Preventing Botulism in Your Food Storage Botulism is rare, but when it happens, it’s deadly. Here’s how to avoid it: Use a pressure canner for low-acid foods (meat, beans, veggies) Add lemon juice, citric acid, or vinegar when canning tomatoes Boil home-canned foods for 10 minutes before eating Avoid storing questionable vacuum-sealed or canned items at room temp unless properly preserved Watch for bulging lids, hissing jars, or foam: toss it if it looks off You won’t smell or see the toxin. Sto