Best before date These foods last longer than indicated

With correct bearings, foods are often more durable than the best before date
If the expiration date (MHD) of food expired, they often go into the garbage bin. Many products are, however, much more edible than the best before date. In an interview with the news agency "dpa" explains Ralf Diekmann from Tüv Rheinland, whereupon consumers should pay attention to the shelf life of food.

Expiration date of food is a recommendation of the manufacturer
According to a study by the University of Stuttgart, Germans throw away an average of 82 kilograms of food per year. This is equivalent to about two large, fully packed shopping carts. Not infrequently, an expired "best before" date is the reason why products end up in the garbage, even though they are still edible.

The shelf life of the food is very different. (Image: fovito / fotolia.com)

What many do not know - the best before date is only a recommendation of the manufacturer. Whether a food is still edible after this period depends on the product and its storage. "The best before date is a quality promise from the manufacturer. If stored correctly, the food loses nothing in quality during this time, "explains Diekmann.

The situation is different with the consumption date, which is stated on fresh meat or fish. "There should be no compromises," advises the expert. Because it can easily form germs that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort and poisoning.

Caution with thawed ice cream
For foods such as pasta rice or coffee, the best before date is printed on the package. Especially products that contain little water are usually much longer shelf life than specified by the manufacturer. "A chocolate that expires in twelve months according to the MHD is usually edible in 13 months," says Diekmann. Even yoghurt is often more durable if left in the fridge immediately after purchase. In general, consumers should rely on their senses for the shelf life of food. "If it tastes sour or mildew, you should not eat it, of course," says the expert.

Since the best before date is often only valid for unopened products, you should trust in his senses even when food has started. For example, ketchup and sweetened products are usually long lasting even after opening.

According to the Tüv, however, you should be careful with ice cream, as it is often used too long. By briefly fuming and again freezing bacteria can quickly form, which cause unpleasant gastrointestinal infections. If ice is bought in the supermarket, it should therefore be transported cool and consumed quickly after opening. (Ag)