Food expiration dates don’t have much science behind them – a food safety researcher explains another way to know what’s too old to eat
Food expiration dates often lack scientific rigor, leading to confusion about what is truly safe to consume. A food safety researcher suggests alternative methods for determining food freshness, such as sensory evaluation—using sight, smell, and taste—rather than relying solely on printed dates. In a different context, the origins of various famous city nicknames reveal intriguing stories, like how New York earned the title "The Big Apple," reflecting its vibrant culture and history.
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Understanding Food Expiration Dates and Ensuring Safe Consumption
Many consumers rely heavily on food expiration dates when determining if a product is still safe to eat. However, these dates often lack scientific backing and can sometimes be misleading. As a result, it's important to be informed about other ways to assess food safety. Expiration dates, including "sell by," "use by," and "best before" marks, are typically set by manufacturers to indicate peak quality rather than safety. They are often based on factors like expected shelf life and consumer expectations, rather than rigorous scientific testing.
To ensure food safety, it's crucial to understand other indicators of spoilage. Look for changes in texture, color, and smell as potential signs that food has gone bad. For instance, if milk smells sour or if meat has a slimy texture, it's best to discard these items. Additionally, proper storage and handling play significant roles in prolonging the freshness and safety of food. Keeping perishable items refrigerated and following food safety practices can help prevent spoilage and foodborne illnesses. By being aware of these factors, consumers can make more informed decisions about when food is truly too old to eat.