How seriously should we be obeying the expiry date on food products? We know that consuming expired food can pose various health risks, ranging from mild discomfort to severe illnesses – is there any leeway around an expiry date?
We’re diving into the dangers of consuming expired food, key indicators to look for, the importance of adhering to safe consumption guidelines.
Understanding expiration dates
Food products typically come labeled with either a ‘best before’ date or an ‘expiration date.’
These dates serve as guidelines for consumers to gauge the freshness and safety of the product. While the best before date indicates the period during which the product is expected to be at its peak quality, the expiration date marks the end of the period during which the product is guaranteed to be safe for consumption.
The dangers of consuming expired food
Food poisoning: Consuming expired food increases the risk of bacterial contamination, leading to food poisoning. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps.
Nutrient degradation: Over time, the nutritional content of food diminishes. Consuming expired products may not only pose health risks but also deprive you of essential nutrients.
Allergic reactions: Ingredients in expired foods may undergo changes that trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. It is crucial to be vigilant, especially if you have known allergies.
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Let’s look at the key indicators of expired food:
Changes in appearance
Visual cues are often the first indicators of food spoilage. Mold, discolouration, and changes in texture are signs that the food has surpassed its prime.
Foul odour
An unpleasant or rancid smell is a strong signal that the food has gone bad. Trust your sense of smell to detect any off-putting odours emanating from the product.
Abnormal texture
Changes in the texture of certain foods, such as sliminess or an unusual hardness, can be indicative of spoilage.
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Tips to stay on the safe side
Adhere to dates
Respect the “best before” and “expiration” dates on food products. These dates are carefully calculated to ensure both quality and safety. Exceptions can be made when foods need it frozen. However, for safety, its advised to honour the date as closely as possible.
Proper storage
Follow recommended storage instructions to prolong the shelf life of products. Refrigerate perishable items promptly and store non-perishables in a cool, dry place.
Use your senses
Trust your senses – sight, smell, and taste – when assessing the freshness of food. If anything seems off, err on the side of caution.
Zero tolerance for certain foods
Some foods, such as dairy, eggs and raw meats, should not be consumed after the expiration date. When in doubt, discard them to avoid potential health risks.
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Feature Image: Unsplash
