HOW TO FIGURE OUT EXPIRATION DATES
Dairy
Toss milk when it starts smelling sour, usually a week or so after opening. Cut away mold from hard cheeses like parmesan, but it permeates soft cheeses like ricotta and goat, so chuck 'em.
How to buy and care for great cheese
Meat and poultry
Discolored? Slimy? Smelly? Get rid of it.
Cuts of steak: What to look for
Produce
Dried-out is fine, but don't put anything with mold or a slimy residue in your mouth.
Get fresh! Our produce guide to what you should pick up now
Canned goods
Most have a shelf life of two years, but if it smells sour or funky once opened, toss it.
Our favorite jarred foods to zip up your food
Dry goods
Most last up to six months unopened. If you find weevils, it's time to restock.
See which dry goods make for easy meal prep
