10 Foods that last way longer than their expiry dates

The Food Safety Inspection Service of the USDA states that "if the date passes during home storage, a product should still be safe and wholesome if handled properly until spoilage is evident". There is no regulations of these dates, so they don't let you decide when you should throw food away. So don’t stress out if one of below foods are past the date on label.

1. Extra-Virgin Coconut Oil

Extra-virgin or virgin coconut oil is high in saturated fat, so it can last an indefinite amount of time. On another hand, refined coconut oils have a shorter shelf life of about 2-3 months because they're lacking in protective antioxidants.

2. Honey

We all love honey, it carries antiviral and antibacterial properties. Another reason to love it is its near-infinite shelf life. It may get grainy, hard, or change color, but its properties protect the taste and keep it from spoiling. Soften hard containers by placing them in a bowl of warm water and stirring the honey until it melts.

3. Canned Vegetables

Canned vegetables usually last 1-3 years beyond the date mentioned on the can. But how can you tell if a can has gone bad? Check for rust, dents or swelling to let you know if it's time to toss it.

4. Packaged Bagels & Breads

Trying to extend the shelf life is not recommended for fresh bakery bread, but the preservatives in packaged bagels and bread allow them to last 1-2 weeks beyond the "use buy" date if refrigerated. They can last up to 6 months in the freezer.

5. Dry Rice & Pasta

Dried pasta can last for 1-2 years whereas dry rice is good for 4-5 years. The best thing you can do with your grains is practice first in, first out. Meaning reach for your older box of pasta or rice before digging into the new ones.

6. Condiments & Soy Sauce

As long as they are stored properly, many condiments can last 6 months-1 year, which is typically much longer than the expiration date. Specific examples include butter, ketchup, barbecue sauce, mayonnaise and vinegar.

7. Dried Fruits

Dried fruits, one of our long shelf-life foods, take about 1-2 years to expire. Want to keep them tasting optimal for longer? Pop them in the freezer.

8. White Vinegar

White vinegar, which is commonly used in pickling is super acidic. As a result, it's self-preserving, and its shelf life is "almost indefinite," according to the Vinegar Institute.

9. Salt

Whether you prefer table salt or sea salt, you can confidently sprinkle it on your food no matter how long it's been hanging out in your spice cabinet. When stored in a cool, dry place, it remains fresh indefinitely. The only exception to the rule is iodized salt, which only lasts for about 5 years.

10. Cornstarch

You might avoid recipes that include ingredients you don't use regularly. But if that ingredient happens to be cornstarch, you might as well just buy it. When stored in a cool and dry area, the thickener is safe to eat indefinitely.

Expiration dates are simply a measure of the last day a manufacturer will vouch for a food's quality, not a measure of its safety. Now that you're informed, you can stop throwing away foods to help you cut down on waste and save money. Always use your senses and best judgement when determining if a food is good to eat, they will tell you more than the "Use-By" date on the package.