Ask a Dietitian

Ask a Dietitian

"Diana, just a quick heads up to let you know we are still using your cookbook and the guys will often be heard saying what would Diana say about this or that....really good feed back... I made your potato salad and the oriental coleslaw on Sat. for a family luncheon and had rave reviews so thanks again."

Maeghan Henke
BC Hydro

The Shelf Life of Common Foods

February 19th, 2002

As seen on BCTV February 19/02
THE SHELF LIFE OF COMMON FOODS


  • Remember to write the expiry date for each product purchased
  • Always use the “first in, first out” principle
  • When in doubt, throw it out!Food Safety Info Line: 1-800-892-8333

    Website: www.canfightbac.org

    The Facts:

  • Bacteria multiply rapidly within the Danger Zone, which is between 40C (400F) and 600C (1400C).
  • Cooked food should never be kept out of the refrigerator or oven for more than 2 hours.When In Doubt Throw It Out!

    These are the lists of storage times for various types of food:

    FOOD FRIDGE FREEZER
    Bread 7-14 days 1-3 months
    Fruits
    Berries, melons
    Apples
    Blueberries
    Mangos
    4-5 days (after thawing)
    2 months
    10 days
    3 days (ripe)
    4-6 months
    Vegetables
    Beets
    Carrots
    Lettuce
    3-4 weeks
    3-4 weeks
    1 week
    Cheese 3-4 weeks
    Deli Foods
    Meats and sausages, sliced
    Chicken, turkey, sliced
    2-3 days
    1-2 days
    Cooked meat 3-4 days
    Vegan meat alternatives 4 days 4 months after “best before date”
    Poultry
    Chicken & turkey, whole
    Cooked chicken & turkey
    2 days (after thawing)
    3-4 days
    12 months
    Margarine 1-3 months
    Condiments
    Asian sauces
    Barbeque sauce
    Ketchup
    Mayonnaise
    4-6 months
    4-6 months
    6 months
    6-8 weeks
    Jam & jellies 6 months
    Juice boxes 8-12 days
    Nuts
    Unsalted
    Salted
    9-12 months
    6-8 months
    Oils
    Canola
    Salad dressings
    12 months
    see “best before date” or 3 months
    Tomato & pasta sauce, cans, jars 5 days

Watch for the Eating for Energy segment on BCTV’s Noon News Hour!