start to grow. Infants have delicate digestive systems, making them especially vulnerable. If you spot a formula in the clearance section, always check the date. If it’s expired—or even close to expiring—skip the deal to keep your baby safe.
3. Refrigerated Dairy Past Its Prime
Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese are perishable. Clearance bins may feature these items when they’re approaching or just past their sell-by dates. Consuming expired dairy can lead to food poisoning from bacteria such as Listeria or Salmonella. Even if the product looks or smells fine, bacteria may still be present. For items that require refrigeration, err on the side of caution and avoid clearance bin finds that could actually be dangerous to your health.
4. Old Deli Meats
Deli meats are a common clearance item, especially when they’re nearing expiration. But these meats can harbor listeria, which continues to grow even in the fridge. Eating expired deli meat can result in serious illness, particularly for pregnant women, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. If you see heavily discounted sliced meat, check the date and packaging integrity before buying—or better yet, skip it altogether.
5. Damaged or Opened Snack Bags
Snack foods like chips, crackers, and nuts often make their way to clearance bins with torn or damaged packaging. An open or ripped bag can let in moisture and bacteria, causing the food inside to spoil or become contaminated. Even if the snacks look okay, you can’t be sure what’s gotten in. When it comes to clearance bin finds that could actually be dangerous, open packages should be a hard pass.
6. Outdated Salad Kits
Pre-packaged salad kits are a favorite for quick meals, but they’re highly perishable. Clearance bins may hold salad kits that are close to, or past, their expiration dates. Greens can wilt quickly, and bacteria like E. coli can thrive in moist environments. Even if the kit looks fresh, if it’s expired, it’s best to avoid it.
7. Expired Over-the-Counter Medications
Sometimes, non-food items like pain relievers, allergy pills, or cold remedies end up in the clearance section. Medications lose potency after their expiration date, and some can even change chemically, making them unsafe. Always check the label for expiration, and never buy medicine from the clearance bin if it’s past its date.
8. Cosmetic Products with Broken Seals
Cosmetics, including lotions, lip balms, and makeup, sometimes turn up in grocery clearance bins. If the seal is broken or the packaging is damaged, bacteria and mold can get in. Using contaminated cosmetics can cause skin irritation, rashes, or even infections. If a cheap face cream or lipstick tempts you, make sure the packaging is intact and the expiration date is valid.
9. Bottled Beverages with Broken Safety Seals
Bottled drinks, such as juices, teas, or sodas, occasionally end up in the clearance bin if their safety seals are broken or missing. A broken seal means the drink could be contaminated. It’s not worth risking your health for a few cents in savings. Always check for an unbroken safety seal before buying any beverage from the clearance section.
Staying Safe While Scoring Deals
Clearance bins can offer great savings, but they aren’t always the safest place to shop—especially when it comes to products that could put your health at risk. Always inspect items for damage, check expiration dates, and be wary of anything that looks or smells off. Remember, some clearance bin finds that could actually be dangerous are easy to spot, but others require a closer look. When in doubt, it’s better to pass on a questionable bargain than to risk your well-being.
What’s the strangest or most questionable thing you’ve ever found in a grocery clearance bin? Share your stories or tips in the comments below!
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