flat sour

American  

noun

1. fermentation occurring in canned foods after sealing.

2. canned food so fermented.

---

Etymology

Origin of flat sour

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

flat sour

This "flat sour," which is not at all dangerous from the standpoint of health, must not be confused with the botulinus bacteria, which is an entirely different thing.

From Every Step in Canning by Grace Viall Gray

If the vegetables have been picked for some time and the bacteria have had a chance "to work," and you are not exceedingly careful about your canning, you may develop "flat sour" in the soup.

From Every Step in Canning by Grace Viall Gray

Mr. Harris suggested that probably that was a flat sour.

From Northern Nut Growers Association Incorporated 39th Annual Report at Norris, Tenn. September 13-15 1948 by Northern Nut Growers Association

In some cases of flat sour, a milky deposit appears in the bottom of the jar which can be detected if the container is glass.

From School and Home Cooking by Carlotta Cherryholmes Greer

Unless this is done, they will develop a bad flavor because of flat sour, a condition that results from the action of certain bacteria.

From Woman's Institute Library of Cookery Volume 5: Fruit and Fruit Desserts; Canning and Drying; Jelly Making, Preserving and Pickling; Confections; Beverages; the Planning of Meals by Woman's Institute of Domestic Arts and Sciences