Is it Safe to Eat Expired Food?

Learn about the different types of expiration dates: 'Sell By', 'Use By', and 'Best By'. These terms indicate the freshness and safety of food products.

Understand the difference between food safety and quality. Some foods may be safe to consume past their expiration date but may not taste their best.

Always visually inspect food before consuming it. Check for mold, off-odors, and changes in texture. If any of these signs are present, it is best to discard the item.

Familiarize yourself with which foods are more prone to cause foodborne illness after expiration. High-risk items include dairy, meat, and seafood.

Learn how proper storage methods can extend the lifespan of foods, such as keeping refrigerated items at safe temperatures and sealing dry goods tightly.

If food appears okay visually, conduct a smell test. If it smells off or unusual, even if it hasn't reached an expiration date, it’s better to be safe and discard it.

If you choose to consume expired food, cook or reheat it to the recommended temperature to kill any potential bacteria.

Refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines on safe food handling, storage, and consumption.

Be aware of the health risks associated with consuming expired foods, such as foodborne illnesses and food poisoning. Know the symptoms to watch out for.

If you’re unsure about the safety of expired food, it is best to err on the side of caution and either discard it or seek advice from a food safety expert.