20 Foods You Can Eat After Their Expiration Date

Many people throw away perfectly good food just because the printed expiration date has passed.

However, these dates often relate to quality, not safety.

In fact, the USDA states that, with the exception of infant formula, expiration dates are not required and do not necessarily mean the food is bad.

Here are 20 foods you can safely eat after their expiration date, as long as they look, smell, and taste good.

1. Eggs

Refrigerated eggs can stay good for 3–5 weeks after their expiration date. Do the “float test”—if they sink in water, they’re still fresh.

Milk

Milk can be safe for up to a week after its expiration date if stored at a cool temperature. Spoiled milk has a sour odor and a thick consistency.

3. Yogurt

Unopened yogurt will last 1 to 3 weeks after the expiration date. Slight separation of the liquid is normal—just stir.

4. Hard cheese

Hard cheeses like cheddar or parmesan can last for weeks after their expiration date. Mold on the surface can be trimmed off.

5. Butter

If stored in the refrigerator, butter can last 1 to 2 months after the expiration date. Store it in the freezer to extend its shelf life.

Bread

If there’s no mold, the bread can be eaten after the expiration date. Store it in the refrigerator or freezer to slow spoilage.

7. Canned food

   Low-acid canned foods (such as beans or vegetables) can last for years past their expiration date if the can is intact.

   8. Pasta

   Dry pasta has a shelf life of 1–2 years after the expiration date. Just keep it tightly closed and dry.

   9. Rice

   White rice can last indefinitely if stored properly. Brown rice has more oils and may spoil more quickly, but it’s still safe even after the expiration date.

   Cereal flakes

   

   Cereal may lose its crunchiness, but is safe to eat even several months after the expiration date if stored in a dry, airtight container.

   11. Peanut butter

   Unopened peanut butter can last up to a year past its expiration date. Opened jars can last several months if stored in the refrigerator.

   12. Frozen food products

   Freezing stops bacterial growth. Frozen meals or vegetables remain safe long after their expiration date, although their flavor and texture may deteriorate.

   13. Chocolate

   Chocolate with a white coating (called “bloom”) is still safe. It may not look perfect, but it’s still edible.

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