What You Should Know About Expiration Dates

Here's a quick test to see if the food in your refrigerator passes the fresh test. Take a look at the ketchup and find the expiration date. Is it still good? As surprising as it seems, the life of ketchup once it's been opened is one year. For many people, it's hard to throw things out, especially if they don't seem to be spoiled. But periodically checking all the food in your refrigerator and pantry, means you'll have tastier food and possibly avoid any stomach upsets that can come with food that is not up to par. Many of the products and foods we bring into our homes carry an expiration date of some manner. Some are suggestions like "freshest by", "best if used by" or "best before". These terms are generally guidelines for getting the most out of the product. A box of crackers might have a "best if used by" date that would indicate the crackers might not be as crisp if eaten after the date, however they would still be edible. However an "expiration date" is a completely different kind of date that tells us not to use the product after such a date. Expiration dates are typically reserved for perishables that may not be safe for consumption after the date. So take a look today and make sure everything you're eating is fresh.