Foods that never expire... or do they?

An ancient sweetener known for its longevity, archaeologists have found pots of edible honey in Egyptian tombs over 3,000 years old. Its low moisture content and high acidity make a poor environment for bacteria and microorganisms. According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), honey simply doesn’t expire.

Essential for life and timeless in preservation, salt has been used for thousands of years to cure meats and fish, preventing spoilage. If kept dry and sealed, pure salt can last indefinitely without losing its flavor or effectiveness…. However, some of its addictives (if used) can go bad.

A staple that could outlast its consumers, uncooked white rice, when stored away from moisture and other contaminants, can last for decades due to its low oil content, unlike brown rice which can spoil. According to the Utah State University, when properly stored it can store well for up to 30 years, though once you’ve opened the package, it’s best to use the rice within a couple of years.

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Legumes are for the long haul, but not forever. Dried pinto beans can last up to 30 years when stored in a cool, dry environment, without losing their taste. However, scientific studies show vitamin degradation occurs after 2-3 years, according to Utah State, so it is better to eat the beans than horde them.

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Sugar, like salt, absorbs moisture and deters the growth of bacteria and microorganisms, which is why it has been historically used to extend the shelf life of other products. When stored properly in a cool, dry, dark place, granulated white sugar has an indefinite shelf life.

When unopened and stored in a cool, dark place, pure maple syrup can last indefinitely, according to Maple Farmers. However, once it’s open it should go in the fridge. The Maple Farmers say that even if there’s mold, generations have been fine scraping it off the top since mold doesn’t grow within the syrup… however, the association also acknowledges that it’s not the 'proper' recommendation.

For thickening, today and tomorrow. As a dry powder, cornstarch will last indefinitely. According to Eat By Date, the only way it can go bad is if it gets wet. Also, the best way to store it is in its original container with the lid re-sealed.

Viengar’s acidic nature makes vinegar self-preserving and able to last 'almost indefinitely,' according to the Vinegar Insitute. Bottles have 'best by' date because their characteristics can degrade. But if you notice vinegar smells or looks funky or too strong, it can be used for cleaning.

According to Canadian Heritage Roasting, the shelf life of instant coffee can be anywhere from two to 20 years, though the clock starts ticking once the seal is broken. And while it may be safe to consume for many years, the quality does start dropping.

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Spirits that can stand the test of time have over 40% alc and stop aging once they are bottled. This means they don't really go bad. However, the Globe and Mail reports that they are best to consume within a year, though they can likely taste similar after 10 years. But once the bottle is open, it is advised to finish them off within a year or two. Members of the spirits trade also say that once a bottle is down to one-third full, it’s best to finish it off quickly.

Due to its high salt content, unopened soy sauce can last indefinitely, according to Eat By Date. Then, once it's open it can retain quality for 2-3 years in the refrigerator. However, peak freshness lasts three to six months after opening the bottle, according to Epicurious.

Non-fat dried milk (NFDM) is suitable for short and long-term emergency food storage, according to Utah State University. And despite some claims that it lasts indefinitely, the shelf life is generally up to 5 years. While nutrients may stay unchanged past then, vitamins and flavors can degrade. Utah State recommends evaluating each brand or packaging before using for long-term storage.

Hard to say, even harder for it to go bad. This British sauce dates back to the 1800s when the chemists Lea and Perrins accidentally made this sauce. It’s controversial, but some sources say its salt and acid content means it will never really go bad when unopened, though quality can decline. How long can it sit in your refrigerator door? Up to three years for best results, according to Does it Go Bad.

This clarified butter has a super long shelf life. Some companies say it can even last indefinitely if stored correctly and is unopened. The Times of India says as long as it smells and tastes fine, it should be good to use even after the expiry date. Due to its low moisture content and removal of milk solids, it can last up to three months on the counter and around a year in the fridge if already opened.

According to Men’s Health, dried pasta will pretty much keep indefinitely because of the low moisture content. However, it is recommended to eat it within a couple of years for the best flavor. Definitely more of a “best before” situation as opposed to a food safety issue. But of course, check old pasta for any signs of contamination before planning your spaghetti meal.

According to the USDA, commercially canned foods can keep "quite a long time," if stored properly. Acidic foods like tomatoes are best to use within 18 months and low-acid foods like meat and vegetables are great for around two to five years. But watch out for leaking, bulging, or badly dented cans; cracked jars or jars with loose or bulging lids; canned food with a foul odor; or any container that spurts liquid when opening — all signs of botulism, which can be lethal!

The USDA recommends eating home canned foods within a year. But… The Canned Food Alliance cites a 100-year-old can of food from a sunken ship that was tested as safe to eat.