What are the reflexes to adopt after consuming expired food? A doctor answers!

You have probably already been faced with the following situation: inadvertently consuming expired food. Don’t worry, there’s no need to panic, it can happen. But then, what to do? Asked by the Doctissimo websiteDr Gérald Kierzek has revealed the right reflexes to have if this situation happens to you.

The first thing to do is to take a step back from the situation and analyze the type of expiration date present on the product. Indeed, it is important to distinguish between a DDM, i.e. minimum durability date, and the DLC, i.e. the expiration date.

In the first case, for DDM, you risk nothing, says the doctor: “It’s a qualitative problem, the product may lose quality, but there is no safety risk”. You can find this indication on pasta, rice or even chocolate for example.

Concerning the DLC, the impact is not the same since it means that you are dealing with a microbiologically perishable food. Thus, bacteria can develop there and can cause a health risk. Certain bacteria are in fact dangerous for consumers, such as Listeria or Salmonella for example. The doctor explains, however, that consuming them one day later can be done: “Again, these are generally given with a margin of error. But they must be respected, especially for cold meats or creams.”

On the other hand, the expert would like to point out that: “The deadline applies to closed and unopened products.” Once the product is opened: “It’s two or three days max even if the date is still good!”

It is also important to rely on your senses and check the smell, color or even texture of the product in order to analyze it as best as possible.

According to the expert, it can happen that you eat expired food. Besides, there is nothing to worry about: “The risk is to catch gastroenteritis, called food poisoning, which will cause diarrhea and/or vomiting, but which will pass on its own”. Not pleasant but not dangerous for your health.

On the other hand, in fragile people such as babies or the elderly, it is possible to suffer from dehydration. That is why : “If the person concerned is unable to hydrate, it becomes important to consult to treat the person with rehydration solutions. On the other hand, antibiotics are very rarely prescribed in this case, only in the case of very specific bacteria.”

Finally, certain details should, however, alert you: “If your intestinal signs are accompanied by ophthalmological signs (such as seeing double), or neurological signs, consult without delay or even call 15”.

Also remember to look at product recalls to stay informed of possible health contamination.