I had unopened lunchmeat in my fridge, ate two slices and realized that the expiration date was two weeks ago? Am I at rist for food poisioning? and what can I do to prevent it?
by 
Anonymous
ANSWERS: 4
-
Expiration dates are not hard and fast. The lunchmeat doesn't suddenly turn bad on that date. If the meat looked okay and tasted okay, you'll be okay. But throw the rest away.
-
no.
-
You'll probably be OK. The 'expiration date' is the last date that the store can SELL the product. As such, that date has to have some leeway built in for the consumer to actually eat the product. For example, I have consumed milk that was about a week past the 'expiration date', and it was fine (although I try not to push the limits like that). Furthermore, said lunch meat probably contains preservatives that retard spoilage (and give you cancer, but that's a separate kettle of fish...;-D...). Try not to make yourself sick through the power of suggestion, and toss out the lunch meat if you're worried, but I doubt that you'll have any symptoms. Good luck. Sparks 'The Willys' lyrics: It started on a Tuesday >>>It must have been that lunch meat<<< I haven't been intimate And anyway, I'm careful (We know what you got, boy) (We know what you got, boy) (We know what you got, boy) Chorus: They call it the Willys They call it the Willys You shiver and shake You're doin' Swan Lake All over the place
-
If it looked okay, smelled okay, felt okay, and tasted okay - then you're fine. The date on the package is a "sell by" date for the stores. It doesn't magically turn bad the day after that. If you're concerned, then don't eat anymore of it.
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC