Have you ever checked the expiration date on your food, wondering whether you should eat an expired carton of milk or a carton of chicken? It’s time to show this data. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), expiration dates are quality guidelines, not safety deadlines. 9 Labels indicate when food is expected to be good and healthy, not after it has spoiled. Here’s a brief overview:
Detecting Spoilage
While most items are past their expiration date, visible dust, an unpleasant odor, an unusual texture, or a bad taste are sure signs of spoilage. Trusting your instincts is often more reliable than relying on written data.
Preventing waste through good storage
Reducing food waste starts with good storage. Keep your refrigerator below 40°F (4°C) and your refrigerator at 0°F (-18°C). Use airtight containers to maintain food quality and extend shelf life.
In short, food expiration dates are a guide to quality rather than safety. By understanding the meaning of labels, storing food properly, and trusting our senses, we can reduce food waste while ensuring our food remains delicious and safe. So think twice before throwing away the last day saying it must be nice to enjoy it