How long food can be stored and used after the "best before" date (best before) can be confusing to customers, so here are our recommendations for different types of food Reference Guide
- Canned soups and vegetables: 12-24 months. Once the best by date is reached, quality may decrease, but the food is still edible.
- Rice and pasta: 12-24 months. Once opened, store in an airtight container to extend shelf life.
- Flour and sugar: 6-12 months, transfer to an airtight container again after opening.
- Honey, jam, syrup: 6 months, then refrigerated.
- Oil: 3-4 months if stored in a cool place. If it looks cloudy, don't use it.
- Butter/Nut Butter: 3-4 months if kept out of sunlight.
- Breakfast cereal: 6 months, store in airtight container after opening.
Refrigerator and Freezer List
- Milk: Unopened for up to 1 week. Consume within the use by date. Can be frozen for 3-4 months.
- Eggs: up to 1 month. Consumption by date of use. Can be frozen in an ice cube container without shell for up to 1 year.
- Meat, chicken, fish: 3-4 days in the refrigerator, up to 6-9 months. If fresh, consume by date.
- Nuts: shelf life extended to 12 months in the refrigerator. Can also be frozen for 12-24 months.
- Seasoning: Most should be used within 6 months.
- Seafood: Keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and in the refrigerator for 2-3 months.
