When should you toss the milk?

A client recently asked me how to know if food, (in their pantry and fridge), was still safe to eat after the date on the package had passed.

Great question. Off the top of my head, I did not have an answer. To my and her credit, I have spent years consulting in the Natural Food’s snacking industry and the answer is not as straight forward as one may think. In fact, some of the answers may even surprise you. 

For instance, the date you see on a food’s packaging does not usually mean that the food is— “armed and dangerous”, aka: Spoiled, after “said date” has passed. It really depends on the type of food and the exact wording on the package. I did a little due diligence to make sure I had my facts straight and absorbed a few new things myself, so let’s break it down.

Let’s start with some low hanging fruit— everyone’s favorite topic: Snacks! I have consulted for a handful of snack and dip brands also answering customer questions and calls (that is interesting, let me tell ya). When we are talking about packaged, shelf-stable goods, like crackers, cookies, roasted seaweed, unrefrigerated bars, dehydrated veggies and chips, you are pretty much always “safe” to consume. Often, these types of foods have a “Use-By Date” which basically means that for the best quality and munching experience, you are going to want to eat by the suggested date, but the food can still be enjoyed after that date too. You will know if the food is unsatisfactory because it will often be stale, or sometimes oils used can taste rancid (sour, or “off”). Rancid oils, gasp!! Rest assured, if you eat roasted nuts and seeds, you are likely already consuming rancid oils, so you are not in “danger” if consuming said “rancid oil”. (However, it will increase inflammation if eaten regularly). As a nutritionist, I recommend opting for raw, un-roasted nuts and seeds. 

The “Best if Used by Date” is similar to the above. You often see it on self-stable goods, in addition to canned goods and spices. Food “may be good for months, or even years after this date with proper storage,” according to WebMD. 

My first client was actually a hummus brand. When I consulted for this sector of brands (notably: hummus, garlic spread and tahini), the products did not contain preservatives so there was nothing to keep them stable after opening. Generally speaking though, these items could still be used after their dates, but only if the seals were still intact and products were properly refrigerated upon arrival. When products require refrigeration, you always have less time to use them, especially when they do not contain additives to preserve shelf-life and their original seal has been broken. You will often see telltale signs of spoilage, like mold, or a strange white foam. 

(If you are rolling your eyes, like “duh, Lauren”— I cannot even begin to tell you how many customer service questions I have answered about this specific question over the years). 

Refrigerated products, such as hummus, tahini, milk, yogurt, deli meats, and salad mixes, often will have a “Sell-By-Date” label. This label is for the grocery store stockist, so that they know when to pull products from shelves. You can eat food after this date. In fact, when product gets pulled, it usually goes into another department so that it can be utilized immediately, and not wasted. For instance, the sealed deli meat might make it’s way onto a pre-packed sandwich, or the milk might head over to the coffee bar. According to WebMD, “dairy products are good for 1 week after the sell-by date. Eggs are safe for 3 to 5 weeks after the sell-by date.” Just make sure you are storing them properly. If you accidentally leave the dairy on the table for a few hours, the risk of it spoiling is going to be greater. 

Products that have “Expiration Dates” are items such as infant formula, baby food, vitamins, OTC medications and baking mixes. These products may not be as effective after their “expiration date”. The yeast in a cake mix may no longer be active, medications may no longer be as effective. 

Avoid wasting food. Don’t just toss food because the date has passed. If veggies look a little forlorn and whitish, they are likely losing their nutrients, but have not necessarily gone “bad”. Cut off pieces of fruits and veggies that feel wet, smell musky, feel smooshy, or have a small plot of mold. When it comes to fresh produce, this is their natural course of life. A bruised apple is not a bad apple. A cucumber with one squishy end is not spoiled. Fresh produce starts to breakdown and decompose, just like it does it the body. 

In summary, unless we are talking about infant formula, or you have a weakened immune system, most dates are suggested courses of action. If you are concerned, taste a product before slathering your toast. If your broccoli looks unappetizing, say bye bye.