Can I Still Eat Food That’s Outdated? What Do Expiration Dates Really Mean?

Admit it - we all know people that recoil at the sight of a food item that's even remotely near the expiration date. But do we really need to not eat something and throw it away just because of a date that's printed on the package? In other words, what do these expiration dates really mean?

91% of Americans throw away food prematurely, according to a report from the Harvard Law School and the Natural Resources Defense Council. 91%! That's a lot of wasted food and money.

So what do you need to know?

Here are brief details about common foods in your kitchen - with complete details available via the link below.

Eggs: Most eggs will last up to 5 weeks beyond the date that's printed on the carton. Let your nose decide. The best practice is to always crack your eggs into a different bowl than the one you're mixing in; A rotten or spoiled egg will usually look and smell bad.
Cereal: It's a dry product. Moisture will cause it to go stale fast. Close the package tightly. Usually, it will be good for three months past the expiration date.
Apples: Proper storage helps. Keep them in the refrigerator. Again, let your senses guide you; A bad apple will look bad.
Deli Meat: Not to repeat the same refrain, but look and smell any deli meat you think might be bad. Usually you can get a few weeks beyond the manufacturers expiration date.
Bread: Bread goes bad when it gets moldy. Consider freezing your bread to make it last longer.