Learn to decipher common food labeling terms like 'expiration date,' 'best-by date,' and 'sell-by date,' and understand how long different grocery items last in the fridge or freezer. Based on expert advice and government guidelines, this article helps you navigate food expiration dates and minimize food waste.
We've all likely found ourselves in this situation: reaching for milk from the fridge only to discover it's two days past the expiration date. Despite looking and smelling fine, our instincts urge us to discard it rather than risk getting sick. While expiration dates are intended to keep us safe, it's natural to question if a day or even three days past the mark truly makes a difference.
The truth is, expiration dates are heavily influenced by the type of food and its chemical composition, as explained by food scientist Bryan Quoc Le. In fact, some foods might begin to spoil but remain safe for consumption. \For instance, bread can become hard and stale but is still edible if used in alternative ways, such as for breadcrumbs or stuffing. However, certain foods, particularly animal-based products like dairy and meat, can harbor pathogens that pose a risk if consumed. \Understanding the various food labeling terms and expiration dates can be confusing, especially if you're dedicated to minimizing food waste. I consulted with Quoc Le to decipher common terms and provide clarity. Expiration date often gets confused with a best-by date, but generally, an expiration date indicates when a food is no longer considered safe to eat to avoid illness. This is particularly true for perishable items like milk and other dairy products, which typically change texture, emit a foul smell, and develop an unpleasant taste when spoiled. Other foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and bread, may show signs of mold growth. Determining the expiration of eggs can be a bit trickier, but they can be safely stored for up to three weeks past the expiration date if handled properly, according to the United States Drug Administration (USDA) and experts I've spoken with.
FOOD EXPIRATION DATES FOOD SAFETY BEST-BY DATE SELL-BY DATE EXPIRATION DATE FOOD WASTE FOOD STORAGE
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