i've got some M&S thick and creamy custard but it's past it's use by date...... | Mumsnet (2024)

FAQs

Can you eat custard past its use-by date? ›

Don't eat any food that is past its 'use-by' date, even if it looks and smells okay.

If custard has gone bad, it might develop an off smell or taste, change in color or physical consistency; you might see spots of mold on top. Its texture could become chunky, watery, or gummy, instead of the usual smooth and creamy consistency. These are all signs it has spoiled and should not be consumed.

2 Answers. Products like custard powder don't come with a use by date, instead they have "best before". To be honest I see no reason why if kept dry custard powder would ever be inedible. Especially if it is just the corn flour and colour mix.

There is no reason to throw away food that goes past its best before date, it is perfectly safe to eat and will often taste just as good. The government has actually considered scrapping best before dates to help prevent food waste.

Assuming the can was canned properly and has not been damaged, the contents are effectively sterile, because the food is boiled in the can after it's sealed. There might be some degradation in texture and taste, but in terms of food safety, they are effectively safe.

Sell-By Date: Refers to the last day a retailer can display a product for sale; typically a food is safe to eat for 10 days after the Sell-by Date if refrigerated properly.

(after home cooking) 3-4 days refrigerated or 2-3 months frozen.

Assemble the custard creams.

Sandwich with the remaining 12 biscuits, design-side out, on top, then chill the biscuits until the filling is firm. They will keep for up to 3 days in an airtight box.

Baking powder won't have an off smell or taste—unless it's been contaminated with something else. And it is safe to use past its expiration date, even if it isn't as effective. You'll just end up with a flatter, denser baked good than you would if you used fresh baking powder.

Store in a cool, dry place. Once opened remove remaining contents from can, keep refrigerated and consume within 3 days. Best before end: See end of can.

Can you eat cream after use-by date? ›

Not to worry, heavy cream can last anywhere from one to three weeks beyond its expiration date. It is important to note that opened heavy cream has a much shorter shelf life than unopened cream, so have a plan to use it up once it's opened.

Custards typically have an expiration date of 3-4 days when stored in the fridge, as bacteria can proliferate after this period, leading to spoilage and potential foodborne illness.

Expiration dates are also meant to have a bit of a grace period, as in the manufacturer estimates the expiration date a few days before it truly does become spoiled. This way it avoids any liability they have of selling spoiled food. So donuts are safe to eat one day after expiration if they show no signs of spoilage.

Once opened, keep refrigerated and consume within 3 days. Store in a cool, dry place.