The expiry date on fresh food is not a precise indicator of safety, but rather a guide to its peak quality. It suggests when the food is likely to degrade in flavor, texture, or nutritional value.
Understanding Expiry Dates
Expiration dates, often referred to as "use-by" dates or "sell-by" dates, are often misunderstood. Here's a breakdown:
- "Sell-By" Date: This date tells the store how long to display the product for sale. You can still safely eat the food after this date.
- "Use-By" Date: This date indicates when the product will be at its best quality.
- "Best If Used By (or Before)" Date: This date indicates when the product will have the best flavor or quality. It is not a purchase or safety date.
- "Expiration" Date: Similar to "use-by", this usually refers to quality and not safety, except in the case of infant formula.
Is it Safe to Eat Food After the Expiration Date?
Generally, yes, it is safe to eat food on or even slightly after its expiration date, provided there are no signs of spoilage. Expiration dates are primarily about quality, not safety.
Signs of Spoilage to Look For
Instead of relying solely on the date, trust your senses. Look for these signs of spoilage:
- Appearance: Discoloration, mold growth, slimy texture.
- Smell: Unusual or foul odors.
- Texture: Slimy, sticky, or unusually soft.
- Taste: (If the other signs are absent) A sour or off taste.
Examples of Fresh Foods and Expiry Dates
Here are some examples of fresh foods and how to assess them beyond the date:
- Milk: Check for sour smell and curdling.
- Meat/Poultry: Look for discoloration, slimy texture, and foul odor.
- Eggs: Perform a float test (if the egg floats in water, it's likely spoiled).
- Produce: Check for wilting, bruising, and mold.
Conclusion
The expiry date on fresh food is a guideline for quality, not a strict safety deadline. Always use your senses to assess for signs of spoilage before consuming fresh foods, regardless of the date.
