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It’s an age-old question that’s sure to spark a fierce debate: when should you pay attention to expiration dates in your kitchen?
A staggering 35 percent of food is not sold or eaten in the US, according to ReFed, a New York nonprofit.
That equates to 90 billion meals each year that cost $408 billion.
But much of this could be avoided if American households were less vigilant about confusing ‘use by’ labels, which campaigners say have little to do with actual food safety and focus only on quality.
The problem is compounded by the use of expiration dates that differ from expiration standards and are largely invented by manufacturers.
In the UK, most major supermarket chains have removed best before labels, but there is no similar initiative in the US.
So, from sugars and extracts that last forever to spreads that need to be consumed within six months, Dailymail.com takes a real-life look at all the staples in your pantry.
Honey – FOREVER
Honey can last a lifetime due to its low water content and acidic PH.
Honey is one of the few foods with an eternal shelf life.
In 1922, archaeologists found a jar of sweet spread in the tomb of King Tutankhamen after 3,000 years and, to their surprise, it was still edible.
It is protected against decay due to its low water content and acidic PH, which means it can be kept in your cupboard for a lifetime.
Similarly, vanilla and other extracts also last forever.
Peanut Butter – NINE MONTHS
Peanut butter can be left unopened for up to nine months, USDA says
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) states that peanut butter can be left unopened for up to nine months in a cabinet.
If opened, it should be consumed within two to three months.
Peanut butter is difficult to spoil due to its high fat content.
But once opened, it is exposed to microorganisms that can cause it to go bad.
Eggs – 60 DAYS
Eggs should be stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator, says the USDA
Eggs take a surprisingly long time to go bad.
Chef J. Kenji López-Alt recommends that they be consumed within 30 days of being packaged and 60 days after laying.
This can be calculated from the date printed on each box, which refers to the day they were packed, Lopez-Alt told the New York Times.
The USDA says that eggs are often safe to consume beyond their “use by” label.
To prolong their shelf life, eggs should be stored in a refrigerator at 40°F or below.
And the USDA recommends leaving them in the coldest part of the refrigerator rather than on the door.
Bread – UP TO 14 DAYS
The shelf life of bread can be extended by putting it in the refrigerator
Supermarket bread, which is often made with oils and preservatives, tends to stay fresh much longer than freshly baked loaves.
But in terms of safety, both can be safely consumed for up to four days if kept at room temperature.
To increase its life, it can be stored in the refrigerator, which can keep it soft for up to 14 days.
And the bread can be kept in a freezer for up to three months.
Oil – 18 MONTHS FOREVER
Oils can stay fresh longer if they are kept away from heat, such as a stove.
On average, oils go rancid 18-24 months after opening.
However, unrefined oils like olive, sesame, and flaxseed that are stored in sealed cans, like those used in restaurants, are virtually indestructible.
For all other oils, experts recommend storing bottles away from heat, so don’t store them near the stove.
PASTA – 2+ YEARS
Dried pasta can last a lifetime in theory, although it tastes best if eaten within two years.
Dried pasta does not spoil unless stored in humid conditions.
However, its freshness can deplete over time, which means it will taste best if consumed within two years.
Fresh pasta, made with eggs, should be eaten within two to three days.
Condiments – BETWEEN THREE MONTHS AND FOREVER
Mustard can last a lifetime, while ketchup will lose its color in a year.
Mustards and vinegars are unlikely to make you sick, due to their high acidity.
This means that they can technically stay edible forever.
However, on average, they will start to lose their flavor within two to three years.
Meanwhile, the ketchup starts to change color after a year, although it will still be edible.
The USDA advises that mayonnaise is safe to eat for up to three to four months after the advertised expiration date, as long as it is refrigerated.
Dried Spices – FOREVER
Spices are edible forever, though they lose their potency within one to four years.
Spices are possibly the last thing we’re tempted to throw out, and many stay in our pantry for years.
Dried spices are theoretically edible forever, though they will lose their potency after one to four years.
TV chef Martha Stewart recommends transferring spices to a jar with reduced air space to prevent spoilage.
Like oil, it is also recommended that spices be kept away from hot stoves, as they stay fresher in cool, dry environments.
Beans and canned goods – 18 MONTHS FOREVER
Canned goods can often be safe indefinitely as long as they are stored in a cool, dry place and do not go bad.
The USDA says that canned goods can remain safe for years, and some are safe to eat indefinitely.
Cans containing high-acid foods such as fruit should be consumed within 18 months, while cans containing meat and vegetables can last anywhere from two to five years.
Meanwhile, the beans can last anywhere from three to six years, while the soup is safe to eat for up to a year after it expires.
However, households are urged to be on the lookout for leaking, bulging, or severely dented cans that may pose a health hazard.