Dry or low moisture products such as rice, dry beans or dry pasta last long past their expiration date if stored in a cool, dry place in their original packages. Canned goods are safe for up to four years after their expiration date, as long as the can is undamaged. Highly acidic foods and those that contain a lot of sugar or have been heat treated are similarly safe beyond the printed expiration date on the label. Acid, sugar and heat inhibit the growth of microorganisms that spoil foods.
Unopened jam is fine half a year past the expiration date because of its high sugar content; store the jam in the refrigerator once the lid has been opened. Unopened mayonnaise is also safe for 6 months due to its high acidity.
The pasteurization of dairy milk allows continued use a week or so past the printed expiration data. But any off odor or change in color or clumps indicate that the milk is no longer going to taste right. Unopened shelf-stable plant-based milks will generally be safe if kept cool and dry; their ultra-high pasteurization temperature and sterile packaging ensure long palatability.
Many foods are actually still totally safe to eat after their expiration date, although the quality of flavor and texture may degrade over time. For instance, older dried beans will take longer to cook. So when you do a pantry inventory, don’t automatically throw out items that are past their expiration date.
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