What should be done if food is found to be past its expiration date?

Food that is past its expiration date should be discarded immediately because consuming it can pose significant health risks. Expiration dates are established to ensure food safety, indicating the point at which the quality and safety of the product can no longer be guaranteed. Ingesting food beyond this date can expose individuals to harmful bacteria or toxins that can cause foodborne illnesses.

While some foods might retain their quality beyond the printed date, in a food safety context, it is crucial to adhere to expiration dates to prioritize consumer health. Other options may suggest using, cooking, or donating the food, but none can ensure the safety and well-being of consumers as effectively as discarding the product that has exceeded its expiration date.