Dented Formula Cans – Formula Discounter

Is It Safe to Use Dented Formula Cans or Boxes? Here’s What You Need to Know

When you’re ordering baby formula online, it’s natural to worry about what happens if it arrives with a dent or damage. In-store, you can easily swap a damaged can for another. But when it’s delivered to your door, you may not want the hassle of a return unless absolutely necessary. So, let’s clear up what’s safe to use and what’s not.

Minor Dents? No Problem!

Most of the time, your formula arrives in perfect condition thanks to our trusted carriers like DHL and UPS. But if your can or box has a minor dent or crease, there’s usually nothing to worry about.

Slightly dented cans: These are typically just surface-level dings that don’t affect the formula inside. As long as the can isn’t punctured, it’s safe to use.

Creased or scratched boxes: If the outer cardboard is a bit damaged but the inner foil packaging is intact, you’re good to go.

When Damage Becomes a Concern

Occasionally, cans or boxes can suffer damage that makes the formula unsafe for your baby. Here’s what to watch out for:

Severely dented cans: If a can has a deep dent, especially near the seams, it could have a small puncture that’s hard to see. This could allow air in, leading to contamination.
Damaged foil seals: For boxed formulas (like those with inner foil pouches), any puncture or break in the seal is a red flag. If you notice powder leaking out or a tear in the foil, it’s best to discard it.

Bulging cans: A can that’s bulging indicates that air has entered, which compromises the formula’s safety.

Rust or moisture: If there are signs of rust, discoloration, or wet patches on the packaging, the formula may be contaminated.

Not Sure? Here’s How to Check

Sometimes, it’s not immediately obvious whether the damage is severe enough to make the formula unsafe. Here are a few tips:

For cans: A small dent is usually harmless, but be sure to inspect for any holes or leaks. The powder should be dry and the seal intact.
For boxes: Check both the outer box and the inner foil pouch. The outer box can look rough, but as long as the foil is untouched, the formula is safe.

What to Do If Your Formula Is Damaged

If you’re ever in doubt, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Feeding your baby contaminated formula can lead to illness, so err on the side of caution. And remember, if you bought it from us, we’re here to help. Just reach out, and we’ll replace any product that isn’t safe to use.

Why Does Formula Sometimes Arrive with Damage?

We take great care to ensure your baby’s formula reaches you in perfect condition. Here’s why you can trust us to deliver safely—and why, on rare occasions, damage may still happen.

How We Protect Your Formula

Careful Packing in Our Own Warehouse: Every can and box is packed by us, using strong, high-quality materials to safeguard your order.
Strict European Standards: European regulations require robust packaging that can withstand long journeys and protect against damage.
Trusted Carriers: We only ship with reliable carriers like PostNL, UPS, DHL, and FedEx, ensuring your package is handled with care from start to finish.

Why Damage Might Still Occur

Even with all these precautions, a few factors are beyond our control:

Customs Inspections: Packages crossing borders may be opened by customs officials for inspection. Unfortunately, they may not always repack your items as securely as we do.
Human Error: Occasionally, even the best carriers might mishandle a package, causing dents or minor damage.
Weather Conditions: Exposure to rain or extreme weather during transit can sometimes weaken the outer packaging, especially if the box gets wet.

These factors are rare and typically result in only minor cosmetic damage that doesn’t affect the formula’s safety. However, if your order does arrive damaged in a way that makes it unsafe, let us know right away, and we’ll send a replacement at no extra cost.

Your baby’s health is our priority, so we’re committed to delivering formula that’s safe, fresh, and ready to use.

Why Damaged Formula Cans Are Different from Other Canned Goods

Unlike canned soup or beans, formula cans are specially designed to keep the contents completely dry and free from contaminants. That’s why even a small puncture can be a problem. Always check for any signs of damage before using.

Quick Recap: When to Use and When to Toss

Your formula is safe to use if:

The can has only minor dents.
The box is creased but the inner foil is intact.

But it’s not safe if:

The can is punctured, leaking, or bulging.
The inner foil pouch is damaged or shows signs of moisture.
There’s rust or damage along the seams.

By carefully packaging your formula and using reliable carriers, we ensure that these issues are rare. But if you ever receive a damaged product, contact us for a swift replacement.