Can you eat expired cereal?
Quick Answer
Yes, but it may not taste as good.
Cereal past its expiration date is generally safe to eat, as long as it has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage. However, the taste and texture may not be as good as when it was fresh.
What Is It?
Expired cereal refers to cereal that has passed the ‘best by’ or ‘sell by’ date indicated on its packaging. This date is a guideline for stores and consumers to know when the product is at its best quality, not a safety date.
How to Tell
Signs that cereal may not be safe to eat include a stale or off smell, changes in color or texture, or visible mold. If the cereal has been exposed to moisture, it may also be unsafe due to potential bacterial growth.
Why It Can Be Risky
While eating expired cereal is generally safe, there are potential risks to consider.
- If the cereal has been exposed to moisture, it could harbor harmful bacteria or mold.
- Consuming stale or rancid cereal may cause digestive discomfort.
Safe Method?
To ensure your cereal is safe to eat, check for signs of spoilage and store it properly. Always keep it in a cool, dry place and seal the package tightly after each use.
Storage Tips
Store cereal in a cool, dry place.’, ‘Seal the package tightly after each use to keep out moisture and pests.’, ‘Consider transferring cereal to an airtight container for longer shelf life.