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4. Honey
Honey never truly expires due to its natural antiseptic properties. It may crystallize or darken, but it’s still safe to eat.
5. Desserts
Packaged desserts can usually be eaten 3–4 weeks past their expiration, as long as there’s no spoilage.
6. Canned Goods
Most canned goods remain safe for 3 to 4 years beyond their expiration if stored in a cool, dry place.
7. Hard Cheeses
Cheeses like cheddar or parmesan can be consumed up to a month after expiration. Just cut off any moldy areas.
8. Eggs
Place the egg in a bowl of water. If it sinks, it’s still good. If it floats, discard it.
9. Bread
As long as there’s no mold, bread can be eaten past its expiration. Refrigeration or freezing extends its life.
10. Butter
Butter freezes well. If near its expiration, freeze it to prolong freshness.
11. Yogurt
Unopened yogurt stored in the fridge can last 1–3 weeks after the expiration date. Discard if it smells bad or looks odd.
12. Dried Pasta
Pasta can last several years past its expiration date. Check for unusual smells or discoloration.
13. Salad Mixes
You can eat expired salad mixes if the leaves are still crisp. Remove any slimy or wilted pieces.
14. Frozen Foods
As long as your freezer stays cold, frozen foods are generally safe to eat beyond their printed date.
15. Cookies and Chips
If they don’t smell rancid and the texture is fine, they’re safe to eat even after the date.
16. Chocolate
Chocolate stored in a cool, dry place can be safe for months past the expiration. A white coating (bloom) is harmless.
17. Peanut Butter
Unopened, it can last over a year past the date. Natural peanut butter has a shorter post-expiration shelf life.
18. Cereals
They may lose crunch but are still safe to eat for up to 6 months past the date.
19. Pickled Vegetables
Pickled products can last 1–2 years after the expiration date—even once opened—if stored in the fridge and sealed properly.
20. Condiments (Ketchup, Mustard, etc.)
Unopened, ketchup can last up to 1 year past the expiration. Mustard lasts even longer—up to 2 years. Once opened, consume ketchup within 6 months and mustard within a year if refrigerated.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how expiration dates work can help reduce food waste and save money. Always trust your senses—check the look, smell, and texture of food before eating. When in doubt, safety comes first, but don’t be too quick to throw food away based solely on the date.
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