5 Food Products Safe to Consume Past Expiration Dates

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - It is general knowledge that food products stocked on the market shelves have expiration dates on them. People often forget it existed before consuming these products.

Concerning expiration dates, Fox News relayed that some products must be consumed even before the "best before" date is exceeded while some products are safe even after the expiration date has passed.

Food with strict "use-by" dates

1. Fish and meats 

The "use-by" date is important due to the potential risk of bacterial growth. 

2. Dairy products

Milk, yogurt, and cheese are also bearers of "use-by" dates. These dates align with the expected time for items to maintain their quality and freshness. 

3. Pre-prepared salads

The salad's ingredients, such as leafy greens or dressing, may no longer be safe for consumption due to potential spoilage or bacterial contamination.

Safe foods to be consumed past expiration dates

1. Dry goods

Noodles, rice, or canned foods often remain safe for consumption beyond their expiration dates if stored in a cool, dry place and if the packaging remains intact.

2. Spices

Dried spices generally do not spoil and can be safe to use past their expiration dates.

3. Packaged snacks

Foods like crackers, chips, and some types of cookies, if properly sealed and stored, can be safe to eat beyond their expiration dates, though they might lose their crispness or flavor.

4. Condiments

Ketchup, mustard, and soy sauce have a longer shelf life due to their high acidity or salt content. They might lose some flavor but are usually safe to consume after the expiration date.

5. Hard cheeses

Cheeses such as cheddar, Parmesan, or Swiss, if properly stored, often can be safe to eat after their expiration dates by cutting the moldy or discolored parts.

Foods that never expire

1. Honey

Due to its low moisture and acidic pH, honey has an indefinite shelf life. It might crystallize over time, but this doesn't indicate spoilage; it can be easily reversed by gentle heating.

2. White rice

When stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry place, white rice can last indefinitely. Meanwhile, brown rice, due to its higher oil content, has a shorter shelf life.

3. Vinegar

Vinegar, with its acidic nature, has an indefinite shelf life. While its taste might change slightly over time, it remains safe for consumption.

YAYUK WIDIARTI

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News