expiration dates, etc

[Sara]

I have read that many foods are still good beyond their expiration dates. Example-Milk and yogurt. I guess I'm a little confused by all the dates. I figure if I'm smelling the milk to see if it's still good, I should toss it. Why take the chance?

I'm picky mostly on dairy, but find myself weird on leftovers too.

Another example are the codes on canned goods. I had a can of baked beans and I knew I had it LONG time. Most people would think well it's canned and ok to eat, but I seriously wasn't sure exactly how long I had this can and chucked it.

What do you do with items past their expiration date?

[Darlene]

It depends on what the product is. If it looks & smells ok I would use it & do so promptly.
Here's some help with codes & such.http://www.a1usa.net/gary/expire.html
More info~ http://www.consumerreports.org/main/detailv4.jsp?CONTENT%3C%3Ecnt_id=384071&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=162689&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=333139

[homemaker carol]

If its canned, we will eat it has long as the can doesn't have a dent in it.

If its milk, I'll use it in baking unless its really outdated and then I dump it.

If its items like cheese (which sells really low at the local co-op store) I buy it and then freeze it.