When it comes to food, expiration dates are a common concern for many home cooks and foodies (like you!). Fortunately, there are some foods that have a longer shelf life than you might expect. Here are 8 foods that don’t go bad as early as you’d think and should be kept on-hand for culinary emergencies!
Honey
Honey is a timeless pantry staple that never actually expires. This gift from the bees boasts a low water content and acidic pH level, giving it natural preservative properties that make it keep from spoiling. And while honey may crystallize over time, it can easily be restored to its original form by gently heating it.
Rice
There’s no grain more versatile and durable than rice. White rice, in particular, has an impressive shelf life due to its low moisture content (and fortunately is a starch that matches with everything). When stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, you can still eat that rice for several years. Have a stockpile of rice in your pantry to ensure that you’ll always have a reliable ingredient on hand for virtually every dish.
Vinegar
Vinegar is not only a versatile ingredient in cooking but also a potent preservative. Its acidic nature inhibits the growth of bacteria and other pathogens, allowing vinegar to remain safe for consumption indefinitely. Apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or white vinegar are all excellent for elevating the flavor of dressings, marinades, and pickles while extending their shelf life.
Salt
Salt might as well be a basic kitchen necessity akin to the kitchen knife or stove, so thankfully it doesn’t spoil easily. It’s actually a natural preservative that has been used for centuries to cure and preserve food. When stored in a sealed container in a cool, dry place, salt can last indefinitely.
Dried Beans
Dried beans are nutrient-dense legumes that have a prolonged shelf life when stored properly. Whether it’s black beans, chickpeas, or lentils, dried beans can last for up to 1-2 years in a cool, dry place. To ensure their freshness, it’s essential to store dried beans in an airtight container away from moisture and sunlight.
Hard Cheese
Hard cheeses like Parmesan, cheddar, and Gouda are known for their robust flavors and extended shelf life. Due to their low moisture content and aging process, hard cheeses can last for months or even years when stored correctly. You can help them stay fresher for even longer by wrapping hard cheeses in wax paper or parchment paper before storing them in the refrigerator.
Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that has an impressively long shelf life when refrigerated. Its high sugar content and antimicrobial properties prevent the growth of bacteria, so maple syrup is safe to consume for much longer than you’d imagine. Just remember to refrigerate it after opening so you can enjoy it for months or even years.
Dried Pasta
Dried pasta is a versatile and durable ingredient that can last for years if stored properly. Whether it’s spaghetti, penne, or fusilli, dried pasta retains its quality and flavor for an extended period when kept in a cool, dry place. By storing dried pasta in an airtight container away from moisture and heat, you can have reliable food on hand for quick and easy meals, even when you’re spent from a long day.
6 Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Your Knee, Hip & Back Pain
Inflammation occurs when your body reacts to foreign substances. While certain anti-inflammatory drugs can help eliminate inflammation, a diet change can help reduce inflammation and swelling. Here are six anti-inflammatory foods to help reduce knee, hip, and back pain.
6 Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Your Knee, Hip & Back Pain
Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items
Refrigeration prevents spoilage and may extend the shelf life of common foods and other perishable items. While we may innocently store some foods in the refrigerator, you may be surprised that you shouldn’t store all of them, as this may affect their nutritional value, taste, and texture.
Although refrigeration can help preserve certain foods, some items shouldn’t be refrigerated to maintain flavor and freshness. Avoiding these foods can ensure your food stays nutritious, fresh, and flavorful.
Here are 15 food items experts warn people never to refrigerate for optimal flavor and freshness.
Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items
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