Transforming Waste: The Surprising Benefits of Donating Expired Food Instead of Disposing It | Kewanee Voice

Every year, vast amounts of food get tossed simply because they’ve passed their “best by” or “sell by” dates. Many people think these dates mean the food is unsafe, but that’s not always true. In fact, a lot of this food is still perfectly good to eat and could help those facing hunger.

Food pantries, like the Kewanee Food Pantry, are starting to accept some expired items, especially non-perishables like canned goods, pasta, rice, and cereals. Sandy Hill, a board member of the pantry, explains that many mistakenly believe expiration dates are absolute. She emphasizes that most canned foods can still be eaten years after their date. Similarly, frozen foods remain safe long after being stored. According to the USDA, food poisoning bacteria can’t grow in the freezer, so even if the texture changes, it’s usually still safe.

A recent survey by the Food Waste Reduction Alliance found that nearly 40% of U.S. adults throw away food primarily due to confusion about these labels. Understanding the difference between safety and quality could significantly reduce food waste and support families in need.

For shelf-stable foods, the USDA suggests they can last indefinitely as long as the packaging is intact. Canned goods may last for years if the can isn’t rusted or damaged. While items like cereals or cookies might lose freshness or develop a stale taste, they are still generally safe to consume.

People worried about eating expired food might consider donating those items instead of tossing them. This not only helps cut down on waste but also provides sustenance for local families. Donations to the Kewanee Food Pantry can make a real difference in the community. Each box of crackers or jar of peanut butter can find a new home on someone else’s shelf.

The pantry accepts food donations on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. They are currently in need of cereal, soup, and canned vegetables. Additionally, cash donations are welcomed and can be sent to Kewanee Food Pantry, P.O. Box 492, Kewanee.