Expiration dates on food packaging are typically super tiny and often printed with low contrast. So how can you tell if that yogurt in the fridge is still good?
5 ways to make sure your food is safe
1. Label your groceries right away.
Simple systems—like rubber bands on certain jars, large print or talking labels, or organizing by shelf—can make a big difference. Apps like Seeing AI for scanning barcodes can help you identify each product.
2. Get familiar with storage guidelines.
Certain foods last longer than others. Eggs can often be used safely for weeks after purchase, while deli meat and fresh fish spoil much faster. Create a chart you can check or use a voice assistant for quick reminders.
3. Organize by date and category.
Keep newer items toward the back and older ones up front. Use baskets or bins to separate meats, produce, and leftovers. And do what you can to avoid mystery items hiding in the back.
4. Trust your senses.
Trust your nose and fingers. If something smells even a tiny bit sour or smelly, has a slimy texture, or feels, smells, or tastes off in any way, don’t hesitate: When in doubt, toss it out.
5. Use technology for expiration reminders.
Apps like Zuzanka for iOS or for Android can scan food packaging and alert you to expiration dates. And if you need an extra set of eyes to check the appearance of the food, apps like Be My Eyes and Aira can connect you with someone who can help via a video call.
Combining helpful habits with simple tools lets you feel sure your food is safe.
Support for cooking with vision loss
Join What’s Cooking, Hadley’s monthly discussion group, to connect with fellow home cooks and share tips, recipes, and helpful hacks.
More practical help
If you have an iPhone, Hadley’s workshop Siri for Reminders shows you how to get Siri to help you keep track of expiration dates. Alexa can help, too! If you use an Amazon Echo device, check out the workshop Alexa: Lists and Reminders.
And you can hear more about live help via smartphone apps in the Hadley Presents episodes Be My Eyes: A Free Smart Phone App for Vision Loss and The Aira App: On Demand, Expert Assistance.
Hadley’s podcasts are also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, as well as by phone: 847-558-1317.
What do you do to help make sure your food is safe and to avoid waste?