Foods With Expiration Dates You Should Never Ignore
Sometimes, we come across foods that have passed their expiration date. And if you’re hungry, you might consider looking past the expiration date because it looks perfectly edible. While there are some exceptions to expiration dates on food, sometimes it’s best to just throw it away. Lovefood, a food platform, compiled a list of foods with expiration dates you should never ignore.
“As a general rule, best by, best before and best before end dates all relate to quality assurance, suggesting when the food will be at its peak, rather than being indicators of food safety,” they said. They did point out that in the U.S. product dating is not required by federal law (apart from on baby formula) and the dates on packaging are not an indicator of product safety. But ultimately, if the food looks or smells bad or has an odd texture or color, treat it with caution regardless of the date displayed on the product.
Just Toss It
Regarding expiration dates, you shouldn’t ignore condiments. Many of us have done it, pulled a jar of mustard or bottle of mayonnaise out of the fridge that’s been there longer than we remember. “While it may be tempting to slather said condiment on your sandwich regardless, it’s worth noting that once a jar or bottle is opened, bacteria are effectively invited in,” they pointed out.
Also highlighted was that once opened, mustard will last for up to a year in the fridge. But mayonnaise should be consumed or discarded after two months. Meanwhile, ketchup will often start to go bad after six months, even when stored in the fridge.
Many people believe that cooking oil stays good forever. However, they mention that on average, most cooking oils will last for six months once opened, and potentially longer if stored away from light and heat. Oil that is past its date will develop a rancid, bitter smell and taste, which could find its way into your food.
Also mentioned on their list is soft cheese. They said that if you purchase undated soft cheese from a deli, for example, consume it within one or two weeks. If it smells bad or has black or green on it, then it’s time to toss it.
Take a look at the complete list of foods with expiration dates you should never ignore here.
