<p>Whenever we go out grocery shopping, checking the “best before” label or expiry date of a product is the accepted norm. It is always wiser to buy products with a longer shelf life in order to avoid wastage. In fact, the lockdown has also made us frugal about our resources so, we try to judiciously consume everything that we stock up in our pantry.</p> <p>But did you know some food items can be consumed even beyond their expiry date? The items may be past their prime in terms of colour or flavour sometimes, but they are still safe to be eaten, only if they’re stored wisely. So let’s take a look at what these immortal gems are!</p> <p><strong>Honey</strong></p> <p>Due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, honey is a commonly found item in every kitchen. However, if left unused for a long time, it may crystallize and harden. But despite this crystallization, it remains safe for consumption. To de-crystallize the honey, just place the container in warm water and watch it transform back to its original form. Interestingly, archaeologists unearthed some 3,000-year-old pots of honey from Egyptian tombs which are still perfectly edible.</p> <p><strong>Non-iodized salt</strong></p> <p>Salt, the must-have-tastemaker has more value than just satiating our taste buds. Salt helps to balance fluids in the blood and maintain healthy blood pressure, and it is also essential for nerve and muscle function. It even dehydrates bacteria, acting as a preservative as well.</p> <p><strong>White rice</strong></p> <p>Moisture is the main nemesis of white rice. So if it is stored properly, white rice can last for at least a year without getting spoilt.</p> <p><strong>Pulses</strong></p> <p>If pulses are exposed to sunlight from time to time, even they can be used for a long time. In fact, a study by Bringham Young University says that pulses retain their protein content over time, making older varieties just as nutritious as the younger ones.</p> <p><strong>Also watch: </strong><a href=https://www.editorji.com/story/powerful-pulses-great-for-your-kitchen-pantry-the-environment-1624522774336>Powerful Pulses: great for your kitchen pantry & the environment</a></p> <p><strong>Sugar</strong></p> <p>Like salt, even sugar works as a preservative and can last for years if stored in a safe and dry container. When sugar is left in the open for too long, it tends to undergo gradual liquefaction by absorbing moisture from the air. So, storing it properly is a must!</p> <p><strong>Soy sauce</strong></p> <p>Did you know that soy sauce is actually a fermented product? Its high sodium content prohibits bacteria from ruining it. However, an opened bottle must be stored in the refrigerator to avoid the oxidation process.</p> <p><strong>Vinegar</strong></p> <p>Since vinegar is acidic in nature, it is self-preserving. Although the colour might change over time, it does not affect the safe consumption of this acidic product.</p> <p><strong>Also watch: </strong><a href=https://www.editorji.com/story/this-is-how-your-body-tells-you-which-nutrients-are-running-low-1625310576104>This is how your body tells you which nutrients are running low</a></p>
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