Ever glanced at an expiration date and tossed out something that seemed perfectly fine? You’re not alone, but you might be tossing good food—and money—away. It turns out, many foods are still safe and tasty well past their so-called ‘death’ date. Let’s take a peek at which pantry staples defy the date and save you a trip to the store.
Cereal
Cereal might lose some of its crunch over time, but it’s still perfectly safe to eat. Keep it sealed tight to fend off staleness, and enjoy your morning bowl without the crunch factor. Just avoid any funky smells or tastes.
Canned Foods
These sturdy staples can last way beyond their “best by” dates, thanks to the airtight sealing process that keeps the contents safe from bacteria. Just make sure the can isn’t bulging or damaged, and you’re good to go for a pantry dive anytime.
Pasta
Dry pasta’s shelf life is basically a marathon runner — it goes the distance. Even past its expiration date, as long as it’s stored properly and doesn’t show signs of pests or moisture, pasta remains a reliable dinner base.
Packaged Cookies
Those cookies in the back of your cupboard? They might not be as fresh, but they’re still a treat. The preservatives keep them safe to nibble on, even if they’ve lost a bit of their signature snap. Just watch out for any off flavors.
Dried Beans
Dried beans are the ultimate survivors. They might take a bit longer to cook the older they get, but with enough soaking and simmering, they’ll still make a hearty addition to any meal.
Butter
Unsalted butter, especially when kept in the fridge (or even frozen), can last beyond its expiration date. Its high fat content keeps it from going bad quickly, making it perfectly fine for cooking or spreading.
Condiments
Most condiments are high in vinegar, salt, or sugar, which are natural preservatives. That ketchup or mustard can often last months beyond the date on the bottle, just give it a good shake and a taste test before using.
Bread
Bread might get a bit dry or stale past its prime, but as long as there’s no mold, it’s toast-ready. Revive it in the oven or toaster, and it’s like you’ve just baked a fresh loaf.
Honey
Honey is basically immortal. It might crystallize over time, but a quick warm-up will bring it back to its liquid gold state. So, don’t fret about the date — your honey’s still sweet.
Rice
Like pasta, dry rice (especially white rice) can last well past its label date when stored in a cool, dry place. Brown rice has a shorter life due to its oils, but keeping it cool can help extend its usability.
Yogurt
Yogurt can often be enjoyed a bit after its expiration, thanks to the good bacteria it contains. If there’s no mold or strange smell, it’s likely still good to go for your breakfast or snack.
Nuts
Nuts might go rancid over time due to their oils, but if they’re stored properly (cool and sealed), they can last past their expiration date. Give them a taste test; if they don’t taste bitter, they’re still good for snacking or cooking.
Milk
Smell is the key with milk. If it’s a bit past the date but still smells fine, it’s usually safe for a cereal companion. Just trust your nose and taste buds on this one — they won’t steer you wrong.
11 Simple Snacks for Better Blood Sugar Control
Keeping your blood sugar in check doesn’t mean you have to skimp on snacking. In fact, the right snacks can be your secret weapon in maintaining those levels while still satisfying those mid-day cravings. Pairing up the good stuff—fiber, proteins, and healthy fats—can help to keep blood sugar steady. These snack ideas are as delicious as they are smart for your health.
Read it Here: 11 Simple Snacks for Better Blood Sugar Control
Here’s What I Did To Lose 15 Pounds And Finally See My Abs
A few years ago, after being a CrossFit junkie for 4 years at the time, I decided on a goal: I wanted to finally see my abs and look how I felt I should’ve for the amount of time I spent in the gym. As a mid-30s woman who already ate well and considered myself healthy, it was an interesting journey to see what it took to actually achieve this goal. Here were the things that made the most difference. Spoiler alert: there’s no magic pill.
Read it Here: Here’s What I Did To Lose 15 Pounds And Finally See My Abs
12 Foods To Eat If You Want To Look Younger
We all want that secret recipe for looking younger. Well, it turns out, it’s not just about what you put on your skin, but what you put in your body too. From the creamy avocados on your toast to the dark chocolate you snack on after dinner, some foods have the power to give your skin that youthful glow we’re all chasing. Here’s a list of foods that are not only delicious but can also help you look and feel a bit more vibrant.
Read it Here: 12 Foods To Eat If You Want To Look Younger
Select images provided by Depositphotos.
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
