Introduction
Expiration dates: how to behave
- Canned products
- Pasta and rice
- Cracker
- Cookies
- Spices
- Packaged milk and cheese
- Egg
- Packaged cured meats
Food can be good for months after the date with proper storage. Do not eat food from damaged packaging as it may have developed bacteria or bad storage.
When is the expiration date not mandatory? It is not mandatory to affix a label indicating the expiry date for fresh fruit and vegetables , bakery and pastry products , sugar and salt , vinegar and wine .
In the case of yeast, for example, the expiry date indicates the effectiveness of the product, and therefore the ability to leaven dough. Fresh brewer’s yeast , which is commercially available in the form of a block, has an expiration date that does not exceed 10 days. The dry one lasts longer, but when the sachet is opened, it should be used within a short time.
What changes after the expiration date?
Phrases such as “expires on” or “do not use after” or “best before” are used on labels indicating the expiration date.
- “Consume preferably by” indicates the day beyond which the nutritional qualities of the food are no longer 100% guaranteed because they could progressively decrease. This type of deadline is also called Minimum Conservation Term (TMC) but this does not mean that from that date onwards the specific food must be thrown away.
- “Best before” or “Expires on” indicate the date by which the product must necessarily be consumed.
Expiration and storage of foods
- For example, milk can be consumed even 4 days after opening, provided it is kept in the rear part of the refrigerator, where the temperature is generally colder;
- Eggs are good for 3-5 days after their expiration date ;
- Ground meat, beef , and poultry are safe if kept in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days after purchase . If you intend to cook them after this time, you need to freeze them immediately;
- Rice or pasta are edible even for up to a year in the pantry . Once cooked and seasoned (pasta or risotto) they can be stored in an airtight container for 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Canned fruit and legumes , once opened, should be consumed within a maximum of 4 days if stored in the refrigerator.
Did you know that…
If the food remains at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it can undergo changes and the formation of bacteria. After preparing a meal, store leftovers quickly to avoid contamination. Furthermore, it is essential to keep the kitchen worktop, and in general the surfaces where food is prepared, clean and free of harmful bacteria. Bacteria can’t grow in freezing temperatures, so freezing extends the shelf life of food. You can freeze meat, vegetables , bread and cheese. If you plan to freeze eggs, beat them first and store them in a sealed container.
