Expired Food: How Long is Too Long?
While cooking, I needed a can of green beans, so I asked my neighbor if they had any. They sent over an old, expired can. “That’s all they had,” they said. I threw it out and went to the store, but it got me thinking: how long can something be expired before you’ll still eat it?
Generally, canned goods are safe to eat past their expiration date if the can isn’t damaged. However, taste and nutritional value might decline. According to food safety experts, high-acid foods like tomatoes and fruits can last up to 18 months, while low-acid foods like vegetables and meats can be good for 2-5 years if stored properly.
Always check for signs of spoilage like bulging, rusting, or leaking. When in doubt, it’s safer to err on the side of caution and replace expired items. Your health is worth the extra trip to the store!
