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20 Foods You Can Eat After the Expiration Date

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Absolutely! Here’s a compelling and informative article for **”20 Foods You Can Eat After the Expiration Date”**, ideal for a blog, food safety guide, or sustainability feature:

# 🗓️ 20 Foods You Can Eat After the Expiration Date

**(And Why “Expired” Doesn’t Always Mean Unsafe)**

We’ve all done it—stood at the fridge, holding a container, squinting at the expiration date, and asking ourselves, *”Is this still safe to eat?”* The truth is, **expiration dates are often misunderstood**. Many foods are still perfectly fine—and even delicious—**well past their printed date**.

In fact, learning what you can safely eat after the expiration date not only saves money but also helps reduce food waste. Here are **20 common foods you can usually enjoy beyond the date on the label**—as long as you store them properly and use your senses.

## đź§  First, Understand the Labels

* **“Best by”**: Indicates quality, *not* safety. The product may not be at peak flavor, but it’s still safe.
* **“Sell by”**: Used by stores for inventory—not a guide for consumers.
* **“Use by”**: The manufacturer’s estimate for best quality. Not necessarily a safety deadline.

👉 **Trust your nose, eyes, and common sense more than the date alone.**

## âś… 20 Foods You Can Eat After the Expiration Date

### 1. **Eggs**

Stored in the fridge, eggs can last **3–5 weeks** past the expiration date. Float test them in water: sink = fresh, float = toss.

### 2. **Milk**

If it smells and tastes fine, milk is usually good for **5–7 days** past the date. Organic milk lasts even longer.

### 3. **Yogurt**

Can last **1–2 weeks** past the “best by” date if unopened and refrigerated. Stir to check consistency and smell before eating.

### 4. **Cheese (Hard)**

Cheddar, Parmesan, and Swiss can last **weeks or even months**. Mold on the surface? Just cut it off (at least 1 inch around).

 

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