Expired foods: 5 you can eat and 5 you should throw away now!

1. Yogurt - YOU CAN EAT it (with precautions).

Yogurt is a fermented food: if stored properly in the refrigerator and still sealed, it can be consumed even 5-7 days after the expiration date.

Precaution: check the texture, smell and taste well. If anything seems abnormal, better not to risk it.

2. Dry pasta - YOU CAN EAT it (with precautions)

Dry pasta contains no water, so it can last months (sometimes even years!) beyond the expiration date if stored in a cool, dry place.

Precaution: check the package for moths or traces of mold.

3. Cookies and Crackers - YOU CAN EAT.

If stored in an airtight container, cookies and crackers can be eaten even weeks after expiration, although they may lose their crispness.

Precaution: avoid those with cream or dairy fillings.

4. Eggs - YOU CAN EAT them (after getting tested).

Eggs can still be good for up to 3 weeks beyond the expiration date if stored in the refrigerator. Do the water test: if they float, throw them away; if they sink, they are still good.

Precaution: do not consume them raw if they are close to expiration.

5. Aged cheeses - CAN BE EATEN (with precise cutting)

Hard, aged cheeses (such as parmesan or pecorino) can be eaten even after expiration if they do not have widespread mold.

Precaution: if you notice mold, remove at least 1 cm around it, preventing it from getting inside.

1. Raw Meat - TO BE THROWN OUT NOW.

Deteriorated raw meat can cause serious intoxication. After the expiration date, it should always be discarded, even if it appears to be in good condition.

2. Fresh Fish - MUST BE THROWN OUT NOW.

Fish has a very high perishability. Even one day past the expiration date can make it dangerous to eat.

3. Salad in a bag - MUST BE THROWN OUT NOW.

Once past the date, bagged salad can develop dangerous bacteria such as Listeria, even if visually it still looks okay.

4. Fresh Milk - MUST BE THROWN OUT NOW.

Milk is a highly perishable food. Even one day past the expiration date can make it unfit for consumption, especially if it has not been refrigerated at all times.

5. Fresh Unpasteurized Juices - MUST BE THROWN OUT NOW.

Fresh unpasteurized juices, often sold in markets or refrigerated counters, contain no preservatives and have a very short shelf life. After the expiration date, they can develop bacteria such as E. coli or Salmonella, although the appearance remains inviting.

Conclusion

Not all expired food is to be thrown away: labels often indicate only when the product is at its best, not when it becomes unsafe. With a little common sense and attention to the signs (smell, color, texture) it is possible to avoid unnecessary waste and make more informed choices.

However, when in doubt, it is always better not to take risks: food safety comes first, even savings.