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4. "Expires On"
Only label legally required for: Infant formula (FDA) and some medicines
Food Safety vs. Quality: The Real Rules
âś… Generally Safe After Date (If Stored Properly):
Canned goods (2-5 years past date)
Dry pasta/rice (indefinitely in airtight containers)
Hard cheese (cut off mold, rest is fine)
Eggs (do the float test: bad eggs float in water)
❌ Toss If Expired + These Signs:
Dairy: Sour smell, curdling
Meat: Slimy texture, foul odor
Bread: Mold (even just one spot)
Oils: Rancid smell
Pro Tips to Reduce Waste ♻️
🔍 Trust your senses (smell, sight, texture) over dates
❄️ Freeze milk/meat/bread near its date to extend life
🥫 Canned food dents? Only toss if swollen/leaking
🍌 Use overripe fruit in smoothies or baking
Why This Matters
📉 40% of U.S. food gets wasted due to date confusion (USDA)
đź’° The average family loses $1,500/year tossing good food
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