Decoding the date: What lies behind 'near-expired foods?'
Nov 30, 2023
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Industry experts Niu Honglin, Xingyu, and Josh Cotterill delve into the appeal, ethics, and rise of near-expired food in China. They discuss the lack of standards, online platforms, combating food waste, and health myths including the truth about humidifiers and pear water. They emphasize the importance of seeking medical attention and proper self-care.
Close-to-expire food can be safely consumed even after the sell-by date and platforms/apps connect consumers with local establishments to purchase surplus food at discounted prices.
Proper use of humidifiers and consulting traditional Chinese medicine experts for remedies are essential for maintaining respiratory health.
Deep dives
Close-to-Expire Food: The Thrill of Last-Minute Deals
The popularity of close-to-expire food is on the rise, as consumers see value in purchasing items on the brink of expiry. Close-to-expire food includes a range of products, some of which can still be safely consumed even after their sell-by date. The market for close-to-expire food is booming, both online and offline, with platforms and apps connecting consumers with local restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets to purchase surplus or near-expired food at discounted prices. While some consumers are hesitant about the safety of close-to-expire food, stringent quality control measures, labeling requirements, and adherence to safety standards help ensure the safety and transparency of these products. Combining offline and online business models can also help reduce waste and reach a wider customer base.
Respiratory Health Myths and Facts
Common myths surrounding respiratory health include concerns about whether humidifiers can cause respiratory diseases and the effectiveness of traditional home remedies like boiled pear or pear water for cough relief. Improper use of humidifiers, such as not regularly cleaning them or using demineralized water, can disperse harmful microorganisms and minerals into the air, potentially increasing the risk of respiratory infections. While boiled pear or pear water has long been considered a natural remedy for coughs, it's important to consider individual health conditions and consult traditional Chinese medicine experts for appropriate remedies. In the Western context, misconceptions include equating a cold with influenza, when in fact influenza is a more severe viral infection with distinct symptoms. Other misconceptions involve exposure to cold and wet weather causing flu, and the timing of consuming water after taking cough syrup. It's important to seek medical attention if respiratory infections persist beyond three to five days or if symptoms worsen.
Tips for Buying and Selling Close-to-Expire Food
For consumers considering purchasing close-to-expire food, using common sense, educating oneself about specific food produce, expiry dates, and country-specific regulations can help make informed decisions. Attention should be given to quality control, adherence to safety standards, and labeling requirements to ensure the safety of close-to-expire food products. Combining offline and online business models can provide convenience and access to a wider market for sellers of close-to-expire food. Maintaining proper humidity levels and cleaning humidifiers regularly is essential for preventing respiratory diseases. Traditional remedies like boiled pear or pear water can be effective, but their suitability varies for individuals based on their constitution and should be used in conjunction with other medical advice. Seeking medical attention for prolonged respiratory symptoms and debunking myths about respiratory health are key to maintaining overall well-being.
We take behind-the-scenes look at the industry of close-to-expire food! Are near-expired foods a budget-friendly buffet for foodies or a scheme that businesses use to deal with the ticking expiry clock. From a seller's hustle to your kitchen – we're talking about the money, the ethics, and everything in between. / Clearing the air: debunking respiratory myths for winter warriors (19:52). On the show: Niu Honglin, Xingyu & Josh Cotterill
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