Foods you can eat even after expiration date

Illustrative photo (Freepik)

Unused food doesn’t necessarily have to be thrown away immediately. It’s important to inspect them, read the label correctly, and adhere to storage guidelines. Some items can be safely consumed even after the indicated expiration date, according to Coocist.

How to correctly read product labels

We often open the fridge and realize that we still have yogurt or cheese, but it has expired. Despite the product looking perfectly normal, there’s a hesitancy to consume it.

However, experts argue that one shouldn’t rush to discard such products immediately, as most often, the manufacturer specifies the recommended shelf life on the packaging. If the product has been stored properly, looks normal, and hasn’t lost its taste characteristics, there’s no need to throw it away.

Much depends on the type of product and its storage method. Therefore, carefully read the label and inspect the product before consuming it.

Pay attention to the expiration date on the product. If only the date of expiration is mentioned, it’s advisable not to consume the product after that date. If it says “best if used within,” it’s quite likely that the food is still suitable for consumption.

Next, inspect the product itself – it should not have mold, signs of decay, an unpleasant odor, mysterious lumps, or other signs of spoilage.

Foods that can be consumed after the expiration date

Food expert and owner of a discounted food sales website, Dan Kluderay, has listed 10 products that can be consumed even after the expiration date.

1. Packaged potato chips. They may not be very healthy due to the high salt content, but it helps extend the shelf life of the product.

2. Chocolate. The sugar content in these sweet products significantly extends their preservation.

3. Ketchup. Proper storage in a cool and dry place is crucial for this product. When stored correctly, ketchup can be suitable for consumption even a year after the expiration date on the packaging.

4. Yogurts. Many yogurts have a shelf life of several weeks and may not lose their taste qualities for up to 6 weeks after the expiration date. Such products need careful inspection for spoilage after opening.

5. Hard cheese or spiced cheese. The shelf life of these products rarely expires. Hard cheese may develop mold or a film, but it can be easily removed. However, strict adherence to the expiration date is necessary for soft cheeses.

6. Pasteurized milk. Such milk is usually absolutely fine after the expiration date. However, if it smells unpleasant or has thickened, it’s best not to use it.

7. Eggs. Place eggs in a bowl of water: if they float – there’s gas and bacteria inside, and they should be discarded. If they sink – they are likely safe to eat.

8. Bread. Stale bread can be consumed as is or turned into croutons or breadcrumbs. But there should be no white spots or mold.

9. Rice. Like pasta, rice can be stored for several months after the expiration date, but only in a dry, dark, and cool place.

10. Fruits and vegetables. Carefully inspect the products – there should be no mold, black or white spots, excessive drying, wet spots, or changes in color. If none of these signs are present, the food can be consumed.