Many people throw away perfectly good food just because the printed expiration date has passed.<\/p>\n
However, these dates often relate to quality, not safety.<\/p>\n
In fact, the USDA states that, with the exception of infant formula, expiration dates are not required and do not necessarily mean the food is bad.<\/p>\n
Here are 20 foods you can safely eat after their expiration date, as long as they look, smell, and taste good.<\/p>\n
Eggs
\nRefrigerated eggs can stay good for 3\u20135 weeks after their expiration date. Do the \u201cfloat test\u201d\u2014if they sink in water, they\u2019re still fresh.<\/p>\n
Milk
\nNutrition Facts In Milk: What You Need To Know – Fresh Farms
\nMilk can be safe for up to a week after its expiration date if stored at a cool temperature. Spoiled milk has a sour odor and a thick consistency.<\/p>\n
Yogurt
\nUnopened yogurt will last 1 to 3 weeks after the expiration date. Slight separation of the liquid is normal\u2014just stir.<\/p>\n
Hard cheese
\nHard cheeses like cheddar or parmesan can last for weeks after their expiration date. Mold on the surface can be trimmed off.<\/p>\n
Butter
\nIf stored in the refrigerator, butter can last 1 to 2 months after the expiration date. Store it in the freezer to extend its shelf life.<\/p>\n
Bread
\nIf there\u2019s no mold, the bread can be eaten after the expiration date. Store it in the refrigerator or freezer to slow spoilage.<\/p>\n
Canned food
\nLow-acid canned foods (such as beans or vegetables) can last for years past their expiration date if the can is intact.
\nPasta
\nDry pasta has a shelf life of 1\u20132 years after the expiration date. Just keep it tightly closed and dry.<\/p>\n
Rice
\nWhite rice can last indefinitely if stored properly. Brown rice has more oils and may spoil more quickly, but it\u2019s still safe even after the expiration date.<\/p>\n
Cereal flakes<\/p>\n
Cereal may lose its crunchiness, but is safe to eat even several months after the expiration date if stored in a dry, airtight container.<\/p>\n
Peanut butter
\nUnopened peanut butter can last up to a year past its expiration date. Opened jars can last several months if stored in the refrigerator.<\/p>\n
Frozen food products
\nFreezing stops bacterial growth. Frozen meals or vegetables remain safe long after their expiration date, although their flavor and texture may deteriorate.<\/p>\n
Chocolate
\nChocolate with a white coating (called \u201cbloom\u201d) is still safe. It may not look perfect, but it\u2019s still edible.<\/p>\n
Chips and crackers
\nThey may lose their crispness, but are safe to eat after the expiration date if they are not stale or moldy.<\/p>\n
Honey
\nHoney never spoils. It can crystallize over time\u2014it simply needs to be gently heated to return it to its liquid form.<\/p>\n
Mustard and ketchup
\nThese spices can last months after their expiration date due to their high acidity and preservatives.<\/p>\n
Vinegar
\nVinegar is self-preserving and can last indefinitely. Any cloudiness is harmless.<\/p>\n
Pickled cucumbers
\nDue to their high salt and vinegar content, pickled cucumbers last for months past their expiration date if stored in the refrigerator.<\/p>\n
Soy sauce<\/p>\n
Unopened soy sauce stays fresh for years. Even opened, it can stay fresh for months if stored properly.<\/p>\n
Dried beans and lentils
\nThey may require longer cooking as they age, but they do not spoil easily and can be used even after their expiration date.<\/p>\n
Final tips:<\/p>\n
Always check food for signs of spoilage, such as an unpleasant odor, strange texture, or visible mold. If in doubt, don\u2019t chew it. However, remember that \u201cbest before,\u201d \u201csell by,\u201d and \u201cuse by\u201d dates are primarily about quality, not food safety.<\/p>\n
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always use common sense and follow proper food safety practices.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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