20 Foods You Can Eat After the Expiration Date

15. Honey

Expiration Date: Honey is a forever food; it can last indefinitely.

Why You Can Eat It: Honey is a natural preservative due to its low moisture content. It never truly expires, though it may crystallize over time. Simply warm it up to restore its liquid form.

16. Olives

Expiration Date: Olives can last 1-3 months past the expiration date.

Why You Can Eat Them: Olives are preserved in brine, which keeps them safe for a long time. As long as the jar is sealed and the olives don’t show signs of mold, they should be fine.

17. Apple Sauce

Expiration Date: Apple sauce can last 6-12 months past its expiration date.

Why You Can Eat It: If the can or jar is sealed, and the apple sauce has been stored properly, it’s generally safe to eat beyond the expiration date. Just make sure it doesn’t have an off smell or signs of fermentation.

18. Granola Bars

Expiration Date: Granola bars last 3-6 months past the “best by” date.

Why You Can Eat Them: Due to their dry ingredients and preservatives, granola bars are safe to eat well after their expiration date. They may lose their freshness, but they should still be good to eat.

19. Chocolate

Expiration Date: Chocolate can last a year or more after its expiration date.

Why You Can Eat It: As long as the chocolate has been stored in a cool, dry place and hasn’t melted and re-hardened, it’s still safe to eat even after its expiration date.

20. Pickles

Expiration Date: Pickles can last 6 months to a year beyond their expiration date.

Why You Can Eat Them: The vinegar and brine in pickles act as preservatives, allowing them to stay good well past their expiration date. As long as the jar is sealed and shows no signs of spoilage, pickles are perfectly safe to eat.

Conclusion:

While expiration dates are important for quality and safety, they aren’t always a clear indicator of whether food is still edible. Many foods can last far beyond their expiration date if they’re stored correctly and show no signs of spoilage. Always check the packaging, use your senses to assess the food, and when in doubt, trust your instincts.

By understanding these 20 foods you can eat after their expiration date, you can reduce food waste and save money—without compromising your health or taste buds!