HELPFUL HINTS
Posted: August 5, 2009 at 4:12 a.m.
LITTLE ROCK — DEAR HELOISE: Can you address the safety of using food from dented cans? I was taught to never use them, but my friend does all the time and says as long as it isn't bulged, it's OK. Who is right?
- Susan S., via e-mail
DEAR READER: Remember the old adage "When in doubt,throw it out"? That is the mantra you should follow. According to the USDA Food Safety Department, you should not eat food from cans that are leaking, bulging, rusting or badly dented. Even a tiny puncture can allow bacteria to contaminate the contents. Your family's health isn't worth the risk.
P.S.: Don't buy dented cans! But, if you drop it on the floor at home and dent it, it's OK to open and eat right then.
DEAR HELOISE: Place a tea cozy on your teapot after boiling water. It keeps the water hot longer ... for another cup.
- Kay S. Osborne, Mission Viejo, Calif.
DEAR READER: Any time is a good time for a delicious cup of tea. Here in South Texas, iced tea is the favorite. I do brew fresh tea to make iced tea. Yes, it might be a little more effort, but it tastes so much better. Here is how I learned to brew tea from a dear friend, Mrs. Carey. Put the water on to boil and bring the teapot to the kettle, not the kettle to the pot. Put in 1 teaspoonful of loose tea leaves or a regular-size tea bag (Mrs. C. would frown at tea bags!) per cup. Pour in the boiling water, stir two or three times if using tea leaves, then let steep for 3-5 minutes. It's better to make it stronger and dilute with water than add too much hot water to steep. Here's how to make delicious Anise and Lemon Tea. Crush 3 tablespoons anise seeds and add to 2 cups tea leaves and 1 /2 cup dried grated lemon peel. It's especially tasty with brown sugar to sweeten.
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or e-mail
Family, Pages 37 on 08/05/2009
(Advertisement)
« Previous Story
HELPFUL HINTS
DEAR READERS: Veterinarians tell us that grapes and raisins are hazardous to your dog's health and can be fatal, depending on the size and weight of the dog. Throwing up an... Read »
Next Story »
Check your knowledge
1.Who wrote:"What is so rare as a day in June" ? 2. "Making Our Dreams Come True" was the theme of what situation comedy television show? 3. The deepest lake in the nation ... Read »
Comments
To report abuse or misuse of this area please hit the "Suggest Removal" link in the comment to alert our online managers. Please read our comment policy.
Use the comment form below to begin a discussion about this content.
Registration is required to make comments. Click here to LOGIN.
You can register for FREE to post comments and receive alerts.