What You Need to Know About Food Expiration Dates – When to Eat, When to Toss (Spoiler: Most Food Lasts Longer Than You Think!)

Infant Formula

Federally regulated — don’t use after “Use By” date

Baby Food

Quality and nutrient levels degrade

Ready-to-Eat Meats (e.g., deli turkey)

Higher risk of listeria — follow “Use By” closely

Perishable Meals (e.g., pre-made salads)

Toss if past date — no second chances

💡 Tips to Reduce Food Waste

✅ Store food properly – Use airtight containers, keep fridge at 40°F or below

✅ Freeze it – Bread, meat, milk, even eggs (beat first!) can be frozen

✅ Label leftovers – Write the date on containers

✅ First In, First Out (FIFO) – Move older items to the front

✅ Compost – Turn scraps into garden gold instead of trash

❤️ Final Thought: Don’t Let a Label Decide What Gets Eaten

Food waste isn’t just about throwing things away.

It’s wasted money.

Wasted resources.

And unnecessary stress.

The next time you’re staring at a “expired” carton of milk or a week-old chicken breast…

Pause.

Check it.

Smell it.

Trust your instincts.

Because real food safety isn’t written in ink —

It’s written in sight, smell, and sense.

So eat with confidence.

Waste less.

And savor every bite. 💛