Why does food go bad? Discover the world of food expiration dates and the importance of the sniff test. Learn about the history of expiration dates and how to identify spoiled food. Explore the evolution of food preservation and distribution, and the truth about expiration dates leading to food waste.
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Quick takeaways
Different preservation methods like refrigeration, pickling, and drying slow down bacteria and fungi growth in food.
Expiration dates on food packages serve as estimates for freshness and safety, but sensory cues like smell also play a crucial role in detecting food spoilage.
Deep dives
Food Spoilage and Preserving Techniques
Food spoils when bacteria and fungi grow, causing unpleasant taste and potential sickness. Various preservation techniques like refrigeration, pickling, and drying slow down bacteria and fungi growth. Refrigeration inhibits their growth by creating a cold environment, pickling food with salt and vinegar makes it acidic, slowing spoilage. Drying removes water, preventing bacterial growth.
Evolution of Expiration Dates
Expiration dates originated due to increased urbanization and demand for more food information. In the early 1970s, expiration dates were added to help consumers gauge food freshness and safety. These dates are often based on shelf life studies and are best estimates rather than precise indicators. The lack of standardized regulations on expiration dates can lead to unnecessary food waste.
Understanding Expiration Dates and Food Safety
Expiration dates are not always scientific and can vary in accuracy. Researchers conduct shelf life studies to determine how long food stays fresh. Despite expiration dates, relying on sensory cues like smell and appearance can also indicate food spoilage. A balanced approach involving expiration dates and sensory inspection can help reduce food waste and prevent consumption of spoiled food.
Have you ever taken a big ol’ whiff of rotten milk? It probably smelled like dirty socks or stinky garbage. Blech! But why does food go bad, and how can we be sure that something is fresh and safe to eat?
Join Molly and co-host Rachel as they explore the world of food expiration dates — those little numbers and dates on food packages that help us figure out how old food is! Together, they’ll find out why food goes bad, listen to a rotten egg sing about the power of the sniff test, and learn about the history of expiration dates from Forever Ago host Joy Dolo! All that plus a treat for your ears — an all-new mystery sound!
Check out this food safety chart for more information on how long different types of foods typically stay fresh in the fridge or freezer.
Today’s episode is sponsored by: - Sitkaseafoodmarket.com - Use promo code Molly35 to receive $35 off your first order. - Indeed.com/brainson - Receive a $75 sponsored job credit with code brainson - Poshpeanut.com/brainson - Receive 20% off your first order
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