9 Surprising Foods You Can Safely Eat Past Their Expiration Date, According to Medical Experts

Noticed an old jar in your pantry? Maybe it’s a can of beans or an unfinished jar of jam from ages ago. You might wonder if you can still use it. Don’t worry! Many pantry staples are safe to eat even after their expiration dates.

Understanding Expiration Dates

Expiration dates can be tricky. While they help us gauge freshness, many foods are still good long after those dates pass. For example, dry pasta, rice, and canned goods can often be consumed safely for years if stored correctly.

According to Dr. Cynthia Odogwu, a family practice physician, “Dry pasta is safe past its expiry date because it has low moisture, which makes it hard for bacteria and mold to grow.”

Safe Staples to Keep

1. Pasta: Can last over a year if stored cool and dry. No signs of spoilage? Then it’s good to eat!

2. Jam: Unopened jars can be fine for six months past the date due to high sugar and acidity, which inhibit bacteria growth.

3. Mayonnaise: Unopened jars are safe for six months after the best before date, thanks to its acidity that kills harmful bacteria.

4. Pasteurized Milk: Unopened milk can be good for up to ten days past its date. A quick sniff can help you decide if it’s still good.

5. Plant-Based Milks: Packaged plant milks can last months past their expiration. They undergo heat treatment that keeps bacteria out, making them a safe choice.

6. Rice and Beans: These dry staples can last for years if stored properly. If they look and smell fine, they’re good to go!

7. Canned Soups: As long as the can isn’t damaged, soups can be safe for four years after the expiration date.

8. Nut Butters: They can often be used several months beyond the date. Just check for rancidity by smelling or tasting.

Trends in Food Waste

The conversation around food waste is growing. Many people are becoming conscious of their habits. A recent survey found that 60% of consumers don’t trust expiration dates, leading them to waste food unnecessarily. This shows a shift towards being more mindful about what we throw away.

Final Thoughts

Always trust your senses. If food looks, smells, and tastes fine, it likely is. There’s no need to toss out perfectly good food just because the date has passed. Instead, make the most of what you have and enjoy those hidden gems in your pantry!

For more on food safety, check out the USDA’s guide on food expiration dates here.

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