Why It Works
✅ Store dry goods in airtight containers
Keeps out moisture, bugs, and air
✅ Freeze bread, meat, and leftovers
Stops bacteria; preserves quality
✅ Keep fridge at or below 40°F (4°C)
Slows bacterial growth
✅ Rotate stock —use older items first
Prevents forgotten back-of-fridge disasters
✅ Label frozen items with date & contents
Avoids mystery meals
🌍 The Big Picture: Food Waste Hurts More Than Your Wallet
Every year, 40% of food in the U.S. goes uneaten—that’s $161 billion lost and a major source of greenhouse gases.
By understanding expiration dates, you’re not just saving money…
👉 You’re helping the planet.
❤️ Final Thought: Great Wisdom Starts With One Question
You don’t need to fear every printed date.
Sometimes, all it takes is:
A quick sniff
A moment of curiosity
And the courage to say: “Is this really bad—or just misunderstood?”
Because real health isn’t about rigid rules.
It’s about using your judgment, trusting your senses, and wasting less.
And when you eat that “expired” can of soup and realize it tastes perfect…
You’ll know:
You didn’t just save dinner.
You saved something bigger.
