What's Happening?
As Halloween concludes, many are left with an abundance of candy and questions about its shelf life. According to Richard W. Hartel, a food science professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, candy does
expire, but not in the same way as perishable items. The expiration is often due to physical or chemical changes rather than microbial growth. Chocolate, for instance, can last about a year if stored properly, while hard candy can remain unchanged for several years if kept away from heat and humidity. Hartel emphasizes that while expired candy may not taste as good, it is generally safe to consume.
Why It's Important?
Understanding the shelf life of candy is crucial for consumers who wish to avoid food waste and ensure they are consuming safe products. This knowledge can influence purchasing decisions and storage practices, potentially reducing unnecessary disposal of candy. For the confectionery industry, this information can guide product labeling and consumer education efforts, ultimately impacting sales and customer satisfaction.
What's Next?
Consumers are advised to store candy in cool, dry places to maximize its shelf life. As awareness grows, there may be increased demand for clearer expiration labeling and storage instructions from manufacturers. This could lead to industry-wide changes in packaging and marketing strategies to better inform consumers.
