Time for a Pantry Purge: Foods You’re Forgetting to Check
When was the last time you dug deep into your fridge or pantry? If you’re like most of us, chances are there’s a lonely jar of mustard from 2021 or a box of baking soda that’s older than your latest streaming binge. With spring cleaning season in full swing, it’s the perfect time to clear out expired foods and start fresh.
But what’s most likely to be hiding in your kitchen past its prime? Here’s a breakdown of the most commonly ignored and expired foods—and how to give your pantry and fridge a refresh.
The Foods You’re Most Likely Ignoring
Some items just slip under the radar—whether they’re hidden behind new groceries or left unopened for months. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
- Condiments: That fancy mustard you bought for one recipe? It’s probably still sitting there.
- Leftovers: Admit it—some things get pushed to the back and forgotten entirely.
- Fresh Herbs: That once-vibrant basil? Now it’s just a wilted reminder of good intentions.
- Lettuce & Greens: Buried under newer produce, greens often go bad unnoticed.
- Broth & Stock: Opened containers hiding behind last week’s milk.
- Yogurt & Sour Cream: Check the expiration date before you dive in.
- Specialty Cheeses: Great for charcuterie boards, easy to forget afterward.
- Jars of Pickles or Olives: You’ll find them…eventually.
- Root Vegetables: Potatoes, onions, and garlic can easily sprout or rot in dark pantry corners.
- Frozen Vegetables & Meals: Dig through the frosty depths—you might find some forgotten gems.
Keep reading: How Long Leftovers Actually Last
The Foods Most Likely to Be Expired (Check ASAP!)
Even if these items seem long-lasting, it’s worth giving them a second glance:
- Spices & Dried Herbs: They won’t make you sick, but they lose flavor over time.
- Canned Goods: Yes, even cans have expiration dates—especially that forgotten can of pumpkin puree.
- Baking Ingredients: Old baking powder, baking soda, and yeast can ruin recipes.
- Flour: Whole wheat and nut flours go rancid faster due to higher oil content.
- Nuts & Seeds: Those oils inside can go rancid—especially if not stored properly.
- Cooking Oils: Over time, oils like olive and sesame can turn bitter.
- Frozen Meats: A deep freeze doesn’t mean forever—check for freezer burn!
- Pasta & Grains: They seem shelf-stable, but even they have limits.
- Granola Bars & Snacks: Easy to stash away and forget.
- Nut Butters: Over time, even unopened jars can spoil.
How to Keep Your Pantry Fresh All Year Long
- Label It: Write the purchase or opening date on items to keep track.
- First In, First Out: Rotate older products to the front of your pantry and fridge. Learn more: How FIFO Can Help You Get The Most Out of Your Groceries
- Proper Storage: Keep nuts, seeds, and flours in the fridge or freezer for longevity.
- Do Regular Check-Ins: Set a reminder to review your pantry and fridge every few months.
Keep reading: How to Build Up Your Pantry and Mix Shelf-Stable Food with Fresh Produce
Time to Spring Clean Your Kitchen!
Spring is the perfect excuse to refresh your pantry and fridge—and Misfits Market is here to help you restock with quality ingredients that’ll last. Ready for a fresh start?