Here’s What You Need to Know About Food Expiration Dates

• Dry pasta and rice
• Canned goods
• Eggs (often weeks beyond the date when refrigerated)
• Yogurt and hard cheeses
• Frozen foods (can last months past dates)

Proper storage makes a huge difference in longevity.

How to Make Food Last Longer

• Keep your refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C)
• Store dry goods in airtight containers
• Freeze foods you won’t use right away
• Label leftovers with the date you cooked them

Small habits can significantly reduce waste.

The Bottom Line

Expiration dates are guidelines, not hard rules. Understanding what those labels mean can help you make smarter decisions, cut down on unnecessary waste, and feel more confident in your kitchen.

When in doubt, combine the date on the package with common sense—and your senses.