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So, when it comes to canned goods, packaged foods, and pantry staples, the “Best By” or “Best Before” dates are a guide to quality—not an expiration date in the strictest sense.
How to Determine Whether to Keep or Toss
If you’ve got a can or jar sitting in your pantry that’s past the “Best By” date, don’t automatically toss it! Here’s how to assess whether it’s still good:
1. Check for Damage to the Packaging
The first step is to visually inspect the can or packaging. If the item is dented, bulging, leaking, or the can shows signs of rust, it’s time to discard it. These are signs that bacteria or contaminants may have gotten inside, and the product is no longer safe to consume.
2. Smell the Product
After opening the can or jar, give the contents a good sniff. If it smells off, sour, or rancid, then it’s best to discard it. However, if it still smells fresh or has a normal scent for the food, it’s likely still good.
3. Check the Texture and Color
Examine the food for any unusual changes in color, texture, or consistency. For example, if canned fruit looks overly mushy, or if a jar of pasta sauce has separated into layers, it could be a sign that the quality has deteriorated.
4. Taste Test (If It Looks and Smells Fine)
If the can or jar looks and smells normal, take a small taste. If the flavor seems off or different from what you expect, it’s best to toss it. But if the taste is as it should be, then the product is likely safe to enjoy.
5. Storage Conditions Matter
The way a product has been stored also plays a big role in its longevity. If it’s been stored in a cool, dry place, the chances are that it’s still good, even if it’s a bit past the “Best By” date. On the other hand, products stored in fluctuating temperatures or in a humid environment may not last as long.
How Long After the ‘Best By’ Date Is It Safe to Eat?
Here’s a general guideline on how long some common pantry items last past their “Best By” or “Best Before” dates:
- Canned Goods: Most canned foods, if stored properly, can last up to 1-2 years beyond the printed date. Low-acid foods like vegetables and meats last longer than high-acid foods like tomatoes or fruit.
- Dry Goods: Pasta, rice, and cereal can last up to 6-12 months beyond their date.
- Spices: Spices often lose their flavor over time but are usually safe for 1-2 years past the date.
- Bottled Sauces and Condiments: These can last 6 months to 1 year beyond the “Best By” date, though the flavor may fade.
- Frozen Foods: As long as frozen foods have been kept at a consistent temperature, they can last 6-12 months after the date.
When to Toss the Item
There are definitely situations when it’s time to toss the product, even if it’s a little past the “Best By” date:
- Swollen, Dented, or Rusted Cans: These signs indicate possible contamination, and it’s best not to take any risks with food safety.
- Unusual or Off-Scented Foods: If the food gives off a strange odor, it’s no longer worth eating.
- Mold or Discoloration: If you spot mold, particularly on dry goods or preserved food, it’s best to toss the product.
Conclusion: Don’t Toss Out That Can Just Yet
Next time you come across a can or jar in your pantry past the “Best By” or “Best Before” date, remember that it doesn’t automatically mean it’s unsafe or unappetizing. Use your senses—check for any damage, give it a smell, and inspect the food’s texture before deciding to toss it. Many items are still perfectly good to consume beyond their printed dates, saving you money and reducing waste.
So, before you throw out that perfectly good can of beans or jar of peanut butter, take a moment to really assess it. You might just be surprised how long they last after the date.
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