Here's What an Expert Told Me About Food Expiration Dates

What are food expiration dates?

Expiration dates are set by manufacturers to indicate the last date you should eat or drink a product for the best quality.

Use-by dates and best-before dates are the most common types of expiration dates. A use-by date is the last date that the product is safe to eat. A best-before date is the last date that the food will be at its best quality.

Does food really go bad on the expiration date?

Not always. Expiration dates are not always an exact science. Many factors can affect how long food will last, such as the temperature it is stored at and how it is packaged.

In general, it is best to err on the side of caution and not eat food after its expiration date. However, there are some foods that are safe to eat after their expiration date. These foods include:

Canned food can last for years as long as the can is not damaged.

Hard cheese will last for several weeks past the expiration date, as long as it is properly stored.

Yogurt can last for up to 2 weeks past the expiration date, as long as it is unopened and properly stored.

How can I tell if food has gone bad?

There are a few ways to tell if food has gone bad:

If food has gone bad, it will have a sour or off smell.

If food has gone bad, it will taste sour or off.

If food has gone bad, it may have a slimy or moldy texture.

If food has gone bad, it may have mold or other signs of spoilage.

What should I do if I eat food after the expiration date?

If you eat food after the expiration date, you may experience food poisoning. Food poisoning can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

If you think you have food poisoning, it is important to see a doctor immediately.