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19. Juice (Unopened)
Pasteurized juice lasts weeks past date unopened; check for bulging cans or bottles.
20. Shelf-Stable Milk (UHT)
Can last weeks or months unopened beyond date; refrigerate after opening.
How to Tell if Food Is Still Safe
- Look: Any mold, discoloration, or swelling? Toss it.
- Smell: Off or sour odors are a no-go.
- Texture: Slimy or sticky textures mean spoilage.
- Taste: When in doubt, a tiny taste can help — but be cautious!
- Storage: Proper storage (cool, dry, sealed) is key to longevity.
Final Thoughts
Expiration dates are useful guidelines, but they’re not strict rules for safety. With careful inspection and common sense, you can confidently consume many foods after their labeled dates — saving money and reducing waste.
Remember: When in doubt, it’s better to be safe than sorry. But don’t let those dates make you throw away perfectly good food!
Want more tips on reducing food waste or recipes using pantry staples? Just ask!
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