Every time I use milk, I look at the "Use By" date and I smell it, even if it hasn't met its expiration date. But milk, like some foods, are actually OK to use after that date, but how long can I really keep it before I have to put on the gas mask and rubber gloves? If you can't find the "Use By" date, look for the printed date--or go by your purchase date--and use these unofficial guidelines.
Source: Source:
http://www.eatbydate.com/
(If you want to know about food safety, visit the
Centers for Disease Control website.)
Fresh Eggs
Eggs, when stored properly in the fridge, are good 3-4 weeks
after the printed date.
Butter
Unopened, real butter, lasts for about month one in the
fridge. If opened, plan to use it within 2 weeks after the printed date. To
extend its shelf life to 6-9 months, store it in the freezer.
Fresh Oranges
These refreshing citrus fruits will last 2-3 weeks on the
counter, and 1-2 months in the fridge.
Fresh Apples
You know what they say, “An apple a day keeps the doctors
away.” So keep some on hand: fresh apples in the pantry will last 2-4 weeks and
1-2 months in the fridge.
Deli Meats
Fresh deli meats should be use 5-6 days from the purchase
date. If you buy the prepackaged deli meats, use it within 7-10 days after
opening or store unopened packages in the freezer for up to 8 months.
Bread
Breads from the bakery should be eaten with 2-3 days of
purchase, packaged breads up to 7 days. In the freezer: 6 months.
Cereal
Cereal is one of those foods that my Hubby and I don’t eat
regularly but we always seem to have boxes of it in the pantry. An unopened box
of cereal will last 6-8 months in the pantry after the printed date. If opened,
it will be good for 4-6 months.
Packaged Tea
I drink tea and always have an assortment lying around. Packaged
tea should last 6 to 12 months after the printed date and 1-2 years in the
freezer. I didn’t even know you could freeze tea!
Bubblies
Hubby and I tend to have sparkling wine and champagne on hand.
It’s a great go-to drink for drop-by visitors and brunch mimosas! Both will
last 3-4 years after purchase date, and if you happen to have vintage champagne
on hand, it will last you even longer—20+ years. So, stock up!
And Milk?
I use skim and the guideline says you should be able to use
it 7 days after the printed date. BUT, I’m still going to smell it and
hopefully the answer is obvious whether I go ahead and pour it into my coffee
or not!
