Wouldn’t it be nice to know what we can and can’t keep in our fridges and cupboards past the dates suggested on the packaging? Think of the money we’d save! Well luckily for you guys the Popular Today team are here to help so here is a comprehensive list for you.
Please note we do not advise to eat foods past their best before date and you do so at your own risk.
1. Bread
Yes, even though it has a tendency to grow mold if left too long, if you freeze your bread early then it is completely fine to consume for months to come. We’d definitely suggest cutting off any mold before you freeze it though.
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2. Eggs
Another commonly unknown fact is that eggs can typically last 3-5 weeks before any bacteria starts to develop. If you want to test the usability of your egg then gently drop it in to a bowl of water; if it sinks to the bottom on its side then you’re good to go but if it floats to the top then you should hold back from using.
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3. Milk
Isn’t it great to see so many staples on this list, with milk making a surprising appearance, in spite of a lot of old wives tales? Apparently pasteurised milk makes a huge difference, lasting 50% longer than other types. But have no fear, if your milk smells bad and sour, it can still be used for pancakes!
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4. Cereal
Speaking of milk, your cereal is actually totally fine past its ‘Best Before’ date too. You might just have to put up with it being a little stale.
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5. Pasta
Whilst we’re on the subject of dried food, it turns out that items such as pre-cooked pasta can keep indefinitely in your cupboard until you decide to use them.
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6. Canned Goods
Speaking of seemingly endless shelf lives, canned goods can be kept for years if they are stored in a cool dry place away from any sunlight.
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7. Yoghurt
Great news, as long as your yoghurt hasn’t been opened then it can keep up to 2 weeks past its ‘Best Before’ date. The key to yoghurts spoiling lies in the amount of air it comes in to contact with so always try to bare that in mind.
Image source: bbc.co.uk
8. Cheese
Considering that at least half the cheeses in the world are purposely made to go past their ‘Best Before’ dates to enhance taste and flavor, it can come as no surprise that you can eat them for weeks after the suggested date (provided that you cut off any mold).
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9. Meat
Meat has a stricter rule when it comes to ‘Best Before’ dates but nonetheless it is worth taking note of. Experts advise that refrigerated meat can be fine to consume for 2 days after expiration but they strongly suggest smelling it first to make sure it hasn’t gone off.
Image source: bms-food.com
10. Fresh Fruit and Vegetables
This one is all about common sense really. Regardless of the date on the packaging some fruit and vegetables can be fine for many days after their suggested prime. However, if it feels, smells or tastes wrong then follow your gut and throw it away (no pun intended).
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