We’ve all been there – staring at a carton of milk or a packet of chips and wondering if it’s still safe to eat, even though the expiry date has passed. While many people simply toss the date on packaging aside, it’s important to know that eating expired food can pose serious health risks. Some foods are more dangerous than others after their expiry date, and here are 10 that you should definitely avoid eating once they’ve passed their prime.

1. Dairy Products (Milk, Cheese, Yogurt)

Why it’s risky: Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, are perishable and can develop harmful bacteria after their expiry date. Spoiled dairy can cause food poisoning, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Tip: Always check Foods the smell and texture. If it smells sour or has changed consistency, it’s time to toss it.

2. Eggs

Why it’s risky: Eggs are highly prone to bacterial Foods contamination, especially salmonella. As they age, the protective coating on the shell breaks down, allowing harmful bacteria to enter.

Tip: You can perform a simple “float test” to check Foods if eggs are still safe. Place the egg in water – if it floats, it’s no longer good.

3. Ground Meat

Why it’s risky: Ground meats, such as beef, chicken, or turkey, can spoil quickly due to their surface area being exposed to bacteria. Eating expired ground meat can lead to food borne illnesses like E. coli or salmonella.

Tip: If it looks or smells off, discard it immediately. Never eat Foods ground meat past its expiry date, even if it’s been refrigerated properly.

4. Canned Foods

Why it’s risky: Although canned goods have a long shelf life, they’re not immune to spoiling. If a can is dented, bulging, or leaking, it could indicate bacteria or toxins inside, such as botulism, which can be fatal.

Tip: Always check cans for visible damage before purchase, and never eat from a can past its expiry date, especially if it’s showing any signs of damage.

5. Packaged Snacks (Chips, Crackers, Cookies)

Why it’s risky: While packaged snacks may not make you sick right away, they lose their taste and texture over time. Expired chips, cookies, or crackers can go stale or develop mold, leading to unpleasant taste and potential gastrointestinal issues.

Tip: Always store snacks in a cool, dry place and check for unusual smells, texture, or mold before eating.

6. Soft Drinks (Soda, Juices)

Why it’s risky: Over time, soft drinks and juices lose their flavor, carbonation, and nutritional value. More importantly, expired beverages can harbor bacteria or mold, especially those that contain natural fruit sugars.

Tip: Check the date and look for signs of fermentation or discoloration. If it doesn’t look or taste right, it’s best to discard it.

7. Fresh Fish and Shellfish

Why it’s risky: Fresh seafood is incredibly perishable. After the expiry date, it can harbor dangerous bacteria like Vibrio, leading to food poisoning with severe symptoms.

Tip: Always smell fresh fish and shellfish before consuming. If it has a strong “fishy” odor or a slimy texture, it’s best to throw it out.

8. Processed Meats (Sausages, Deli Meat, Hot Dogs)

Why it’s risky: Processed meats, such as sausages and deli meats, are often preserved with salt or nitrates, but they’re still at risk for bacterial growth after their expiry date. Eating expired processed meats can lead to foodborne illnesses like listeria.

Tip: Look for any slimy texture or foul odor. If in doubt, toss it out.

9. Pre-Cut Fruits and Vegetables

Why it’s risky: Fresh-cut produce is more susceptible to bacterial growth because the protective skin has been removed. Once expired, they can cause stomach upset or food poisoning, especially if they’ve been improperly stored.

Tip: Always consume pre-cut fruits and vegetables before the expiry date. If they’ve become mushy or discolored, it’s time to throw them away.

10. Bread

Why it’s risky: Bread may not seem like a dangerous food after its expiry date, but it can grow mold quickly, especially in humid environments. Moldy bread can cause allergic reactions or respiratory issues if consumed.

Tip: Always check for mold before eating bread that’s past its expiry date. If it has an unusual smell or greenish spots, it’s best to discard it.

Conclusion: Better Safe Than Sorry

While it may seem tempting to eat foods past their expiry date, it’s important to remember that expired foods can cause more harm than good. Always check expiration dates, look for signs of spoilage, and trust your senses when deciding whether or not a food is still safe to eat. When in doubt, it’s always better to be safe than sorry and toss expired items to avoid putting your health at risk.