If it's a more brownish green it's probably gone bad. Still safe to drink but it tastes horrible. Comments are closed. Search.Drinking expired tea is more of a quality concern than a health one. While perfectly safe to consume, expired tea is no longer as delightful and potent as tea that’s well within the best-by date taste- and aroma-wise. Expired tea may also no longer offer as many health benefits as non-expired tea.Hey! I have some tea bags that are 10 years expired (I know lol). I've searched the sub already and seen people saying that expired tea is fine to drink, but that was in the context of tea that was a year or two past expiration, not 10. I was wondering if 10 is just too far beyond expired to be safe for drinking?Green Tea Bags – 8 to 12 months; Herbal Tea Bags – 8 to 12 months; Loose Tea – 6 to 12 months; Instant Iced Tea Powder – 6 months; Is it Safe to Drink Expired Tea Bags? Yes, it’s safe to drink tea past the expiration date, but you do have to be aware that it’s drier, older, and less flavorful.How long can you drink tea after expiration date? Good quality tea leaves and tea bags can be found for 6 to 12 months. Tea leaves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a year. Tea bags should be kept in a cool, dry place. Can you drink tea bags after expiration date? Tea bags last for a while after the best of times.How long does Arizona iced tea last in the fridge? Unopened bottles, cans, and PET containers have a shelf life of twenty-four months, counting backwards from the day they were manufactured. The beverage has a shelf life of 2-4 days if it is not refrigerated and 7-10 days if it is refrigerated once it has been opened.As with any food or drink item, once you open a pack of barley tea, its shelf life decreases significantly. Thus, it’s essential to consume opened barley tea within six months after opening. Storing opened barley tea in an airtight container will help preserve its freshness and aroma for longer periods. Advertisement.Generally tea, like other dry herbs, doesn't really expire, but may loose flavor and aroma. So while your tea bag may not taste great, it should still be ok to …For the best tasting effect, it is best to drink it within the expiration date. But the key to tea quality depends on preservation. Poorly stored tea can spoil even after the expiration date. Well-preserved tea can still be drunk even after its expiration date. In other words, expired and spoiled cannot be equated. Drinking expired tea has very ...Tea lovers drink green tea because of its delicate flavor and minimal oxidation, but most green teas have a shorter shelf life than other tea types. It is best to drink green tea by following the date stamped on the expiration date. If your tea doesn't have an expiration date, a general rule of thumb is to drink it within six to twelve months ...Jun 12, 2019 · Generally tea, like other dry herbs, doesn't really expire, but may loose flavor and aroma. So while your tea bag may not taste great, it should still be ok to consume, if the tea bag hasn't come in touch with too much humidity. Furthermore, moldy tea can also have negative effects on your digestive system. Ingesting mold can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as abdominal pain and cramping. These symptoms can be particularly severe in individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying gastrointestinal conditions.For the best tasting effect, it is best to drink it within the expiration date. But the key to tea quality depends on preservation. Poorly stored tea can spoil even after the expiration date. Well-preserved tea can still be drunk even after its expiration date. In other words, expired and spoiled cannot be equated. Drinking expired tea has very ... Proper storage can help extend the shelf life of tea bags. 4. Can you still use expired tea for cooking or baking? Even if tea has lost its flavor for drinking, it can still be used as an ingredient in cooking or baking. The heat can help reinvigorate the flavor of the tea, making it a suitable addition to recipes. 5. Will drinking expired tea ... Normally milo can last up to twelve months without any issues. But when you check the “Best if used by” date and it is due, you should probably avoid it. When it comes to milo beverages or tea, it is important to store it at a proper temperature to avoid spoilage. Always check for the “Good thru date”.If consumed after the shelf-life date, nothing bad will happen, but once it's prepared, your tea might not have any (or may have very minimal) flavor. The best way to store tea is in a dry and...Oct 31, 2021 · Conclusion. The direct answer to the question does tea expire is yes, tea will deteriorate and eventually expire. So in order to make sure your tea continues to taste great for as long as possible, you need to make sure it’s stored correctly. Different types of tea will last for different periods of time however, most types of tea degrade in ... In summary, iced tea does expire, although it may not become unsafe to drink beyond its expiration date. To enjoy the best quality and flavor, it is advisable to consume iced tea before it expires and store it properly in the refrigerator, away from sunlight and at a suitable temperature. Remember, if your iced tea smells, looks, or tastes ...Tea doesn't really go bad unless it is from improper storage. The only way tea goes bad is either from storing in direct sunlight, humidity (to the point of growing mold), or absorbing outside odors (like storing in laundry room). The only other problem you might have is with blended teas but in that case its more an issue of the things other ...We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us.White Tea. Although most teas have a lifespan of two years, there are some exceptions. "Some delicate or handmade white teas like bai hao, darjeeling silver needles, and oolong tend to have a shorter life span—about a year—as they are made from extremely young and tender shoots, with zero or light rolling," says Desai.It takes 2,000 tea leaves to make 1lb of tea. That’s a lot of tea leaves, and tea is a wonderful resource, not just for drinking. So don’t waste it! Instead, you can: 1 - Use the tea leaves as fertilizer in your compost bin. 2 - Put it in a pouch and place it in your shoes to absorb smells. 3 - Bake with it.The good news: No, coffee doesn’t really “go bad” in the way that bread grows mold or a banana slowly rots on your countertop. And drinking coffee made from old beans won’t make you sick, even if the expiration date has passed. (We can’t vouch for the taste, though.) One small caveat: Dry coffee grounds and whole coffee beans won’t ...Tea is one of the most popular beverages consumed worldwide, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. For businesses in the hospitality industry, serving tea can be a lucrative...White Tea. Although most teas have a lifespan of two years, there are some exceptions. "Some delicate or handmade white teas like bai hao, darjeeling silver needles, and oolong tend to have a shorter life span—about a year—as they are made from extremely young and tender shoots, with zero or light rolling," says Desai.The safety of drinking expired bottled iced tea depends on the type of tea, how it was stored and the length of time since its expiration date. Generally, bottled iced teas that are made with real tea leaves and are stored correctly will be safe to drink up to a year after their expiration date. However, if the beverage is made with artificial ...The Lifespan of Different Teas. Tips for Keeping Tea Fresh. Creative Uses for Old Tea. Does Tea Expire? Absolutely, tea can expire. Manufacturers typically set the …The popularity of bubble tea has been on the rise in India, with more and more people embracing this unique and refreshing beverage. As a result, many entrepreneurs are considering...What Are the Health Risks of Drinking Expired Tea? Drinking expired tea is like dancing with danger and could cause potential health risks like stomach discomfort, food poisoning, and bacterial infections. Stay safe and savor the fresh tea you’re drinking instead. Can Expired Tea Bags Be Used for Anything Else?I’m Zoe Miller, the tea lover and storyteller behind TeaTimeFacts. With a mug always in hand, I’ve journeyed across the globe, tasting brews from robust Assams to delicate Oolongs. Each cup inspires me to share the rich histories, traditions, and flavors I encounter. I’m more than just a blogger – I’m your friend sharing a mutual love ...Tea Leaf Life Span: Final Thoughts. Tea leaves can last a long time when stored properly, in a cool, dark and dry location. Non-oxidized or lightly oxidized teas can stay fresh for 6 months or more, while more heavily oxidized teas can last for several years.Yes, tea does expire, but not in the traditional sense of becoming harmful or unsafe to consume. Instead, tea 'expires' when it loses its flavor, aroma, and potentially some of its health benefits. Over time, the oils that give tea its distinct taste and smell evaporate, leading to a brew that may be more bland or stale.Like we mentioned, your loose leaf tea or tea bags will still be safe to drink in most cases but not at its peak flavour and complexity after this time. Overall, a general rule of thumb should be to drink your loose leaf tea within 6-12 months. Signs Your Tea Has Expired. Fresh tea typically has a bright aroma, sturdy leaves and a vibrant colour.Mar 12, 2024 · When you discover a box of tea that's past its expiration date, it's important to consider a few factors before brewing a cup. Expired tea doesn't necessarily mean it's harmful, but it might affect the flavor and potency. Shelf Life: Most teas have a shelf life of about 18 to 24 months. However, this can vary depending on the type of tea and how it's stored. Storage: Your tea's longevity is ... Tea can expire, but it takes a long time! This is because mold and bacteria, which cause food and drink to go bad, thrive in water. Tea leaves, when dehydrated, have so little water in them that they’re largely protected from bacterial growth. That said, tea eventually expires after 18-24 months. That means you have a lot of time on the clock ...The expiration date on the Twisted Tea packaging indicates the recommended timeframe for consuming the product at its best quality. III. Consuming expired Twisted Tea or any expired beverage can potentially lead to unpleasant taste, potential health risks, or a less enjoyable drinking experience.Oct 28, 2021 ... You can drink a Yerba way beyond its expiration date and the only thing you may notice is a weakness in taste if it was not stored properly.1. Type of Chamomile. There are two main types of chamomile used in tea: Roman chamomile and German chamomile. Roman chamomile has a milder flavor and a shorter shelf life of approximately 6-8 months, while German chamomile boasts a stronger flavor and a longer shelf life of up to 12 months. 2.The short answer is no. The date stamped on the bottom of your tea tin or tea bag box isn’t technically an expiration date. The Senior Advisor for Food Safety at …Sensory Check: Before using expired tea, do a sensory check for:. Odor: Musty or off smells are a red flag.; Mold: Visible mold means the tea is not safe to consume.; Taste: If the tea passes the smell test, taste a small amount.Lack of flavor or an unpleasant taste are signs it's time to replace your tea. Remember, while expired tea is often still …I’m Zoe Miller, the tea lover and storyteller behind TeaTimeFacts. With a mug always in hand, I’ve journeyed across the globe, tasting brews from robust Assams to delicate Oolongs. Each cup inspires me to share the rich histories, traditions, and flavors I encounter. I’m more than just a blogger – I’m your friend sharing a mutual love ...That means you risk food poisoning when you drink expired chai tea concentrate. If you suffer food poisoning from drinking expired chai tea concentrate, you are likely to experience flu-like symptoms, including an upset stomach and diarrhea. You also may have stomach cramps and a fever. Video of the Day.The expiration date on tea packaging is there for a reason, and it’s important to follow it to ensure that you are consuming safe and high-quality tea. What are the potential risks of drinking expired tea? Drinking expired tea can lead to various health risks, including food poisoning, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.Our matcha, for example, is given an expiration date of 2 years after it has been processed and packaged. Your time window of optimum matcha green tea powder freshness really depends on your matcha's storage conditions. Make sure to store your matcha in an airtight container somewhere dark, cool and consistent in temperature, and …Nov 2, 2022 ... 184.7K Likes, 1128 Comments. TikTok video from Autumn Acord (@autumnacord): “yes this tea is old n expired, i will still drink it #tea ...Signs of Expired Ginger Tea. Detecting expired ginger tea is crucial to avoid consuming spoiled tea. Look out for the following signs: Mold or Discoloration: Noticeable mold or discoloration indicates spoilage. Discard the tea immediately. Loss of Aroma: Ginger tea loses its characteristic aroma as it ages.1. Type of Chamomile. There are two main types of chamomile used in tea: Roman chamomile and German chamomile. Roman chamomile has a milder flavor and a shorter shelf life of approximately 6-8 months, while German chamomile boasts a stronger flavor and a longer shelf life of up to 12 months. 2.In summary, iced tea does expire, although it may not become unsafe to drink beyond its expiration date. To enjoy the best quality and flavor, it is advisable to consume iced tea before it expires and store it properly in the refrigerator, away from sunlight and at a suitable temperature. Remember, if your iced tea smells, looks, or tastes ... Herbal tea can expire when there are added ingredients like berries and flavoring that can get old. An exception is pu-erh, a fermented tea that will only get better with age. Most well kept pu-erhs are aged for 2-10 years, but some can be up to 50 years old! The simple answer is yes, and tea bags can go wrong. They can be used for one to two years past their expiration date offered they were stored adequately. As they age, tea bags may dry out and lose taste. Unless exposed to bugs, sunlight, or moisture, they do not go bad very soon.We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us.What Happens If You Drink Expired Tea? Drinking expired tea can have a range of effects on your body. In general, drinking expired tea is not recommended, as it may contain toxins or bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Expired tea can also contain mold, which is especially dangerous for people with a weakened immune system.Can I drink expired herbal tea? As a general rule, brewed herbal tea made from tea bags past their best-by date will be fine to consume. However, once brewed, …Expired iced teas can cause you to become sick in the event of a weird smell, color or flavor. The date that appears on the Pure Leaf bottle Pure Leaf is the ‘best of’ date. we do not recommend drinking the tea after the date on the bottle whether it is opened or not. The secret to prolonging the life of your tea is to ensure it is stored ...The easiest way to tell if your tea is bad is simply to taste it. If it doesn’t taste right, or even if it doesn’t taste good, don’t hesitate to toss it. That said, you can also safely keep drinking it, if you prefer not to waste it. The best thing to do with it may be to use it in other drinks, where you don’t taste the green tea much.You Can Still Drink Tea After the Expiration Date | POPSUGAR Food. Food. Tea. Does Tea Go Bad? Why the Expiration Date on Tea Doesn't Mean What You …First, make a normal cup of tea. Then, let the drink cool to a temperature that will not hurt your skin when applied. Lastly, put the cooled tea into a spray or squeeze bottle and label it. The concoction can be applied to your skin directly with the spray bottle or applied with a cotton pad or cotton ball.Apr 2, 2024 · Consuming expired Tazo tea may pose certain risks to your health. As tea leaves age, they undergo chemical changes that can lead to the formation of harmful compounds. These compounds, such as ochratoxin A, a mycotoxin produced by molds, can cause adverse effects on your digestive and immune systems. 1. Can drinking expired tea bags make you sick? While drinking expired tea bags may not necessarily make you sick, the flavor and quality of the brewed tea may be compromised. 2. Can I still use expired tea bags for brewing? Using expired tea bags for brewing may result in a less flavorful and less aromatic cup of tea.The expiration date on tea packaging is there for a reason, and it’s important to follow it to ensure that you are consuming safe and high-quality tea. What are the potential risks of drinking expired tea? Drinking expired tea can lead to various health risks, including food poisoning, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.Are you a fan of mushroom teas and coffees? These unique beverages have gained popularity in recent years due to their potential health benefits and delicious flavors. When it come...Drinking expired tea has very little chance actually hurting you. The worst-case scenario is that you may be left with a really bad taste in your mouth or an upset stomach. Generally speaking, tea can probably last several decades if stored properly.Apr 2, 2024 · Consuming expired Tazo tea may pose certain risks to your health. As tea leaves age, they undergo chemical changes that can lead to the formation of harmful compounds. These compounds, such as ochratoxin A, a mycotoxin produced by molds, can cause adverse effects on your digestive and immune systems. Tea can expire, but it takes a long time! This is because mold and bacteria, which cause food and drink to go bad, thrive in water. Tea leaves, when dehydrated, have so little water in them that they’re largely protected from bacterial growth. That said, tea eventually expires after 18-24 months. That means you have a lot of time on the clock ...Green Tea Bags – 8 to 12 months; Herbal Tea Bags – 8 to 12 months; Loose Tea – 6 to 12 months; Instant Iced Tea Powder – 6 months; Is it Safe to Drink Expired Tea Bags? Yes, it’s safe to drink tea past the …Jan 5, 2024 · Loss of Color: Fresh rooibos tea should have a vibrant red-orange hue. If it turns brown or dull, it’s likely expired. Change in Aroma: Rooibos tea has a distinctive earthy, slightly sweet aroma. If it develops an unpleasant or musty smell, it’s best to discard it. Taste: Expired rooibos tea may taste flat, bitter, or have an off-flavor. Frequently Asked Questions about drinking expired Twisted Tea 1. Can drinking expired Twisted Tea make you sick? Drinking expired Twisted Tea may not necessarily make you sick, but the quality of the drink may be compromised. It is always important to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming, such as a strange odor or discoloration. 2.4. Can you get sick from drinking expired tea? Generally, drinking expired tea won’t make you sick. However, it might not taste pleasant or have the desired effects. 5. Does tea have a shelf life? Tea indeed has a shelf life. While it won’t necessarily cause harm, it will progressively lose its taste and quality. 6. Tea Subscription Box. $21.95. Options. Organic Apricot Brandy Black Tea. $19.00. Size. How long does tea last for? The good news is that tea generally stays fresh for quite some time—around three to four months when stored in a bag and up to a year when stored in a tin or other airtight container. In order to maximize the freshness of your ... Mar 12, 2024 · Expired Tea/Expired Tea Bags Risks. Just because tea leaves and teabags don’t go bad doesn’t mean there are not some potential risks in brewing up old teas. The main risk in old, expired loose leaf tea or teabags is mold. The good news is this should be easily visible growing on the tea and occurs only when tea is exposed to too much moisture. The article continues after the image.) 3. All flavor and scent is gone from your tea. When your tea's completely lost its scent and flavor, it might be too far gone. Even if there is no mold or dank smell, you can be pretty sure you shouldn't be touching that tea. There's nothing left in that tea.Sep 21, 2020 ... If the matcha is simply past its expiration date, it will not hurt you or make you sick, in my experience. How Long Does Matcha Last Before It ...The expiration date is July 2018. The tea bags are individually wrapped in packets which might last longer. This tea doesn't last long in my house. I drink the ...Once the tea is expired both flavor and health benefits. Expired tea will have a dull flavorless lack. It will taste stale or “old”. Even tea that has been stored correctly will expire. You can drink expired tea but the experience may …Jun 22, 2023 ... Drinking expired kombucha can have consequences. Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage that is full of beneficial bacteria and probiotics.It takes 2,000 tea leaves to make 1lb of tea. That’s a lot of tea leaves, and tea is a wonderful resource, not just for drinking. So don’t waste it! Instead, you can: 1 - Use the tea leaves as fertilizer in your …White Tea. Although most teas have a lifespan of two years, there are some exceptions. "Some delicate or handmade white teas like bai hao, darjeeling silver needles, and oolong tend to have a shorter life span—about a year—as they are made from extremely young and tender shoots, with zero or light rolling," says Desai.Jun 17, 2023 · Furthermore, moldy tea can also have negative effects on your digestive system. Ingesting mold can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as abdominal pain and cramping. These symptoms can be particularly severe in individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying gastrointestinal conditions. Jan 31, 2023 · For this reason, it is best to consume green tea within six months of its expiration date. After six months, the tea will still be safe to drink, but it may not taste as good. Lipton Green Tea does not have an expiration date, but it does have a best if used by date for optimal freshness. Green tea is not usually dangerous past this point, but ... Nov 2, 2022 ... 184.7K Likes, 1128 Comments. TikTok video from Autumn Acord (@autumnacord): “yes this tea is old n expired, i will still drink it #tea ...The expiration date on tea packaging is there for a reason, and it’s important to follow it to ensure that you are consuming safe and high-quality tea. What are the potential risks of drinking expired tea? Drinking expired tea can lead to various health risks, including food poisoning, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.Yes, on a general note, drinking old tea is not something you need to worry about. However, as I said, the freshness, taste, or smell would not be the same. Although you sense that the flavor or freshness is a kind of change, it doesn’t necessarily suggest that your tea bags have gone bad. In order to be on the safe side of things, it would ...Welcome To Tea Perspective. Hi, I'm Jase! My tea journey began over 25 years ago, it was love at first sip! Tea, for me, is a drink, an experience, a pleasure, a health boost, a way to connect with friends & family, and ultimately a way of life. Happy Sipping! How to Make Peach Ice Tea – Easy, Fun RecipeSkip to content ...Welcome To Tea Perspective. Hi, I'm Jase! My tea journey began over 25 years ago, it was love at first sip! Tea, for me, is a drink, an experience, a pleasure, a health boost, a way to connect with friends & family, and ultimately a way of life. Happy Sipping! How to Make Peach Ice Tea – Easy, Fun RecipeWhat Happens If You Drink Expired Tea? Drinking expired tea can have a range of effects on your body. In general, drinking expired tea is not recommended, as it may contain toxins or bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Expired tea can also contain mold, which is especially dangerous for people with a weakened immune system.While properly stored, tea can remain drinkable for up to a year and sometimes several years. It might still be drinkable, but don't expect it to be as flavorful or aromatic as new …If the tea isn’t moldy, one way to perk up the flavor is to toast it like making your own hojicha. You can use a dry skillet. Practice is definitely important because it’s a fine line between delicious and burnt. I just cut into a vacuum-sealed pack of guricha from Tokyo that expired in 2015 and it was delicious, FWIW.
Sensory Check: Before using expired tea, do a sensory check for:. Odor: Musty or off smells are a red flag.; Mold: Visible mold means the tea is not safe to consume.; Taste: If the tea passes the smell test, taste a small amount.Lack of flavor or an unpleasant taste are signs it's time to replace your tea. Remember, while expired tea is often still …. Gilchrist county sheriff's office
Expired Tea/Expired Tea Bags Risks. Just because tea leaves and teabags don’t go bad doesn’t mean there are not some potential risks in brewing up old teas. The main risk in old, expired loose leaf tea or teabags is mold. The good news is this should be easily visible growing on the tea and occurs only when tea is exposed to too much moisture.White Tea. Although most teas have a lifespan of two years, there are some exceptions. "Some delicate or handmade white teas like bai hao, darjeeling silver needles, and oolong tend to have a shorter life span—about a year—as they are made from extremely young and tender shoots, with zero or light rolling," says Desai.Yes, tea bags really can expire, although they are usually still usable then, just have another color and taste (more about that later, though). Teabags can usually last for even as long as two years without any worsening, though, and storing them in airtight containers will even prolong this time. But after that, tea bags start to lose their ...What happens if you drink expired chai tea concentrate. Can you drink tea on a water fast. Can children drink kava tea. Can you use expired flonase. Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere. Talk to a doctor now . $44 video appointments with $19/month membership *Oct 25, 2023 · The expiration date on the Twisted Tea packaging indicates the recommended timeframe for consuming the product at its best quality. III. Consuming expired Twisted Tea or any expired beverage can potentially lead to unpleasant taste, potential health risks, or a less enjoyable drinking experience. No, loose tea leaves do not expire. But they do lose flavor, aroma, and color over time. However, they’re still good for consumption. In some tins of loose tea leaves there’s an expiry date for its best-by date, but not for the use-by date. Let’s look at what the expiry date actually is. Stands to reason that over time, old tea can taste ...The Lifespan of Different Teas. Tips for Keeping Tea Fresh. Creative Uses for Old Tea. Does Tea Expire? Absolutely, tea can expire. Manufacturers typically set the …The expiration date on tea packaging is there for a reason, and it’s important to follow it to ensure that you are consuming safe and high-quality tea. What are the potential risks of drinking expired tea? Drinking expired tea can lead to various health risks, including food poisoning, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.The answer to whether it is safe to drink expired tea is both yes and no. It all depends on how the tea was stored and how long it has been expired. If you are unsure, it is always best to err on the side of caution and throw the tea away. If the tea was stored in a cool, dry place, then it is probably still safe to drink.Freezer. Prepared Tea lasts for. 3-5 Days. 6-8 Months. Of course, all foods and drinks last for a shorter period of time if they are not stored properly. But remember that tea, like a lot of other drinks, usually has a best before date and not an expiration date or use by date.Sep 22, 2020 · The simple answer is yes, and tea bags can go wrong. They can be used for one to two years past their expiration date offered they were stored adequately. As they age, tea bags may dry out and lose taste. Unless exposed to bugs, sunlight, or moisture, they do not go bad very soon. Yes, you can still drink expired tea if it was stored properly. However, it may not taste as fresh as when it was first brewed. If the taste of the tea is no longer appealing, then you can discard it or use it for another purpose. If the storage bottle is damaged or opened, it is best to discard it.Here’s the quick answer regarding the expiry of green tea…. Does Green tea expire? Green tea mostly comes with a “best before” date of around 12-36 months. It should be consumed before this date. Beyond this date, it is still usable – but will gradually lose quality and flavor.When you drink expired tea, your body may react in various ways depending on how the tea has changed over time. Here's what you need to consider …Freezer. Prepared Tea lasts for. 3-5 Days. 6-8 Months. Of course, all foods and drinks last for a shorter period of time if they are not stored properly. But remember that tea, like a lot of other drinks, usually has a best before date and not an expiration date or use by date..