Why is it important to check food expiration dates?

Checking food expiration dates is crucial for ensuring food safety, as it helps avoid serving food that might be unsafe for consumption. Expiration dates signify the period during which a product is expected to be safe and effective. Consuming food past its expiration date can pose health risks, as certain products may develop harmful bacteria or toxins over time. This practice is particularly important in food service settings, where maintaining customer health and safety is a top priority.

While freshness and aesthetics of food might impact customer satisfaction and perceived quality, the primary concern should always be the safety and integrity of the food being served. Checking expiration dates is one of the essential measures to prevent foodborne illness, making it a fundamental aspect of food safety training.