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Food Safety Issues/canned food
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Question
I used some canned organic pumpkin in a muffins recipe (they are baking 45 minutes @350 degrees). The pumpkin smelled and looked fine. The can said "best if used before 09/06." it's now 07/07. What do you think?
Hi Maha,
The "best if used by" date is a quality issue -- not a safety issue. If the can the pumpkin came looked fine -- not leakage, dents, etc... the pumpkin is fine to use. You may notice that the color is darker than fresher canned pumpkin and the flavor may not be as intense, but safety wise it's okay to use.
Carol
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | OMG, I'm so sorry I just found this "Rate the Expert" link. First of all, I was incredibly impressed at the timeliness of Carol Schlitt's response. And she provided precise, articulate information that unequivocally answered my query. Much gratitude Carol. You relieved my anxiety 100% about the food safety issue. And several hours after eating said item, I can "anecdotally" confirm the correctness of her response! | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Carol Schlitt
Expertise
I can answer questions on home food safety, sanitation, home food preservation and commercial food safety (HACCP).
Experience
I am a former Extension educator, nutrition, wellness and food safety, having retired August 1, 2010. I am a certified HACCP manager, a food safety instructor for the Illinois Department of Public Health and a 3rd party food safety and OSHA auditor of restaurants.
Organizations
International Association for Food Protection, American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (Certified CFCS), National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, St. Louis Culinary Society.
Education/Credentials
BS - University of Illinois
MS - Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville
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