-
Step 1
First of all you don't have to be intimidated by the expiration date. Expiration dates are more of a suggestion which deals more with quality than safety.
-
Step 2
Know the labels on the expiration dates. If the foods marked "sell by" are still good for several days after. If the foods marked with a "use by" means the food will begin to lose freshness after the date.
-
Step 3
Milk is still fresh for about 3 days after the expiration date on the carton. Just know the more milk stays out in room temperature the faster it will spoil. Be sure milk is kept in the refrigerator as much as possible when not being used.
-
Step 4
Also know the expiration of eggs. They to maintain freshness for up to a month after the expiration date on the carton. To best maximize your eggs freshness be sure to leave them in the carton and not place them on the refrigerator door where it is constantly being opened and losing freshness.
-
Step 5
Canned foods are generally good to eat for a very long time. Although the quality of the food might not be as good as when first purchased but safety wise its still the same.
-
Step 6
While the companies of these foods put general expiration dates on their products the USDA makes their own recommendations. For meat, poultry, and fish products should be consumed within 2 days of purchase.
-
Step 7
If you ever have any doubts about the freshness or the expirations of the products you buy just contact the company. They usually provide a 1-800 number for the consumer on their product's labels.
