Spring is Declutter Time!
Spring Cleaning is here, and that includes your pantry and refrigerator. You will probably find unknown items and “funky” food hidden at the back of cupboards and refrigerator shelves. How to tell if these items are still safe to consume?
The length of time a food can last beyond its expiration date depends on the type of food and how it's stored. Expiration dates, also known as "best before" or "use by" dates, are usually a conservative estimate provided by manufacturers to ensure quality and safety. In many cases, foods can be safely consumed past their expiration dates, although their quality might diminish.
General guidelines for common food categories:
Dry goods (pasta, rice, cereal): These items can last several months to a year past their expiration date if they're stored in a cool, dry place and are unopened.
Canned goods: Unopened canned foods can often last for years beyond their expiration dates, as long as the cans are undamaged and stored in a cool, dry place.
Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese): Generally, dairy products should be consumed by their expiration dates or shortly after. However, some hard cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan can last a few weeks longer if stored properly.
Eggs: Eggs can typically last 3-4 weeks past their expiration date when stored in the refrigerator. To test their freshness, submerge them in a bowl of water; if they sink and lay flat on the bottom, they're still good to eat.
Fresh produce: The shelf life of fruits and vegetables varies widely, depending on factors like ripeness and storage conditions. Some produce, like potatoes and apples, can last for several weeks or even months if stored properly. Others, like leafy greens or berries, may only last a few days to a week past their peak freshness.
Meat, poultry, and fish: It's generally best to consume these items by their expiration dates, as the risk of foodborne illness increases with time. However, if they're frozen before their expiration date, they can last several months in the freezer.
It's essential to use your senses when evaluating food safety. If a food item looks, smells, or tastes off, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Remember, always prioritize safety when consuming food past its expiration date.