How meaningful is the expiration dates on food?
I consider it a guideline, not a barrier. Sometimes the dates are intended to tell you when the food is the freshest, or will have the typical preparation. Maybe after that date the pasta would need to be cooked a little longer, or maybe the nutrients start declining after that point. Canned food you have to be careful with because it can contain botulism, which would result in a bulging can and possibly rust. If in doubt, I throw it away!
