10 Expired Foods You Should Definitely Toss—And 10 That Are Still Good to Go

Discover which expired foods you should definitely discard and which are still safe to consume, enhancing your knowledge about food safety and storage.

1. Deli Meats (Opened Package)

Deli meats are delicious but tricky. Once you’ve opened that package, even the fridge won’t save them forever. Bacteria start to develop quickly, and within 3 to 5 days, they can become a health hazard. Check for any funky odors or slimy textures. Those are clear indicators that it’s time to part ways with your favorite cold cuts. Remember, safety first! Always prioritize freshness over convenience, especially with perishable items like these.

2. Soft Cheeses (Like Brie or Ricotta)

Soft cheeses like Brie and Ricotta are heavenly but come with a catch. They spoil rapidly and can harbor harmful molds and bacteria. Always store them properly and consume them before the expiration date. Notice mold or a weird smell? It’s time to say goodbye. Soft cheeses demand respect and careful handling. Enjoy them at their peak and avoid any post-expiration regret.

3. Leftovers Over 4 Days Old

Leftovers are a convenience we adore. But hold up! If they’re more than four days old, even the fridge can’t save them from harmful bacteria. You may love last night’s dinner, but your stomach won’t appreciate any risky bites. Always label and date your leftovers; trust your senses. If they smell off or look weird, toss them out. Prevention is better than the cure.

4. Pre-Cut Fruit or Veggies

Pre-cut fruits and veggies save time but at a cost. The exposed surfaces allow bacteria to thrive, making them spoil quickly. Check for any sliminess, off-putting smells, or visible mold. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to throw them out. Keep them fresh by storing them in airtight containers and consuming them promptly. Your health is worth the extra effort.

5. Opened Jarred Sauces (Especially Cream-Based)

Jarred sauces are a kitchen staple. But once opened, especially cream-based ones, they have a short fridge life. Separation, discoloration, or a funky smell? Toss them out. To extend their life, keep them tightly sealed and use clean utensils. An evening meal can turn into a nightmare. Keep those sauces fresh and ready for your next culinary adventure!

6. Uncooked Ground Meat or Poultry

Uncooked ground meat or poultry is a potential health hazard if consumed past its use-by date. Bacteria like salmonella and E. coli thrive in such conditions. Before cooking, always check for any off odor, sliminess, or discoloration. Your senses are your best defense. Enjoy your meat at its freshest, and always practice safe handling and storage.

7. Shellfish (Like Mussels or Clams)

Shellfish like mussels or clams are exquisite but highly perishable. If their shells don’t close when tapped, or they’re long past their date, they aren’t safe to eat. Consuming bad shellfish can lead to serious illness. Always ensure they’re fresh, and store them properly. Your taste buds deserve the best, so don’t compromise with shellfish that are past their prime.

8. Bagged Salad Greens

Bagged salad greens are a quick salad solution but can deceive with their freshness. If they appear wilted, slimy, or smell sour, they’re past their prime. Nod to your nose and eyes; they’re your best tools here. Proper storage and quick consumption keep them in the clear. Salad should be crisp and refreshing, not a questionable endeavor.

9. Cooked Rice or Grains (Over 4–5 Days Old)

Cooked rice and grains are staples in many kitchens, yet they have a short shelf life. Harmful bacteria love these environments, especially when stored for more than 4–5 days. Check for any strange smells or changes in texture. If in doubt, it’s better to be safe and toss them out. Enjoy your grains fresh and free from potential risks.

10. Infant Formula

Infant formula is strictly regulated for a reason—safety and nutrition are paramount. Never use it past the printed expiration date. The nutritional content can degrade, posing a risk to your baby. Always check the date and store it as instructed. Your little one deserves the best start in life, so keep their formula fresh and reliable.

11. Dried Pasta

Dried pasta is a pantry hero with a seemingly endless shelf life. As long as it’s kept sealed and dry, it remains safe and delicious well past its “best by” date. No need to fret about spoiled pasta! Keep it stored properly, and you’ll always have a meal ready to go. The convenience and longevity of dried pasta make it a kitchen must-have.

12. White Rice

White rice is your culinary ally with its indefinite shelf life. Kept in a cool, dry place, it stays fresh and ready for your next meal. Unlike brown rice, which contains oils that can go rancid, white rice remains stable. Its versatility and longevity make it an ideal pantry staple. Keep it stored right, and enjoy countless meals from this reliable grain.

13. Canned Vegetables or Beans

Canned vegetables or beans are your secret weapon in the kitchen. If the can isn’t rusted, swollen, or dented, they’ll stay safe well past the date. While quality may dip slightly, they remain edible. These long-lasting pantry essentials are perfect for quick meals. Keep your pantry stocked, and you’ll always be ready to create something delicious.

14. Honey

Honey is nature’s sweet treasure that never spoils. Even if it crystallizes, it’s still safe to consume. Just warm it gently to restore its liquid form. Its eternal shelf life makes it a must-have in every kitchen. From sweetening teas to drizzling on pancakes, honey’s versatility is unmatched. Enjoy this natural wonder, and rest easy knowing it’ll always be good to go.

15. Hard Cheeses (Like Parmesan)

Hard cheeses, like Parmesan, are resilient and can be consumed after their expiration date. If mold appears, simply cut it away—at least an inch around. These cheeses pack a punch of flavor and can last a long time. They’re perfect for grating over pastas or snacking. Embrace the robust taste and longevity of hard cheeses in your culinary adventures.

16. Frozen Fruits and Vegetables

Frozen fruits and vegetables are a boon to any kitchen. Kept frozen with intact packaging, they’re safe well past their date. Texture may change slightly, but they’re still perfectly usable. Whether you’re making smoothies or soups, these frozen delights are handy. Keep your freezer stocked, and you’ll always have fresh flavors at your fingertips.

17. Dry Spices and Herbs

Dry spices and herbs may lose potency over time, but they won’t make you sick. Check their strength with a sniff or taste test. They’re a staple in every kitchen, adding flavor to any dish. Keep them stored properly, and they’ll enhance your culinary creations. Though they may lose some kick, they remain reliable allies in your cooking journey.

18. Plain Yogurt (Unopened)

Plain yogurt, when unopened, often remains good 1–2 weeks past its date. Check for any odd smells or separation. If it passes the sniff test, it’s safe to enjoy. Whether for breakfast or a snack, yogurt is a versatile treat. Keep it in the fridge, and it’ll be ready when you are. Enjoy the creamy delight without the worry of spoilage.

19. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is a sweet delight that can last months beyond its date. A white bloom on the surface is harmless cocoa butter and doesn’t affect taste. Keep it stored in a cool, dry place, away from strong odors. Enjoy it as a snack or in baking, knowing it’s still delicious. Dark chocolate’s rich flavors make it a lasting pleasure in any pantry.

20. Bread (Stored in Freezer)

Freezing bread extends its life significantly. Thawed properly, it remains safe to eat well beyond its printed date. Whether for sandwiches or toast, frozen bread is a handy solution. Keep it wrapped well, and you’ll always have fresh bread ready to go. Enjoy the convenience and freshness that freezing brings to your bread supply.