Would you buy expired goods?

‘This product is best used by October 24, 2014.’ Have you ever wondered how the manufacturers decide on the best ‘date’ that products should be consumed?

Well it is more art than science, as some products have a longer shelf life due to their preservative content as well as other factors.

Milk and meat products in particular do not have a long shelf life although this varies depending on the process used on the products.

Most persons check expiry dates before they buy products to ensure they are receiving the best quality. Did you know though that products can still go ‘bad’ despite not passing their expiration date?

I have in the past purchased juices that were obviously spoilt despite the date stamped on the bottle that indicated it was still fit for consumption.

I think that expiration dates are guides, because  if years have passed since the product was manufactured then consuming it might have adverse reactions on your health.

What is safe to buy if expired?

Well it goes without saying that medications should be taken within at least a few months of the expiry date as they will lose their effectiveness. I also don’t like to buy expired milk products.

However, baked goods and chips usually have a high percentage of preservatives and so this makes them safer to eat, if they have passed the expiration date.

Recently, I saw an article which described the proposed opening of a new type of supermarket in America which would only sell expired goods at a reduced cost. The supermarket would offer these expired goods collected from other supermarkets to low income families.

I think it is a good idea as not all expired food is automatically unhealthy.

Do you think a supermarket like that would do well in Jamaica?

Would you buy the expired goods?

Let me hear what you think! Drop me a line below!

Teri Ann Renee Paisley

Gleaner Online Writer

Tags: expired goods, grocery