Don’t throw out food that is still good! I will try to explain how expiration dates work. First of all, it should say this food is at its peak by this date. We will not get sick if we eat it the next day or so. You have to use your own judgement. A year later, not so good! Here is a guide:

• The Sell by date indicates how long a store should display a product on its shelves. But foods are still flavorful and safe to eat several days after this date if you store them properly.
• The Best if used by date comes straight from manufacturers. The product will be freshest and have the best taste and texture if you eat it by this date. But this date does not refer to food safety.
• The Use by date also comes from manufacturers. It’s the last date for peak quality. After this date, taste, texture and quality may go downhill, even if food safety does not.
• The Expiration date is the only packaging date related to food safety. If this date has passed, throw the food out.
• Here are some guidelines for common foods we use:

• Milk is typically safe for two to three days after the use by date. Keep it in the back of the fridge, where temperatures are typically coldest.
• Butter will keep for two to three weeks after purchase.
• Margarine will last for four to six months after purchase.
• Eggs are safe for three to five weeks after purchase. Keep them in the back of the fridge, where temperatures are typically coldest, rather than in the door.
• Chicken, ground meat and ground poultry will last for one to two days after purchase.
• Pre-cooked poultry should keep for three to four days.
• Fish will last one to two days in the refrigerator after purchase.
• Luncheon meat is safe for two to three weeks when it remains unopened. Use within three to four days after opening.
• Dry pasta will last for one to two years after purchase.
• Canned fruits and vegetables will last indefinitely. However, that rule goes out the window if they’re exposed to freezing temperatures or temperatures above 90°F. And be wary of damaged, dented or rusty packaging.

Also, remember that if you freeze something, it will last indefinitely, even if not at peak freshness, taste or texture.