6 Foods You Should Never Eat After Their Expiry Date: What You Need to Know

We’ve all been there—standing in front of the fridge, wondering if that package of deli meat or those eggs are still safe to eat after their expiry date. In our busy lives, it’s tempting to ignore those little labels and go on with our day. However, knowing the risks involved with consuming expired food is crucial. While some items can last beyond their “best before” dates, others can pose serious health risks. Here’s what you need to know about expired foods and which ones should never be consumed after their due date.

1. Deli Meats

That slice of ham in your fridge might be a little past its expiry date, but you hate wasting food, so can you still eat it? The answer is simple: no. Even if it doesn’t smell overly bad, deli meats are highly perishable and can be a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria like salmonella, which can lead to food poisoning. These foods are especially risky for the elderly and pregnant women, where the consequences can be more severe. To be safe, always consume deli meat the day you buy it. If it’s been hanging around for a while, it’s best to throw it out.

2. Ground Meat

Fresh meat has a short shelf life, and ground meat is particularly susceptible to bacterial contamination. The increased surface area of ground beef or pork exposes it to more air, which means bacteria can multiply quickly. According to nutritionist Dr. Corinne Chicheportiche-Ayache, ground meat should be eaten within 12 hours of purchase, or it’s not worth the risk. If it has an unpleasant odor or has turned a strange color, it’s a clear sign it’s past its prime. Always trust your nose when it comes to meat.

3. Fresh Fish

Fresh fish should be consumed on the day you purchase it—or at most, the next day. If left too long in the fridge, it can spoil and lead to severe foodborne illnesses. Fish is another food that’s best eaten fresh. The longer it sits in your refrigerator, the more likely it is to harbor dangerous bacteria. The key is to look for signs of freshness: a shiny, reflective skin, bright eyes, and a clean smell. If the fish looks dull, has a strong odor, or feels mushy, it’s time to say goodbye.

4. Eggs

Eggs are often a staple in our kitchens, but they have a limited shelf life, especially once they pass their expiry date. Dr. Chicheportiche-Ayache advises that eggs are generally safe for up to 28 days after the laying date. However, once they’ve been on the shelf for more than three weeks, there’s an increased risk of contamination, especially if the eggshell is cracked or dirty. If you’re unsure whether your eggs are still safe, perform a quick “float test” in a bowl of water. Fresh eggs will sink, while older ones will float. When in doubt, it’s better to toss them.

5. Ready Meals

We all know the convenience of ready meals, but they come with their own set of rules. Most of these meals, especially those with sauces or dairy, should be eaten immediately or within two days of the expiry date. If you’ve missed the deadline, it’s better to be safe than sorry. The bacteria that can grow in these meals are more likely to make you sick, especially if they’ve been left too long in your fridge.

6. Cheese

Cheese can be a bit of a gray area when it comes to expiration dates. Aged cheeses, like parmesan, often improve with time, but some cheeses—especially those made from raw milk—should never be eaten past their expiry date. If you see mold, it’s a definite sign to throw it out, even if it’s a hard cheese. Other cheeses may still be okay a few days after the expiration, but don’t push it beyond a week. Always check for any unusual textures or smells.

Bottom Line: Trust Your Senses

While some food items can withstand a few days past their expiry dates, others require strict adherence to the “use by” dates to avoid serious health risks. To protect yourself, always trust your senses—look for signs of spoilage like strange smells, changes in color, or unusual textures. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always safer to throw it out than risk food poisoning.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll ensure your meals remain safe, fresh, and most importantly, enjoyable.